Community Engagement Shapes Meaningful School Design
When communities feel left out of the school design process, even necessary improvements can face resistance. But when engagement is intentional, transparent and inclusive, those same projects can gain momentum, trust and lasting support. FGMA’s Community Engagement Hierarchy of Needs offers a structured approach to building that connection, guiding districts from initial awareness to true […]
Today’s Schools Need Research and Information Gathering Spaces
Innovative learning environments provide spaces that encourage students and teachers to engage in investigative conversations, conduct peer reviews, develop research skills and present their learning publicly. Research and information gathering are foundational skills in education, teaching students how to think critically, analyze data and communicate their findings. Both teachers and students need to know how […]
Beyond the Field: How FGMA Designs PK-12 Athletic Facilities that Build Community
Athletics have been described as the “other half of education.” At FGMA, they are designed that way. Across the country, FGMA’s PK-12 athletic facilities reflect a consistent belief that these are not isolated amenities but catalysts for student success, community connection and long-term wellness. From sprawling suburban high schools to dense urban campuses and faith-based […]
FGMA Congratulates Paul Klee on his Elevation into AIA’s College of Fellows
FGMA is pleased to announce that Principal Paul Klee has been elevated into the American Institute of Architect’s (AIA) College of Fellows. Granted to only 3% of AIA members, this prestigious designation is AIA’s highest membership honor, recognizing architectural excellence and significant contributions to the profession and society. Paul’s induction reflects his work on technical […]
Boost Students’ Academic Experiences with Small Group Learning Pods
Small group learning benefits from spaces that are designed to support peer-to-peer discussions, group project work and differentiated instruction. Small group learning pods offer numerous benefits for both students and teachers. They foster a more personalized, interactive and collaborative learning environment, which can be especially effective for deepening students' understanding, promoting critical thinking and enhancing […]
Paul Klee to Lead FGMA’s PK–12 Education Practice in the Mid-Atlantic
FGM Architects announces the launch of its PK–12 education practice in Virginia, Washington, D.C. and Maryland, expanding the firm’s long-standing commitment to creating safe, inspiring and future-ready learning environments. With decades of experience designing schools nationwide, FGM Architects is bringing a student-centered, community-driven approach to districts, counties, private schools and partner firms across the Mid-Atlantic. […]
Designing Learning Environments That Adapt, Perform and Endure
Next Generation Learning Guiding Principles By Paul Klee, AIA, ALEP, LEED AP, NCARB Principal, FGM Architects Introduction “Next Generation Learning is a measurable, research-based response to how students actually learn today.” For more than a century, the physical form of American schools has remained largely unchanged, even as the world around them has transformed dramatically. […]
Designing for Early Learners: How Highland Primary School’s Interiors Inspire Confidence and Curiosity
Highland Primary School is a learning environment where students in grades PK-2 find safety, inclusivity and joy at school. Highland Primary School’s new 90,000 sf facility was designed with one goal in mind: to create a safe, welcoming environment for the youngest students that provided a sense of belonging the moment they set foot inside. […]
What Does “Radically Student Centered” Design Mean?
What does “radically student centered” design mean for PK-12 education spaces? Two of FGMA’s interior designers, Samantha Blum, NCIDQ, LEED AP and Celeste Karier, IIDA, ALEP, answered this question in conversation with Better Learning Podcast host Matt Rogers. Recorded live at EdSpaces 2025, Samantha explained how engaging teachers through user meetings, designing flexible classrooms and […]
St. Louis PK-12 Leader Emily Spindler Shares Insights on the Future of Ed Spaces
Last month, the St. Louis Business Journal brought area leaders together to discuss the present state (and future vision) of PK-12 learning environments. FGMA’s Regional PK-12 Practice Leader Emily Spindler sat down with thought leaders from Utilitra, S. M. Wilson & Co and Haworth to discuss safety, technology and gathering ideas and intel from the […]