How to Create the Perfect School Canteen

How to create the perfect school canteen

Creating a perfect school canteen involves more than just providing a place for students and staff to eat. It's about designing a space that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances wellbeing. At AJ Products, we have extensive experience in planning educational settings, including school cafeterias. Here are some expert tips to help you create an ideal dining space for your school.

Design a Calm and Relaxing Atmosphere

A school canteen should be a place where students can unwind and enjoy their meals. High noise levels and an uncomfortable atmosphere can deter students from eating properly. Therefore, designing a canteen that feels peaceful and inviting is crucial.
people in canteen
Canteen chair AVE 
£67.00
Skolelever äter mat vid ett runt matsalsbord med 5 stolar
Table PLURAL
£349.00

Create Smaller Zones for Enhanced Wellbeing

Dividing the Space

Breaking the canteen into smaller, more intimate areas can make the environment feel less overwhelming. Use wall screens, plants, and different furniture arrangements to create these "rooms" within the room.

Colour and Lighting

Balanced Colour Scheme: Avoid letting one colour dominate. Use lighter colours to create a calm atmosphere.
Optimal Lighting: Add ceiling lamps above tables to improve lighting and create a cosy feel.
"School cafeteria where students eat lunch
Chair LINUS
£135.00
Dining room with round pillar tables and colorful chairs
Chair RIO
£72.50

Reduce Noise Levels

Soundproofing Solutions

High noise levels can be a major issue in school canteens. Implement soundproofing measures to create a quieter environment.

Sound Absorbent Panels: Install panels to reduce noise. The thick fabric helps contain sound within specific areas.
Felt Pads on Chair Legs: Reduce the noise of chairs scraping against the floor by adding felt pads.



 Learn more about soundproofing in schools

Make the Canteen a Flexible Space

A school canteen doesn't have to be just a dining area. Use it for assemblies, staff meetings, or a hangout space during breaks. Keeping the canteen open in the evenings or weekends for local events can also maximise its use.

Conclusion

Designing the perfect school canteen requires attention to detail and a focus on creating a calm, functional, and flexible space. By choosing the right furniture, managing noise levels, and making the space adaptable for various uses, you can create a canteen that enhances the wellbeing of students and staff.

FAQ

A perfect school canteen is one that provides a relaxing and comfortable environment, reduces noise levels, and is flexible enough to be used for multiple purposes.
Implement soundproofing measures like installing sound absorbent panels and adding felt pads to chair legs to reduce noise levels.
Yes, a school canteen can be used for assemblies, staff meetings, or as a hangout space during breaks. It can also be opened in the evenings or weekends for local events.