A standard way of saving floor space in kindergartens and nursery schools is to build a second level but each classroom has unique spatial problems and ways of solving them. Location of doors and windows, ceiling height, floor area and lighting are some of the variables which will determine the design of your particular loft space. Prefabricated commercial lofts may be fine for some classrooms but intrusive and uni-dimensional for others. If all you want is more floor space, a simple platform, a railing and a way to get up is all that is needed. If you imagine the structure of the loft as a framework that supports other uses, such as tables, storage, cave hideouts, bird's nests, tree houses, a puppet stage or reading library, then you might consider a more complex or flexible arrangement.

Here are a few pictures of ways we've gone to the next level in day care centers, preschools and play spaces.