Designing Schools That Inspire: How Immersion-Based Planning Shapes Educational Spaces
Before architects sketch a line, understanding the heart of a school community is essential. At OLSON LEWIS + Architects, our approach to educational design starts with listening. Our immersion-based process allows us to uncover what makes each school unique—so we can design learning spaces that nurture creativity, connection, and community.
Why School Design Starts with Listening
Every school is different. From students and parents to teachers and staff, each voice offers valuable insights into what a campus needs to thrive. But identifying and prioritizing those needs isn’t always simple.
Our education team at OL+ has honed an immersion planning method—an approach similar to educational visioning. Through workshops, observation, and open discussions, we gather perspectives from all stakeholders, identifying:
- Core values
- Educational priorities
- Operational goals
- Design expectations and concerns
This process ensures that every design choice supports not only academic success but also the human experience of learning, teaching, and connecting.
Case Study: Shore Country Day School’s Center for Creativity
At Shore Country Day School, immersion revealed a clear theme: Community, Connection, and Creativity. From this understanding, we designed the much-loved Lawrence A. Griffin Center for Creativity.
Now serving as the heart of campus life, this space encourages:
- Hands-on learning through art, theater, and music
- Collaborative and individual exploration
- Connections between students, faculty, and families
Building Educational Spaces That Reflect Mission and Values
At OLSON LEWIS + Architects, we believe successful school design is about more than functional spaces. It’s about creating environments that:
- Support innovative teaching methods
- Encourage creativity across disciplines
- Strengthen the sense of school community
By using an immersion-based planning process, we ensure each design responds to the daily needs of students and educators—while supporting long-term growth and learning goals.
Authentic design, for learning spaces that feel true to your school’s mission.
“When you enter the new Center for Creativity, you can’t help but get excited.
There is no better space for creative expression anywhere.”
– Larry A. Griffin (Former Head of School)
