The physical environment is crucial in emotional well-being, particularly in educational settings where stress and conflict can negatively affect student behaviour and academic success. This study explored the relationship between student-centered design and the emotional well-being of secondary school students in Nigeria, with a particular focus on how school environments impact student stress and conflict resolution. Drawing on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, the research examined how physical learning environments influence students’ basic needs, including safety, belonging, and self-esteem, which are critical to their emotional well-being and academic success. The study utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from 200 questionnaires administered to students in both private and public schools and qualitative insights from interviews with 12 educators and 4 facility managers. The findings indicated that student-centered designs, which include features such as flexible classroom layouts, green spaces, and natural lighting, led to a 35% reduction in stress and a 40% decrease in student conflicts. On the other hand, schools with overcrowded classrooms and poor infrastructure exacerbated stress levels and contributed to increased conflicts among students. The study highlighted the importance of involving students in the design process of their learning environments, as their needs and preferences were crucial for creating spaces conducive to their emotional and social development. The findings underscored that Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs provides a useful framework for understanding the role of the physical environment in addressing students’ psychological and emotional needs. Based on the results, the study recommended that policymakers prioritize the creation of safe, inclusive, and functional school environments that promote emotional security, social interaction, and academic engagement. It further suggested the need for ongoing training for educators and school facility managers to foster conflict resolution skills and effective space utilization.