Can you read the writing on the wall? At the new Kinkaid Learning Center, in Houston, that question can be taken figuratively and literally.
Thanks to dry-erase walls that line the learning center’s maker spaces, reading the writing on the wall becomes just another step in the creation process.
Designed by Kirksey Architecture’s PK-12 Education Team, the learning center’s maker spaces are meant to create a flexible learning environment that veers somewhat from traditional teaching methods.
Included in the new 26,000-sf building are crafting spaces, sewing spaces, a custom laser printer, a 3D printing space, and transportable “pop-up” maker spaces that can easily be moved from one classroom to another.
Dry-erase walls located between two classrooms have the ability to slide apart to create one large classroom for co-teaching. A literature teacher teaching Kurt Vonnegut’s Cat’s Cradle could combine with a history teacher teaching about the nuclear arms race.
Courtesy Kirksey.
These maker spaces are meant to fight back against the “sage on the stage” concept of teaching. Kinkaid students can take an active, hands-on approach to their education.
This hands-on approach was integrated into the design process of the learning center, as well. Students and teachers took part in a visionary workshop, where they were asked to create an ideal environment for the new center and classrooms. Kirksey then integrated these suggestions into the final design.
The Nest is a workshop maker space equipped with the tools and materials necessary for building. New middle school classrooms use bright colors and floor-to-ceiling windows to allow for abundant natural light.
Courtesy Kirksey.
The furniture in these classrooms is easily movable to encourage student interaction. The idea of flexible, movable furniture was carried throughout the entire learning center to allow students to study and collaborate as effectively as possible.
The Kinkaid Learning Center just completed its first academic year after opening in time for the 2016 school year.
Related Stories
Great Solutions | Jul 9, 2021
MojoDesk creates a new solution for managing open office distractions
The MojoDome allows for a private work space while also maintaining a collaborative environment.
Great Solutions | Mar 18, 2021
Follow the leader: New following technology better equips robots for the jobsite
New proof-of-concept from Piaggio Fast Forward and Trimble enables robots and machines to follow humans.
Great Solutions | Feb 11, 2021
Simplifying the return to the office
A new web-based tool from Sasaki takes the guesswork out of heading back to the workplace.
Great Solutions | Oct 6, 2020
Could water-filled windows help buildings save energy?
New research shows how water-filled glass could help heat and cool buildings.
Great Solutions | Aug 10, 2020
From lobby to penthouse, elevators can be a 100% touch-free experience
The Toe-To-Go elevator system allows riders to operate the elevator entirely with their feet.
Great Solutions | Jul 13, 2020
Essential protection for businesses
Custom protective barriers help keep essential business employees safe.
Great Solutions | Apr 13, 2020
Family workstations highlight the new Fairfield Area Library
The workstations are the perfect remedy for squirming, restless children and toddlers.
Great Solutions | Feb 5, 2020
Power moves: The Shed
Precise positioning of mechanicals above its lighting keeps New York’s kinetic event space, The Shed, running.
Great Solutions | Dec 18, 2019
Robot uprising
Thyssenkrupp’s robotics interface platform helps robots use elevators like humans.
Great Solutions | Nov 12, 2019
Skanska designs personal protective equipment tailor-made for the female workforce
A safety vest is the first piece of equipment to undergo an update.