K12 design has remained anything but static over time. In fact, K12 design trends have been quietly shifting our perception of the education system as a whole. Instead of a cookie-cutter, government-budgeted approach, many districts are investing in more flexible learning spaces. It is becoming obvious the ways in which a well-designed learning environment can positively impact today’s students. As a result, many K12 school design trends are pivoting to accommodate.
Simply put, the aim of 21st century design is to set students up for success. Although, that could probably be said of all K12 designs throughout history. A key difference in 21st-century design is an understanding that students’ social and emotional well-being and development are just as important as their intellectual development. To better support students both on an intellectual and an emotional level, consider the following ideas:
The latest K12 school design trends support each of these goals. By leveraging these trends, experienced architects design school buildings that are future-ready, while also enhancing the district’s academic integrity. This in turn leads to greater student happiness and academic success.
To achieve all of these challenging goals, architects must be ready to adapt their designs to make classrooms more functional and emotionally supportive. Some of the most important K12 school design trends we see having the greatest effect are:
Flexible Spaces
Spaces shouldn't be thought of as jail cells, holding students until a bell rings. Instead, it’s important to facilitate meaningful interaction and collaboration. This can be done, in part, by including creative classroom seating that’s easily reconfigured. Movable walls can also allow teachers to create breakout spaces for learning. Spaces in a K12 school should also support all types of learning styles. It is important to incorporate small, quiet spaces with larger spaces for group work. Creating large, collaborative workstations for group projects, encourages students to interact more with their peers. Treating every classroom as though it is a makerspace, allows for more varied uses.Incorporating Biophilic Design Principles
The outdoors has a beneficial effect on student happiness and learning. This is why many schools are incorporating outdoor learning labs and other biophilic principles. Outdoor labs also expand the instructional space and keep students engaged by allowing them more room to move about. Community teaching gardens, outdoor makerspaces, open-air seating areas, and weatherproof whiteboards enable teachers to move their lessons outside or even center lessons around environmental topics.At CMBA Architects, we have a strong awareness of K12 school design trends. We know that each district has its own unique set of goals and desires. It’s our mission to turn those goals into a design that prioritizes functionality without sacrificing any of the forms. Interested in learning more? Get in touch with CMBA Architects today!