Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

Designing Flexible, Inclusive Learning Spaces with Purposeful Flooring

  • 03/12/26

Mannington Commercial leaders Cindy Kaufman and Roby Isaac discuss how their “Crafted with Purpose” design philosophy informs products for education environments from K–12 through higher ed, with an emphasis on domestic manufacturing, sustainability, and performance. They highlight two major priorities in educational design: flexibility to support multiple learning modes (traditional instruction, small-group work, individual focus, and hands-on STEM/STEAM activities) and designing for neurodiversity by enabling learners to control and adapt their space. They explain how flooring contributes through wayfinding and zoning to reduce friction and clarify purpose, as well as through acoustics, using carpet for sound dampening, comfort, and aesthetics. They also describe Mannington’s Design Solutions team, which creates floor plate layouts using modular products to help designers achieve intent, and encourage a holistic approach that includes research on neurodiversity and biophilic design.

00:00 Meet Mannington Leaders
01:11 Crafted with Purpose
01:41 Flexible Learning Modes
02:37 Designing for Neurodiversity
03:22 Flooring for Wayfinding
03:58 Acoustics and Comfort
04:56 Design Solutions Service
06:02 Holistic Design Priorities
07:03 Closing Thoughts

Additional resources:

Sponsored by Mannington Commercial

Featured

  • Full Sail University Announces First Student Housing Facility

    Full Sail University in Winter Park, Fla., recently announced that development has begun on its first student housing community, according to a news release. The university is partnering with Nvision Development for construction and long-term management of the facility, which will stand five stories and have the capacity for more than 570 beds.

  • Armstrong World Industries Acquires Parallel Architectural Products

    Armstrong World Industries, provider of interior and exterior architectural applications, recently announced that it has acquired the Colorado-based Parallel Architectural Products, according to a news release.

  • NWEA Report Recommends K–12 Natural Disaster Recovery Strategies

    The Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA), a K–12 assessment and research organization, recently announced the release of a new playbook for schools and communities recovering from extreme weather events, according to a news release.

  • South Carolina District Starts Construction on $50M Middle School Renovation

    The Aiken County Public School District in North Augusta, S.C., recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the $50-million renovation and expansion of North Augusta Middle School, according to a news release. The project’s funding comes from the 2024 renewal of a one-cent sales tax approved by local voters.