Orterra: Designing practical solutions for heat-resilient learning environments
As climate conditions shift and temperatures rise, creating comfortable outdoor spaces in schools is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. Heat can significantly impact student wellbeing, concentration, and learning outcomes, making it essential for schools to prioritise cooling strategies across playgrounds, walkways, and outdoor learning areas.
At Orterra, we work with schools to design outdoor environments that are not only beautiful and functional, but also safe, inclusive, and climate resilient. Here are three key strategies that can help schools reduce heat and provide more comfortable spaces for students and staff alike.
1. Cool Naturally: The Power of Planting
One of the most effective both for cost, efficiency and sustainable ways to reduce outdoor temperatures is through planting strategic vegetation. Trees and greenery provide natural shade, cool the surrounding air – all while creating more supportive inviting learning and play environments.
Studies have shown that in environments where there is no vegetation and hard surfaces like concrete and brick the temperature is between 10-20 oC hotter than the ambient air temperature. These hard materials continue to release head into the surrounding area after air temperatures have cooled.
Vegetation particularly large trees has been shown to naturally cool these areas by shading surfaces and blocking radiation from the sun. The cooling benefits of vegetation also support the energy efficiency and cooling of buildings.
2. Shade Structures That Support Learning and Movement
Built structures such as covered walkways, pavilions, and pergolas are essential for providing sun protection and enabling outdoor use year-round. They create shaded spaces for play, teaching, and transitions between classrooms while also protecting students from rain and other weather extremes.
Shade sails or solid canvas sails can be a cost-effective option and provide vital UV protection. However, it’s important to design these with airflow in mind – while they can decrease the temperature beneath them. They shade sails can trap heat, making spaces significantly hotter so good design is critical.
3. Additional Cooling Tactics: Water, Airflow, and Material Choice
Complementary cooling strategies can make a significant difference, especially in high-use zones. Water is an effective cooling mechanism and features like misting systems, can reduce ambient temperatures. Different types of water use can also create playful, engaging experiences for students.
In shaded structures, ceiling or wall-mounted outdoor fans help circulate air and provide relief on hot days. Additionally, using light-coloured or heat-reflective materials for surfaces like pavements and roofs can reduce heat absorption. Where possible, opt for permeable surfaces such as grass, sand, or mulch over concrete or asphalt to minimise ground heat.
Planning for Long-Term Comfort and Climate Resilience
Creating thermally comfortable school environments involves more than just heat reduction, it’s about designing for long-term sustainability, safety, and student wellbeing. Combining natural shade, smart infrastructure, and innovative cooling solutions allows schools to adapt to changing conditions while supporting active learning and outdoor engagement.
When students and staff are involved in the design and implementation process, these projects also foster environmental awareness and ownership of the space, an important step in building future-ready schools.
Looking to reduce heat in your school’s outdoor spaces? Let’s work together to create safe, engaging environments that support learning and resilience. Contact Orterra to start a conversation.
0422 243 815
[email protected]
orterra.com.au
