For education institutions looking for ways to expand, there is good news: they already may have the space they need, right on campus. Limited financial resources are inspiring education institutions to be more creative by enlisting the help of architects to re-examine existing built assets. By thinking differently about space--the space within…

It wasn't that long ago that when education architects and administrators raised the notion of green construction or sustainable-design strategies, they were met with head scratches and raised eyebrows. But in 2009, the energy-saving, water-conserving, environmentally friendly philosophies championed by those in the vanguard of the green schools…

This article presents answers from today's education architects to the question "What do you see as trends in education design in the next few years?" They comment on the future of design and its implications on school and university facilities. It is hoped that their collective expertise and insight will be useful in plans to build or renovate…

Many people narrowly focus on energy efficiency when defining a "high-performance" school--a school building that is economical with respect to heating, cooling, and electric lighting. That is certainly true, but in the broadest terms, a high-performance school is designed to minimize reliance on fossil fuels--and provide a comfortable, healthful,…

For education administrators, summer break is the time to regroup and prepare facilities for the next influx of students. Ensuring that facilities are equipped with proper furnishings is part of this preparation. Through careful research and planning, education administrators can choose furniture that will become a lasting investment. This article…

Today's educators require flexible spaces that can accommodate multiple functions and future demands. They need spaces that enhance modern teaching methods and a student's personal development. Architecture by itself cannot provide a good education, but the environment it creates may impact a student's well-being and ability to learn. Educators…

For 25 years, "American School & University" has been publishing a special issue dedicated to the best in education design. Although design has changed dramatically over the years, one will find that the jury criteria for award-winning projects has remained consistent. The first jury was looking for technical innovation, and 1986's…

One of the defining elements of a university is its architecture. Whether a school has ivy-covered brick buildings or modern steel and glass structures, the character of its campus may be largely shaped by its buildings and the atmosphere they create. It is essential for a university to provide sufficient housing to meet its needs, but it is also…

Why do construction projects fail? Ineffective communication and collaboration, and poor pre-planning processes are among the reasons given by building owners in a recent survey. To avoid those pitfalls, colleges and universities need to take a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach to preplanning, financing and carrying out their master plans…

School construction projects go more smoothly when architects and administrators understand each other's roles and expectations. Education administrators should understand what architects do and what they need to be effective in their jobs; architects should be aware of how education institutions function and the specific traits of the school…

Many schools and universities thought they were getting a good deal when they were building education facilities in the 1950s and 1960s. However, the K-12 and higher-education spaces constructed to accommodate the millions of baby-boomer students no longer look like the quick-fix bargain they did years ago. Low-quality materials and construction,…

Describes the design of award-winning educational facilities, including the educational context and design goals. Includes information on architects, suppliers, and cost, as well as floor plans and photographs. (EV)

Describes the design of notable school residence halls and lounges, including the educational context and design goals. Includes information on architects, suppliers, and cost, as well as photographs. (EV)

Describes the design of notable school chapels and worship centers, including the educational context and design goals. Includes information on architects, suppliers, and cost, as well as photographs. (EV)

Describes the design of notable school laboratories, including the educational context and design goals. Includes information on architects, suppliers, and cost, as well as photographs. (EV)