always learning
As the school year gets rolling what can we take away from this momentum and apply it to our own lives and schedules. Taking cues from our recent work on education projects, we contemplate the various learning modes and marvel at the beauty of learning as well as academic and personal growth. Collaboration and social interaction, focused work, art, technology, ideation and imagination, physical activity and observing nature and its creatures are only a few of the forms learning happens through. Some of us are visual while others are audible or hands-on and experimental. As architects and designers, it is our job to capture all of these various forms of learning into a universal microcosm of learning called the classroom. The classroom is a teacher’s toolbox, always shifting and changing to the various activities taking place from instruction to art projects, reading and projection of educational films. The classroom is also a canvas, reflecting students’ progress as well as the school’s values and culture. We can’t help but wonder if this designated space for learning can continue beyond its walls and beyond the confines of institutions and find its way to our own lives where it can do the same. Are you still learning?
planning for flexibility
In a recent study of classroom furniture we looked to provide flexible seating arrangements while working with technology and other AV requirements within each space. Teacher desks and storage, areas for reading and small group study and collaboration were also carefully considered and planned for. As with most designs, we start with the development of a concise programming document outlining the activities and end-uses of each space and the proposed means of achieving them both physical and operational. Throughout the design process we will constantly refer back to this document. Early planning for furniture (FF&E) is critical in the design of spaces and the ultimate architecture of educational facilities.