HEAD START CENTER DESIGN GUIDE

+ Carpet tiles, which can be replaced easily work best

*Recommended finishes for each classroom include approximately 50-75 percent sheet vinyl floor covering. Permanently installed carpeting around toddler lofts and seating areas is desirable. However, installed carpeting has been found to be difficult to clean and maintain. It also lowers the flexibility of the classroom. Non-slip throw rugs, which come in a variety of shapes and colors, have been found to be a better choice to alleviate the institutional appearance of a predominantly sheet vinyl floor finish. It is important that vinyl extend under areas of art sinks, sand and water play, tables for eating, painting and other "messy" activities - in other words, most of the classroom completely. Consider hazards and slipping problems when selecting and designing floor finishes. Wall finish may be washable paint above a vinyl wall covering wainscot.

Note: All PL couters should have a minimum 3.9-inch back splash when they meet partitions.