Designing Learning Spaces for Connection and Creativity: Pingree School’s Learning Commons
At Pingree School, education extends beyond classrooms—learning is a dynamic, collaborative experience that happens everywhere. Since 2012, OLSON LEWIS + Architects has partnered with Pingree to shape this vision through the creation of their evolving Learning Commons.
This ongoing transformation demonstrates the school’s commitment to creating Beautiful Places that inspire curiosity, encourage teamwork, and support hands-on discovery.
From Library to Learning Commons: A New Model for Learning
The journey began with reimagining Pingree’s traditional library. In 2012, OL+ helped transform the annex into THE HUB—a vibrant space focused on collaborative, innovation-driven learning.
Since then, the Learning Commons has expanded to include both formal study spaces and informal gathering areas, blending academic focus with social interaction.
Learning Commons Highlights:
- Quiet Library: Dedicated space for research, study carrels, and comfortable reading areas
- Pond Room: Open-plan area supporting group academic work
- Group Study Room: Conference-style space for team collaboration
- The Hub: The center for project-based, innovative learning
- Harte Room: Quiet reading space
- Production Room: A media creation space with green screen technology
- Lego Wall: A playful, hands-on area for creative experimentation
Extending the Vision: Dining Commons and Maker Space
The latest addition to the Learning Commons concept is the Dining Commons, opened at the start of the 2015/2016 school year. More than just a place to eat, this flexible space offers:
- Traditional café-style seating
- Collaborative furniture arrangements, encouraging conversation and group interaction
The Dining Commons functions as a natural gathering space—supporting informal learning and connection throughout the day.
Meanwhile, the Maker Space serves as a creative hub for robotics, invention, and hands-on exploration—further enriching the Learning Commons as a destination for active, student-centered learning.
A New Kind of Commons: Where Learning Happens Everywhere
At OLSON LEWIS + Architects, we believe that Beautiful Places aren’t defined solely by form—they’re defined by the connections and ideas they support. The Learning Commons at Pingree School embodies this philosophy: a flexible, adaptable environment where learning becomes an experience shared across disciplines and age groups.
We’re proud to continue supporting Pingree’s vision of creating innovative spaces that inspire and engage their students.
