The American School of Dubai (ASD)
Supplier: kidzink
Region: middle east
School: The American School of Dubai (ASD)
HIGH FLEXIBILITY SCIENCE LABS
The American School of Dubai, committed to continuous innovation, partnered with Kidzink to convert five existing Art and Design & Technology (DT) studios into dedicated Middle School Science Labs. The project’s mandate was to move beyond traditional, fixed lab setups to create a dynamic, pedagogy-driven environment that fosters student agency, collaboration, and various lesson formats, thus acting as a “third teacher.”
As an end-to-end partner exclusively focused on education, Kidzink provided a full-turnkey solution that integrates practical science with flexible teaching zones. This included managing the interior design, furniture design and manufacturing (at our UAE facility), fitout, and furniture installation.
Our design process prioritized adaptability, well-being, and workflow efficiency, resulting in several key features:
- Dynamic Workstations: Custom-made, mobile high-castor tables featuring durable Corian surfaces can be quickly grouped together or used independently. This allows for quick transitions between individual focus, small-group collaboration, and full-class practical work.
- Optimized Services: Perimeter services house utilities, complemented by retractable electric outlets to ensure a clutter-free environment and safe movement for students.
- Mobile Teaching Hub: The traditional fixed teacher desk was replaced with a custom mobile teaching hub, improving teacher agency and front-of-lab circulation.
- Integrated Storage System: Bespoke teaching walls were installed, built to accommodate the Gratnells storage system. Kidzink cabinetry integrates the Gratnells trays and runners, guaranteeing seamless functionality and longevity. This system is essential for maintaining a high level of organization across diverse educational environments, from labs and prep rooms to dynamic maker spaces and flexible classrooms.
“I have been teaching science for the past 15 years across a range of schools in the UK and UAE, and one constant in every learning environment has been the use of Gratnells tray systems. What I value most about Gratnells is their durability, ease of organisation for scientific equipment, and the wide range of tray sizes and colours that suit different lab needs.
In my current role at Kidzink, I design science laboratories for schools around the world. I always incorporate Gratnells storage systems into our designs to maximise functionality, flexibility, and storage efficiency” – Dan O’Hara, Director of Lab Design, Kidzink
The collaboration between Kidzink and The American School of Dubai successfully delivered five modern, future-proof labs. This project reinforces Kidzink’s position as the partner of choice for comprehensive educational infrastructure, proving that intelligent design and robust, adaptable furniture are drivers of enhanced academic outcomes and student progress.
Thank you to Kidzink for sharing this project with us.
Explore more on the Kidzink website here.