Furnishing


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A major concern in this classroom is the natural light which currently enters the room through 3 large window that comprise west side of the room. Morning isn't too bad but the afternoon is brutal and throughout the day glare and direct sunlight interfere with learning. Currently the windows are dressed with plastic pull down blinds that block all light when pulled down. Inorder to provide for natural light AND cut down on glare AND to black all light when needed the old blinds will be replaced with a dual system that provides a shade that filters light to prevent glare but still permits enough natural light to light the room during sunny days as well as a room-darkening shade for those times when students are viewing the screens.

This is a link to the catolog for FlexShade Systems from Draper. I selected this company because they produce a product To get rid of the institutional gray and make the room more interesting and inviting and to add to the positive attitude in the classroom, the walls need to be painted. I selected a palette that will support energy, focus, and peacefulness. Click to see the set of colors for the walls and trim.
 * meant to be used in institutional settings
 * fit the specifications of the user (our windows are not a standard size)
 * provide for both the filtering and blocking in one system.
 * available in colors that are compatible to creating a positive learning environment
 * fabrics and textures will help to soften the look and feel of the room as well as help to control sound.
 * may be installed post-construction or in renovation
 * view the product on page 3 of [[file:FlexShadeSweets05_final_web.pdf]]
 * page 25 contains the product specifications



The Teal Bayou blue will be used on all the casework and on trim around windows and doors. This color will contribute creativity and self expression.

Cherry Cobbler will be used on the teaching wall. The red will "inspire activity." Since it also can inspire aggression it will be used only sparingly.

Glorious Gold will be used on the remaining 3 walls. The yellow color cheers and invites risk taking. [|Click to link to article Feng Sui for the Classroom]

[|Click to link to article about color choice for the classroom]

I had originally planned to install draperies or curtains over the window so that the room could be darkened and the softness of the fabric would help to absorb some of the sound level created when students are working collaboratively. I have decided against that AT THIS TIME since I found the Draper Flex Shades. Since they are textured and fabric, I want to see how they work before adding anything else.


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