Diving a big space into three separate areas

last year

Hi everyone!
I’d love to get your input on how to best divide a large space into multiple working areas or classrooms.
I have 37' x 17' to split (the actual space is a bit bigger) and would like to split it into three separate workspaces (they don’t all need to be the same size—one can be a bit smaller). The space will be used for art classes, so it’s important that the setup also offers some level of noise control between areas.
Ideally, I’m looking for flexible layout solutions that allow me to reconfigure or open up sections when needed, depending on the activity. Do you have recommendations for noise-dampening partitions, sound-friendly materials, or clever layout ideas that balance separation and flexibility?
In addition to that, I'm also curious to hear ideas on how to upgrade the floor? It's pretty damaged and dark and I'd love a brighter option.
Thanks so much in advance—would love to hear everyone's input.

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Comments (5)

PRO
lisedv
last year
Can you post a picture of the room?
PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
last year
last modified: last year
Pics and an actual floor plan so we can see windows , doorways etc . Do you need srorage for art supplies , ? Waht kind of art ? Tables , easels ???? Info all posted here in a comment that is how you get help.
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mirjana_ladomery
Original Author
last year
Sorry, my internet was really spotty when I posted it. Below are the pictures of the space. I have a separate storage room for art supplies but I will need tables in those areas to fit up to 12 kids. The classes are Clay (air-dry), Crafting and Photography. I'm thinking that photographgy class could use the small space because they'll be outdoors a lot

As for the floor, it's concrete tiles but pretty damaged from the previous tenant who played around with candles and burned some of them, so it has these dark big spots.
PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
last year
last modified: last year
All the filagree on the windows must cast odd shadows which will be a problem for artists but maaybe the kids don't care . I think maybe some moveable dividers could work so that the spaces can change with differnt classes . The tables on wheels with casters that lock too.I think moveable is the best way to handle those very different needs and usually quite affordable too . The floor I think depends on if you are renting or you own the space ? The lighting is okay when the sun is shinging but horrible for a rainy day or night classes . The esay answer to the floor is vinly flooring that is just layed not glued so Tarkett is usually my choice for that type . Sound is not IMO going to be handled very well in the space and with kids really not a huge deal. This is kind of tables I mean .
Kendrah
last year
I have taken lots of art classes - some in places that serve kids during the day and adults at night. I took loads of art classes as a kid - some in huge spaces that served many different groups doing different things. I have many friends who are art teachers. And I attended elementary school in a public "open classroom" school build in the 70s. Here are some of my thoughts:

- Classroom management. That is really the only way to reduce noise in a kid space. Nothing you can do or purchase is going to be as useful as inside voices and times when kids have to be quiet so teachers can instruct and gives directions.

- I wouldn't physically divide up the space unless you are going to invest in drywalling rooms with doors. Moveable partitions and rolling cabinets do not effectively or substantially reduce sound.

- Large sound absorbing acoustic panels on the ceilings and select wall areas will be your best sound control. If they are too expensive google "DIY acoustic sound tiles".

- Some kind of bulletin board like medium on the walls to hang artwork and examples will be useful and sound dampening.

- Photography area near the door so the kids can leave to shoot outside without having to walk through other spaces.

- Clay in an area where you can set up drying racks that won't get bumped by passers by. Is that the area farthest from the door? Farthest from bathrooms?

- Great that the floor is messed up. It will get even more so and you won't have to worry about it. If I see an art studio with a clean floor, I think nobody is working or having fun in there. :)

- Use average folding tables with heavy plastic tops. You can reconfigure them regularly as needed. Ikea makes wonderful stools.

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