Safety and security are top of mind at the nation’s colleges and universities. Schools will reopen eventually and when they do, design will have to follow the dictates of the “new” normal to include smaller sized classes and gatherings and social distancing in social locations like libraries, resident hall lounges, and student centers.
Social Distancing design for the student lounge
School rules in the era of COVID-19 include guidelines for limiting the numbers allowed in social and scholastic gatherings and most now mandate social distancing. The student lounge, which is in resident halls, is a convenient place for study breaks and socializing. Design in this space is flexible and utilizes furniture that can be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. The furniture must be easily configured within the space to promote the social distance. Furniture on campus should reflect the student’s style of living and learning.
Social Distance design for learning center
It is difficult, to say the least, to be able to provide a true college experience during these uncertain times. Students are going to have to get used to smaller groups socially, when they learn, and when they study. Consider learning pods that act as a block for noise and other distractions but also discourage large groups. When the small groups gather to study and collaborate, they expect a functional and safe student-centric space.