Designed for adventure
Set in a rural village on the edge of the Lake District, Lindale Primary is surrounded by nature. The aim was to bring more of that environment into the school – starting with Early Years.
We worked with Sam Barker (EYFS Lead) and Kim Curwen (Headteacher) to create a space where indoors and outdoors feel connected—something immersive and different from the moment you enter.
Inside, the classroom was reimagined using natural materials and bespoke features made in our Bolton workshop. Clad walls added warmth, while elements like silver birch trunks, boulders, logs and stumps brought the outdoors in. Treehouse-style structures and handcrafted furniture supported movement, independence, and imaginative play, with soft lighting and natural finishes creating a calm, retreat-like feel.
The outdoor space was designed as a continuation of this. Fallen trees encourage climbing and strength-building, while a dry river bed and performance areas support sensory play, storytelling, and interaction.
The result is a setting that changes how children learn – encouraging curiosity, independence, and more meaningful, nature-led exploration.
Area Includes
- Cargo net
- Bark pit
- Kitchen
- Cosy nook
- Log seating
- Flower beds
- Performance stage
- Indoor play and learning space
- Fallen trees for developing core strength
Testimonial
Oliver and the team at Cool Canvas took our vision and brought it to life. Not only are they skilled and thoughtful craftsmen, but they also have knowledge of the early years which allows them to cleverly build in core skills.
We love our new classroom – it’s not just a space in which to learn, but an extension of the learning itself with children building gross motor skills and inspiring curiosity. Bringing nature inside creates a calming atmosphere where children are in the best mindset to learn.
The Cool Canvas team were adaptable and creative, and it was amazing to see our designs come to life and evolve throughout the process; they involved us throughout, bouncing ideas back and forth and problem solving together.
The new outdoor space has enhanced the indoor area building on skills as well as introducing new ones. I love walking into our early years area and seeing all of our pupils engaged and excited about learning. We really do have something special at Lindale.
Kim
