Student Well-being

Well-being means overall comfort and balance—it encompasses physical health, mental resilience, positive interpersonal relationships, and a sense of safety. For children and students, it is especially important, because the environment in which they learn and grow shapes not only their knowledge, but also their relationship to the world around them and to themselves.

A school should be a place where children not only learn, but also feel safe and want to be. Research shows that students concentrate better, experience less stress, and are more motivated to learn when they feel comfortable at school. On the other hand, an unsuitable environment—noisy, dark, or impersonal—can lead to restlessness, fatigue, or lack of interest.

Alongside teachers and classmates, it is the environment itself that educates children—a concept summed up in the term “the third teacher.” According to this idea, the surroundings have a fundamental impact on how children think, communicate, move, and feel. An interior that fosters curiosity, calm, and collaboration can significantly transform the school atmosphere.

For example, open classrooms that allow movement and teamwork encourage greater student engagement. Spatial division into zones helps children better navigate their environment and understand when it is time to focus and when it is time to relax. When children can feel at home at school—safe, comfortable, and at ease—it benefits not only them, but also teachers and parents.

Creating a school environment that promotes well-being means considering many factors that together shape the overall impression and functionality of the space:

Natural light and quality air – Daylight supports concentration, improves mood, and reduces fatigue. Good ventilation and acoustics are equally important—noisy environments increase stress and reduce the ability to focus.

Colors and materials – Warm, natural tones evoke a sense of calm and safety, while excessive use of bright colors can be distracting. Wood, textiles, and greenery make interiors feel cozy and human.

Zones for different activities – Not every moment at school is the same—sometimes there’s a need for quiet focus, other times for discussion or rest. Thoughtful zoning (learning area, relaxation corner, movement zone) helps both students and teachers work more naturally.

Ergonomics and flexibility – Well-designed furniture that suits different age groups and allows movement is essential. Flexible classroom layouts, mobile desks, or the option to sit somewhere other than a chair encourage active engagement.

Opportunities for personalization – When children can adapt their surroundings—bring in a picture, decorate the classroom, or rearrange the furniture—they feel part of the community. This strengthens their connection to the school and boosts their confidence.

A school that cares about the well-being of its students creates not only a high-quality learning environment, but also a healthy and inspiring community. A well-designed interior is not just an aesthetic addition—it is an active tool for improving the school climate, interpersonal relationships, and student performance.

At MY DVA, we believe that the environment in which children grow up has a fundamental impact on their future. We are happy to help your school create a place where students feel good—and where they enjoy learning.