12 Classroom Layouts For Any Educational Setting

12 Types of Layouts

Some of the most intelligent and popular classroom layouts include:

1. Rows of tables: Emphasizing the role of the individual while placing focus on the teacher, this traditional layout is most commonly used in high school grades and above. Appropriate for exams or intensive learning, all seats provide a clear view of the instructor.
2. Groups of tables: Encouraging hands-on learning and collaboration between students, the groups of tables is most appropriate for elementary and lower grades. While it facilitates group projects, this design is typically not seen in higher grades.
3. Horseshoe: Perfect for large group discussions, the horseshoe classroom layout creates a “U” around the main lecturer, and may be most appropriate for college settings.
4. Double Horseshoe: facilitating an abundance of students in a moderate classroom floorspace, the double horseshoe utilizes available space well, as more students can be placed next to each other.
5. Workstations: Historically found in media centers, the workstations classroom layout has become increasingly popular in traditional classrooms. Utilizing flexible and mobile furnishings, the classroom can be modified by students during the education process to better meet their self-determined needs. Or, instructor-led students can work at different stations depending on projects, activities, and other forms of learning.
6. Circle: With a circle completely enclosing the instructor, this design may be appropriate for demonstrations or presentations. Due to the large floor space required, the circle classroom layout is not as popular as some others, but in the right setting it can be highly effective.
7. Grid: Appropriate for settings with an enhanced need for academic integrity, the grid classroom layout effectively reduces cross talking, and is often used for testing centers or detention locations.
8. Corner Setup: Appropriate for group work environments, the corner setup creates “learning stations”, where students may move from one station to another upon the completion of tasks.
9. Conference Setup: Traditionally found in the education offices, the conference setup works well in smaller classrooms, especially with self-motivated students. This layout is especially effective in language labs, the conference setup can be adapted to larger class sizes but the students will not be able to face one another.
10. Computer Setup: While nearly all classrooms typically have computers, the computer setup traditionally has one computer available for each student, and the computer is the focus of the environment.
11. Large Group Setup: The room is split in two and the tables face each other, allowing students to work closely together. While most beneficial for group assignments or presentations, the large group setup can be used at any time.
12. Banquet: As with a traditional banquet, two groups of tables are set up to face each other, dividing the room in half.

Irregular classroom shape, entrance and exit door placement, ADA requirements, utility availability and access, flexible or changing classroom usage, and other factors can pose significant challenges when selecting the best classroom layout. The services of qualified and experienced design professionals is often an appropriate solution to such a challenging situation.

For experienced classroom layout design, and all your educational furniture needs, look no further than Saffe Furniture. Our team understands your unique situation, and has the tools and expertise to provide real, customized solutions. For an inspiring classroom layout that creates a robust learning environment, contact Saffe Furniture today!