Basic Room Design and Interior Decorating

At the Valeska Hinton Early Childhood Education Center in Peoria, Illinois, each classroom is approximately 31 feet by 41 feet (about 1300 square feet). A feeling of openness and light is maintained by large windows, 4 feet by 6 feet, with miniblinds. The windows are placed low so that children can see outside. Windows on the interior walls provide views into hallways and other classrooms within the village. Visitors can observe from hallways without disturbing classrooms. One door opens into the hallway of the village, and another provides direct access to the covered patio and outdoor environment.

The classrooms are equipped with an 8-foot by 6-foot built-in storage cupboard; a 10-foot counter with two sinks (one adult height and one child height); a child-height drinking fountain; a bathroom with child-height toilet, lavatory, and mirror; and a 10-foot by 7-foot storage closet. A 4-foot hanging cupboard with three compartments and coat hooks provides space for teachers' personal supplies. Adult-height coat hooks provide quick access to coats for teachers and volunteers to go outdoors with children.

The primary material for the furniture is wood because of its warmth, durability, and superior aging qualities. The classroom has neutral colors so the environment is not too stimulating. Floors and walls are a warm ivory. Casework (storage cabinets and sink) are a color accent. Doors are trimmed in the color of each village. Extensive artwork and brightly colored manipulatives add interest to the room.