Instilling Pride, Creating Opportunity at District 218 High Schools
For Community High School District 218 (CHSD 218), the completion of new spaces—including two new fieldhouse additions and two renovated theaters—represents far more than routine facilities improvements. A multi-phased program starting in the summer of 2024 included renovation and expansion work at two District schools: Dwight D. Eisenhower High School and Alan B. Shepard High […]
The Power of Nature-Based Play | Salt Creek Primary School
Salt Creek Primary School’s new natural playground provides opportunities for students to practice social emotional learning skills, creative and open-ended play, and is an extension of the district’s learning curriculum.
Norman Commons Brings Deeply Affordable Multifamily Housing and Community Resources to East Austin
By Jon Salinas, AIA and Andrea Freiburger, AIA, TiD-Bronze Every decision at Norman Commons was shaped by the belief that a home can change the way a family moves through the world. Affordable Multifamily Housing Rooted in East Austin Located in East Austin near Norman Sims Elementary School, the 156-unit deeply affordable multifamily housing community […]
Creative Stewardship Unlocks New Possibilities for Urban School Design in Austin
This vertical campus transforms limited urban land into a place for student well-being, community connection and long-term sustainability. On any given day along Guadalupe Street in Austin, the pace of the city unfolds just beyond the doors of St. Austin Catholic School. For more than a century, this corner has nurtured connection. Today, it supports […]
Designing Connections: The Power of Parks and Recreation to Strengthen Communities
Parks and recreation spaces play a central role in bringing communities together. Through thoughtful design, these environments support connection, encourage active lifestyles and enrich everyday experiences for people of all ages. Recreation naturally brings people together. From spontaneous games on a playground to organized leagues and community events, shared experiences connect people across generations and […]
Designing Higher Education Spaces for Workforce Readiness and Regional Impact
From Career Preparation to Regional Impact: Designing CTE Spaces for Higher Education Across higher education institutions, workforce education programs are expanding pathways into essential industries. These programs are becoming central to how colleges and universities respond to workforce needs. They connect academic purpose with student mobility, helping student and adult learners gain skills, credentials and […]
Building Tomorrow’s Workforce Starts Long Before Graduation
From High School to High-Demand Careers: Designing Career and Technical Education for Future Generations While every career and technical education (CTE) program is unique, the most successful projects begin with the same question: How can a facility create meaningful connections between learning and life after graduation? A high school student may learn to weld in […]
Water Security and Conservation: Designing for a More Resilient Future
As communities face increasing concerns related to drought, aging infrastructure, and population growth, water security has become an essential part of designing for resilience. Resilient infrastructure and thoughtful planning play a critical role in protecting one of our most valuable natural resources. Water security means ensuring reliable access to safe, clean water while managing risks […]
Immersive Learning Inspires at St. Charles Community College
At St. Charles Community College, immersive technology and intentional design are helping students connect more deeply with their coursework and with each other. A New Way to Experience Learning Through VR A student settles into their seat, pulls on a headset and pauses for a moment before the room fades away. In its place, a […]
Designing a School Entrance That Balances Safety, Visibility and Community
Albright Middle School's new entry vestibule is a direct reflection of Salt Creek School District 48's values, culture and vision for its students. The renovated space, designed in close collaboration with district leadership, offers a friendly, secure front entrance for the school and reinforces the sense of belonging that defines the community. Filled with natural […]