Singapore redesigns school cafeterias.

However, the recent wave of renovations has transformed the cafeteria into a multi-functional space for learning, socializing, and creating for students.

At Yishun High School, Zhenghua High School, and Tampines Meridian College in Singapore, the cafeterias have been redesigned in a modern café style, featuring round tables, chairs with backrests, flexible seating arrangements, and warm lighting to encourage students to converse and learn.

In addition, schools are integrating many learning-related amenities right into the cafeteria. At Zhenghua High School, the high tables are equipped with USB charging ports, allowing students to use their personal devices more conveniently.

The seating areas are designed in a modular fashion, easily adjustable to suit group study or individual work needs. Games like chess are also included, providing additional healthy entertainment options during breaks.

Mr. Ng Hock Soon, Principal of Zhenghua High School, said: “The cafeteria renovation took place at the end of 2025, amidst the implementation of restrictions on phone use, which had made the school environment somewhat tense. The current atmosphere is much more relaxed, feeling like a real cafe. Some teachers told me they see more new student faces in the cafeteria than before.”

Beyond aesthetics, the new school cafeterias also serve as "open classrooms" for sustainable development. Many schools have installed water usage monitoring equipment, encouraged students to bring their own water bottles, and used electronic scales to measure food waste. These initiatives help students become more aware of their daily consumption habits.

Mimi Wardina, 17, said: “The food waste bins have made me more mindful of how much food I’m throwing away. I’ve started thinking more carefully before taking food.”

Jessica Ong, 16, shared: “The soft colors and earthy tones create a very peaceful atmosphere. It’s like a café, even with a touch of a traditional kopitiam, but more modern. That helps me concentrate better when studying.”

At Yishun High School, the renovation project was implemented in two phases, aiming to transform the cafeteria into a familiar after-school destination. A previously underutilized corner was converted into a multi-tiered "Staircase" area where students can relax or hold group discussions. The concrete pillars, previously considered "ugly," were repurposed to accommodate high tables with electrical outlets.

Previously, school cafeterias only served as lunch facilities for students. After meals, students would disperse to classrooms or other functional rooms to rest, study, or use their phones. Renovating the cafeteria model provides students with more space for activities and interaction, reducing their dependence on technology.

Mr. Tay Hiang Soon, Vice Principal of Yishun High School, said: “We redesigned the space with inspiration from places where students often gather after school, such as cafes. These are spaces where they can comfortably be themselves, learning and chatting at the same time. Every detail, from the warm LED lighting to the placement of a piano in the common area, was carefully considered to encourage creativity and connection.”

According to Inquirer

Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/singapore-tai-thiet-design-nha-an-truong-hoc-post772752.html