2.Air Quality
Big window opening sizes and at different levels, provide varying ventilation options. Controls should be easy to access and use.
Where possible, increasing the ceiling height can mitigate air quality issues because of a larger classroom volume, but effective ventilation is still needed.
Mechanical ventilation may sometimes be necessary if window options are reduced owing due to noise or security reasons.
An air quality monitor in the room can indicate a problem to the occupants.
Air cooling (but not renewal) can mask poor air quality and create cold spots.
3.Temperature
Radiators with thermostats in each room give users better opportunities to dynamically maintain the temperature at a comfortable level.
Underfloor heating systems have merits, but lack of individual room controls and response lags need very careful consideration
For those classrooms facing towards the suns path, an external shading device is needed to combat unwanted sun heat.
4.Sound
Schools should be sited away from busy roads or neighbourhoods, or (secondary orientated to mitigate problems. factor)
Planning measures can integrate site features, such as embankments, to diminish the intrusion of noise. If these are covered with plants, then the noise can be further reduced.
Sensitive spaces, such as classrooms can be carefully separated from noisy areas using buffer zones such as toilets, storerooms or corridors.
5.Links to Nature
Where possible, the view through the window should be plentiful, (secondary providing a wide-field vision of landscape and green areas. ) The windows sills need to be at or below the childrens eye level.
A door directly towards an external play area can give pupils easy access to nature.mmm
