DESIGNING SCHOOL SPACES WITH PRECAST CONCRETE FURNITURE
08 Jun 2023
When it comes to designing school environments, outdoor furniture and landscape elements play a crucial role in creating a conducive atmosphere for learning, socialising and stimulating young minds. Well-designed outdoor areas that feature a combination of natural and manmade landscape elements can positively impact students’ well-being, imagination and social interactions.
Among the various material options available, precast concrete stands out as a versatile and advantageous choice to furnish school spaces, providing clear benefits such as longevity, low maintenance requirements, design flexibility and cost efficiency.
Known for its durability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, concrete is ideal for outdoor use. Compared to timber, which may rot or deteriorate over time and can cause unsightly staining from tannins, or steel, which can rust and become dangerously hot when out in the sun, precast concrete remains cool to the touch in any weather and is extremely resistant to rot, rust, wear and tear.
Schools are busy environments with limited resources, making low maintenance requirements an important factor in selecting options for outdoor furniture. Precast concrete furniture requires minimal upkeep as it is resistant to damage and discoloration, instead developing a natural patina over time that only adds to its aesthetic appeal. Cleaning of concrete is easily accomplished with mild soap, a stiff brush and water. Further protection can be added to concrete furniture via the application of a penetrative sealer post-installation, which adds an extra layer of resistance against stains.
Another benefit of choosing precast concrete furniture is the broad spectrum of design possibilities available. By experimenting with shape, size, colour, mix design and finish, designers have a wealth of options to create visually appealing outdoor furniture and landscape elements that can enhance the overall aesthetic of the school environment.
The modular nature of precast concrete furniture allows for easy customisation and configuration. This modularity also provides cost efficiency through the repeatability of moulds used, allowing schools to reduce expenditure and unlock significant cost savings. By using different configurations of repeating modules, designers can achieve diverse, functional spaces that cater to various needs while keeping costs down.
Incorporating precast concrete furniture and landscape elements into school environments not only enhances the overall aesthetics but also creates spaces that support the holistic development of students. From outdoor seating areas to interactive installations, the benefits of precast concrete furniture in schools are evident, providing a durable, low-maintenance, cost-effective, and visually appealing solution that fosters a positive educational experience for students.
SVC Products is a trusted supplier of precast concrete furniture for schools and other commercial applications. Since 2016, SVC has been involved in the supply of reinforced concrete furniture for multiple new schools opening in Victoria’s growing communities as part of the VSBA New Schools program.
To learn more about precast concrete furniture, contact the friendly team at SVC via the links below.