Transforming Spaces: Elementary Classroom

Collaborative Conversions

CHALLENGE: This new construction elementary school truly embraces the Next Generation Classrooms concept. The school was designed for an immersive, dual-language curriculum, and incorporated cutting-edge technology and open, flexible spaces. A "classroom" would be defined by the activity, the number of participating students, and the required resources.

The design of the space aligns with the concept of Next Generation Classrooms, offering flexibility, comfort, and multifunctionality. By shifting traditional thinking from desks and chairs to the idea of "seating" and "worksurfaces," the school provides students with an engaging and adaptable space that supports diverse learning activities.

Part of the "Transforming Spaces" series.

Encouraging student autonomy

The vision is to create classrooms that go beyond the conventional, offering students the autonomy to choose their seating and work surfaces based on learning activities. The focus is on providing multifunctional worksurfaces and saving space, ultimately fostering a dynamic and collaborative learning environment inside the walls of the existing building.

TREND: Incorporating versatile furniture such as mobile desks and adjustable seating allows for easy reconfiguration to accommodate various teaching styles and activities. Flexible learning zones, including cozy reading corners, hands-on exploration areas, and collaborative workspaces, encourage student autonomy and cater to diverse learning preferences.

Future-Proofing classroomS

By investing in upgradable technologies and forward-thinking design considerations, we can future-proof our schools and provide students with an immersive learning experience that prepares them for success in the ever-evolving educational landscape.

SOLUTIONS (slide show)

Part of the NXT MOV Classroom. Intrepid likes to buddy up with Artcobell's Wanderer, Trek, and Shape tables to have some fun! An imaginative organic shape that supports a multi-functional classroom.

Floor seating can enhance the overall learning experience and create a dynamic and interactive classroom environment. Also consider soft seating as a way to change heights and provide movement.

Classroom seating options and work surface choices available for learning environments today are endless! Do you choose individual student desks, large collaborative tables, or a mixture of both? Do you need a big horseshoe table or can you conserve space with one of these fun alternatives shown above?

HELPFUL LINKS

Download the Layout + Product Selections for this project: CET (.cmfav) - SIF - JPEG
Listen to the EDsmarts conversation with Shalyn Ekins, Box Elder SD: Why Don’t We Train Teachers to Use New Flexible Classrooms?
Designer: Planning Typicals
Resources: Solutions: Classrooms
CEU: Trends in Education Design

discover the products

shape tables

Flip Tables

arise podium

teacher storage

let's shape the future of educational spaces together!

Our "Transforming Spaces" series explores real-world educational spaces that meet the evolving needs of today's learners. From innovative media centers to dynamic classroom layouts, these spaces are deliberately designed to inspire collaboration, creativity, and autonomy. This series explores the educational "whys" driving design, and showcases real-world scenarios that are reshaping traditional classroom settings to foster a more interactive and engaging learning experience. With a focus on functional layouts and versatile furniture options, these projects demonstrate how we can future-proof classrooms and empower educators to create dynamic spaces where students can thrive. Each article explores the products and resources that can help you elevate your learning environment and transform your space into a hub of creativity and innovation. Let's embark on this journey together towards creating classrooms that truly make a difference.