The Oaks — Creating a Stimulating and Safe Environment
We are proud to have worked with The Oaks on their new state-of-the-art preschool facility here in Ashburton. When designing a preschool, every element plays a crucial role in creating a nurturing and engaging environment for young children. One essential aspect to consider is the selection of flooring and window treatments. These are the three outstanding products that we incorporated into the preschool build to provide a balance of aesthetics, safety, and functionality.
Flooring Choices:
Karndean Loose Lay Long Board:
Karndean Loose Lay Long Board is an excellent choice for preschool flooring due to its durability, easy installation, and realistic wood-like appearance. With planks that mimic the natural beauty of hardwood, this flooring option adds warmth and a touch of sophistication to any space. The loose-lay design eliminates the need for adhesives, making it simple to install and replace individual planks if necessary. Its waterproof and slip-resistant properties ensure a safe and low-maintenance environment for children to explore and play.
Jacobsen Eco Soft Carpet Planks:
Jacobsen Eco Soft Carpet Planks offer a comfortable and inviting flooring solution for preschools. These carpet tiles are not only soft underfoot but also environmentally friendly, as they are made from recycled materials. The use of carpet tiles provides versatility, allowing for easy replacement of individual tiles in case of spills or stains. Additionally, carpet tiles offer excellent noise reduction properties, creating a quieter and more peaceful learning environment.
Tarkett IQ Optimum for Bathroom:
Tarkett IQ Optimum is a resilient and hygienic flooring option specifically designed for high-traffic areas like preschool toilets. This flooring ensures longevity and cleanliness with its durable composition and easy maintenance. The non-porous surface and antibacterial properties help prevent the spread of germs, making it an ideal choice for areas where hygiene is of utmost importance. Tarkett IQ Optimum is available in a range of colours, allowing for creative design possibilities that can complement the overall aesthetic of the preschool.
Window Treatments:
Luxaflex® Roller Blinds:
Luxaflex® roller blinds offer both practicality and aesthetics in preschool window treatments. These blinds are known for their smooth operation and durability, making them suitable for busy preschool environments. Roller blinds provide versatile light control, allowing teachers to adjust the amount of natural light entering the classroom to create the desired ambience. Luxaflex® offers a wide range of colours and patterns, providing an opportunity to incorporate playful and engaging designs into the window treatments.
Motorised with Somfy (Multiroom Control):
The integration of Somfy motors with roller blinds allows for multiroom control, adding convenience and efficiency to the preschool's daily operations. With automated motorisation, teachers can easily adjust the blinds in multiple classrooms simultaneously, providing a consistent learning environment throughout the facility. This feature also enhances child safety by eliminating the need for cords or manual operation.
Sunscreen – Morena and Blockout - Zen:
To address different lighting needs, incorporating both sunscreen and blockout fabrics is essential. Sunscreen fabrics, like Morena, provide effective protection against harmful UV rays while maintaining visibility and reducing glare. This fabric is perfect for areas where natural light is desired while ensuring the comfort and well-being of the children. Blockout fabrics, such as Zen, offer complete light blockage when privacy or darkness is required, such as during naptime or audiovisual activities.
Selecting the right flooring and window treatments for a preschool is a crucial step in creating an optimal learning environment. The Karndean Loose Lay Long Board, Jacobsen Eco Soft Carpet Planks, and Tarkett IQ Optimum offer durable, safe, and visually appealing flooring options. Luxaflex® roller blinds with Somfy integration, combined with Morena makes life effortless.
