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Montessori-inspired Interiors: Designing spaces for Early Childhood development

February 14, 2026 Posted by Admin In Uncategorized

Abstract

MONTESSORI-INSPIRED INTERIORS: Designing spaces for Early Childhood development

Journal: Sustainable Cities and Built Environment (JSCBE)

Author: Hana Karoui 

This is an open-access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.58757/jscbe.04.01.02

The research has investigated the importance of interior design in creating an indoor environment within a nursery and its direct impact on the self-development of toddlers. It emphasizes that the physical setting should actively contribute to fostering independence, confidence, and comfort in early childhood. This study confirms the hypothesis that interior design makes an important contribution to supporting educators in addressing the spatial needs of Montessori environments and highlighting the interrelationship between design principles and educational philosophy. By doing so, it identifies practical guidelines for designers to configure classroom spaces in ways that enhance the learning experience and general well-being of children. This research identifies that most classrooms within nurseries lack an authentic Montessori-friendly environment but instead this approach is employed by using it only in toddler’s activities. To address this emerging issue, the study insists on clear interior design guidelines to be developed for purpose-built nursery facilities that conform to Montessori philosophy. Such guidelines are necessary for all design elements and will address zoning, circulation and movement, lighting, furniture and shelving, flooring, and incorporation of natural elements in ensuring that the physical environment actively promotes Montessori philosophy. A mixed-method approach was adopted, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques. Data was collected through a questionnaire with nursery teachers and mothers of toddlers, added to an observation study, and complemented by a benchmarking analysis of Montessori-inspired nurseries at local, regional, and international levels. Results show that Montessori principles can be successfully interpreted in the form of interior design guidelines, which would enable classrooms to foster independence, responsibility, and self-confidence while ensuring safety and comfort. Recommendations emphasize the importance of cooperation between interior designers and educators in creating an environment that will actively boost Children’s development and make the physical space a partner in the learning process.

FieldValue
Pages28-74
Year2026
Issue01
Volume04