Developed for St Vincent’s Primary School in London, The Wonder Room is a pilot project designed to introduce a new typology of emotional-support spaces within UK schools. Designed as a sanctuary for children who need moments of calm, regulation, and focused support, the room mixes spatial design, sensory psychology, and digital wellbeing research.

A New Model for School Wellbeing

The Wonder Room is organised around a central modular table that anchors the space and connects three distinct emotional zones. Each zone corresponds to a specific colour and sensory intention, forming a cohesive environment where children can transition between energy, focus, and calm. The spatial strategy integrates tactile materials, custom furniture, lighting, and a curated soundscape. Together, these elements create an immersive setting that supports emotional regulation and encourages positive behavioural patterns.

“At St Vincent’s, wellbeing is an ongoing priority and The Wonder Room has made a visible difference to our school. It offers our pupils a safe and calming space where they can reflect, regulate, and receive support. We are very fortunate to have such a beautiful, purposeful addition to our school.”

— Miss Coleman, Head Teacher, St Vincent’s Primary School

Atmosphere & Identity

The Wonder Room is designed as a complete 360°sensory environment, where interiors, materials, lighting, and sound work as a unified system. RGB lighting immerses each zone in its emotional palette (orange for activation, yellow for focus, violet for calm) while textures and furnishings reinforce these states through touch and spatial rhythm. An ambient soundscape wraps the room in a gentle acoustic layer, supporting regulation and guiding children through moments of play, concentration, and rest. Together, the lightscape, soundscape, and interior design create an immersive wellbeing atmosphere that responds holistically to pupils’ emotional needs.

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The Activity Zone

The orange zone is designed to stimulate energy and engagement. Low shelving holds large storage boxes filled with LEGO materials used for structured and free play. On top, two of Paolo’s favourite LEGO creations are displayed. Paolo was a young student from St Vincent’s who passed away last year after a battle with cancer, and his presence in the room offers a subtle thread of memory, narrative, and connection. The warm palette and active layout encourage creativity, socialisation, and problem-solving, offering children a constructive outlet for emotional expression.

The Sensory Tent Zone

The violet zone is a calming retreat inspired by the storybook tents and hideaways that populate children’s imaginations. Soft fabrics, cushions, and blankets create an intimate enclosure where kids can rest, decompress, or receive emotional support. Violet lighting reinforces the sense of quiet and introspection, offering a restorative counterpoint to the more active areas of the room.

The Fidget & Tactile Zone

This zone focuses on concentration and sensory grounding. A fidget wall extends into a tactile wall composed of diverse textures, materials, and colours. The design invites exploration through touch, helping children regulate attention and channel restlessness into soothing, purposeful movement. Yellow (a colour associated with clarity and optimism) defines the atmosphere and supports cognitive engagement.

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‍Credits

Project developed in collaboration with: Wonderward,Wforty4, Jordan Waid.

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