CHALLENGE: How can we transform existing school buildings into modern learning spaces that meet the needs of teachers and students? These "collaborative conversions" may be restricted by construction that dates back decades (or hundreds) of years or budgets that don't allow for complete retrofits. Creative solutions address space as a commodity and offer affordable ways to transform the experience one grade or zone at a time.
This existing Junior High School, with furniture dating back 40 years, embarked on a transformation to align with modern educational practices beginning with grade 6. The 3-year plan is to address one grade each year, as students progress. The shift towards collaborative and personalized learning environments necessitates a refresh in classroom furniture to promote movement and inclusivity.
Part of the "Transforming Spaces" series.
PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH MOVEMENT
The vision is to create classrooms that are not just spaces for learning but dynamic environments that facilitate movement, collaboration, and a sense of ownership. Aiming to empower students by providing agile and adaptable furniture helps to build a community within the classroom and supports social and emotional well-being.
TREND: In response to the evolving educational landscape and a commitment to shifting from traditional siloed learning to collaborative and personalized environments, it is important to create flexible and fluid spaces that not only support the changing teaching methods but also foster a sense of community, inclusivity, and productivity through movement.
As we work to revolutionize classrooms, the key lies in designing spaces that promote productivity through movement. Imagine spaces where students have the freedom to learn anywhere and at any time, breaking down traditional barriers and fostering a culture of flexibility and collaboration.
By adopting innovative spaces into the educational map (think learning hallways, breakout rooms, and a learning staircase), schools can cater to diverse learning needs and styles, creating an environment that encourages active engagement and creativity. With the right furniture and layout, classrooms can be transformed into dynamic spaces that empower students and promote social and emotional well-being.
Solutions (Slide Show)
helpful links
- Download the Layout + Product Selections for this project: CET (.cmfav) - SIF - JPEG
- Article: Future-Proofing Tomorrow's Workforce
- Article: How to Design Classrooms that Transform Learning
- Article: Strategically Planning Classroom Flow
- Resource: Solutions: Classrooms
- CEU: Tomorrow's Classroom
discover the products
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.
TRANSFORMING SPACES
- MEDIA CENTERS
- CLASSROOM (SECONDARY)
- CLASSROOM (ELEMENTARY)
- MAKER SPACES
- CAFETERIA
- COMMON AREAS