Student learning styles vary. As architects, we must provide a variety of spacial experiences that allow and foster different learning modalities. We look for opportunities to create environments that nurture diversity. In a school, we may provide space for linguistic and logical learning as part of the prescribed program, but spaces for visual, aural, physical, social, and solitary learning are also critical to students’ comprehensive education. Sometimes, these spaces can be incorporated in underutilized design areas, such as a gathering space next to a corridor, an exterior courtyard, or a seating area adjacent to a stair. Not only is it our job to meet an Owner’s expectations, but we must also provide flexible design solutions to meet needs they may not have considered.

Informal learning space

A stairway can easily become an alternate learning space