Ahhhh...
THE BENEFITS OF A CALMING ROOM BY MARY MOWAD GUITEAU, IIDA, IFMA
Perhaps more than ever, today’s students are stressed. They
are overscheduled, overstimulated, and overwhelmed. In a world full of distractions, events, extracurricular activities, devices, screens, and competitiveness, there is a lot of noise – literally and figuratively. Kids are overscheduled: going from the learning environment to extracurricular activities to sporting events where the level of competition is perhaps the highest it’s ever been. They are overstimulated: with smartphones, tablets, computers, TVs, and smart boards all fighting for attention, today’s students and educators have more ways to communicate than ever, which can mean never turning that communication off. They are overwhelmed: the pressures of high achievement, overcrowded classes, and disruptive behaviors can easily lead to a feeling of being overwhelmed, with no relief in sight. It’s all a lot to take in, and it can sometimes lead to an environment of stress and noise.
This rendering depicts a calming room which includes the elements of color, sound, materials, and nature. When direct views to nature are not possible, incorporating natural elements or imagery into the space can serve the same purpose.
HOLLY & SMITH ARCHITECTS, APAC