A library-furnishings consultant explains important factors to keep in mind when selecting furnishings: demographics; dimensions and budgets; how the interior should look (standard versus customized furnishings and best materials); and electrical considerations (wire management and safe electrical connections). (AEF)

There is a dearth of literature on multicultural aspects of play therapy, particularly for Mexican-American children. According to Landreth (2002), it is of utmost importance that children be able to communicate in a way that is most natural to them. The literature currently reflects a playroom based mostly on middle class European-American…

This paper describes the psychology laboratory at Nebraska Wesleyan University and the efforts of the small department which participated in the design and development process. The lab consists of 26 rooms, mostly small cubicles, and covers approximately 3,800 square feet. Each area of the lab is described in terms of its design and function.…

The development of learning environments especially for adults has been neglected and research in planning such environments is fragmented and minimal. There is general agreement that facilities for adults should have an aura of adulthood to contribute to an adult's feeling of ease, confidence, and capability; that they should be flexible in room…

In designing group day care for infants, special attention has been given to efficient care practices, so that all the children's health needs can be met and so that the staff will have ample time to interact with the children. One efficient method is to assign each staff member the responsibility of a particular area rather than a particular…

A project to redesign an elementary school classroom was undertaken by 14 architecture students at the University of Buffalo (New York). Six basic steps are listed which any class can take to make its living space better meet its needs. (KC)

Classroom environmental factors that promote or inhibit a climate facilitating learning are discussed, and general principles that may serve as a guide to developing effective classroom settings are presented. (MJB)

Reviews the history of architectural developments in academic libraries. Highlights include natural lighting and the invention of the incandescent bulb; compact shelving; open versus closed stacks; modular construction methods; central air conditioning and controlled environments; interior arrangements; access to handicapped users and staff; and…

Indicates what happens to man when he suffers sensory deprivation, and underscores color's influence on behavior patterns. (Author)

Examines how to create a professional climate in middle schools given budgetary challenges. Provides checklist of physical, academic, organizational, and social-emotional climates for assessment of school's overall professional climate. Makes suggestions for low-cost school changes based on mutual respect as the cornerstone of the work…

Architects, group home administrators, people with mental retardation, family members of people with mental retardation, and college undergraduates substantially agreed in rating the homelikeness of 20 community residences for people with mental retardation. Clusters of physical features identified using an architectural inventory were found to be…

Student affairs professionals have recognized the importance of physical environment to students' total development and have implemented strategies to enhance the territorial behavior of dormitory residents. However, little research has been done to assess the effectiveness of residence hall personalization programs which allow students to paint…

Focuses on selecting appropriate furnishings, floorings, and surfaces for a new library. Discusses appropriate color schemes; carpeting; protecting wood surfaces with polyurethane, user-friendly furniture, and flexible staff workstations. (AEF)

Discussion of building new library facilities focuses on reflections of what could be done differently after a building is completed, based on experiences at Winona State University. Topics include windows; emergency exits; wired study furniture for portable computing; rest rooms; compact shelving; OPAC terminals; elevators; and functionality.…

The design development of a housing facility for deaf and blind students is reviewed in considerable detail. Initially traditional architectural solutions to the creation of dormitory space and accompanying circulation patterns are examined for their effect upon the lives of the inhabitants. The subsequent design progression which is presented is…