Introducing Schools In Focus Podcast

Now you can listen to discussions on topics that matter to you in our latest podcast, Schools In Focus! Spaces4Learning recently launched Schools In Focus, a podcast spotlighting K-12 school design, planning and management.

Schools In Focus podcast logo 

Schools In Focus podcast will dive into the latest trends in the integration of technology in space design and management, all while continuing to focus on the nuts and bolts of design, operation and maintenance of K-12 facilities. Each episode will feature a conversation with industry experts, facility managers, architects, and thought leaders on everything from security technologies to best practices for sustainable facilities and so much more!

If you have suggestions on topics you would like to hear us cover, feel free to email me.

Schools In Focus, Episode 1: Designing Library Interiors

Shanghai American School library

In our first episode, I interviewed Andrew Hausmann, an associate principal at Perkins & Will. Andrew spoke to me about library interiors, more specifically about Shanghai American School’s library transformation. We talked about the library’s role as a central hub, how it supports different learning and working styles through the various choice found throughout the space, and how creativity and imagination were key to the space design. 

Andrew Hausmann presented more in-depth information on this library transformation in a Spaces4Learning webinar in December. You can register to view the archived presentation here to supplement this podcast episode.

Shanghai American School library

Where to Listen

Schools In Focus is now available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, and Stitcher. Subscribe today, or listen below! Stay tuned for more episodes!

This article originally appeared in the January/February 2020 issue of Spaces4Learning.

About the Author

Yvonne Marquez is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • Longwood University Hits Construction Milestone on New Music Education Facility

    Longwood University in Farmville, Va., recently celebrated the topping out of its new music education and performance facility, according to a news release. The university partnered with development and construction firm Skanska on the 63,800-square-foot facility, which began construction in August 2025 and has an estimated completion date of fall 2028.

  • Washington State University Debuts New Engineering Hall

    Washington State University recently celebrated a dedication ceremony for the new Schweitzer Engineering Hall on its Pullman campus in Pullman, Wash., according to university news. The facility measures 66,288 square feet, and its completion marks the first milestone in a larger university effort to modernize the engineering and design district.

  • Phoenix High School Completes First Phase of Campus Renovations

    Metro Tech High School, part of the Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) in Phoenix, Ariz., recently announced the completion of the first stage of a campus renovation project, according to a news release. The school reopened a series of public-facing business operations spaces including credit union, daycare, floral, cosmetology, and culinary services. It also includes new CTE learning spaces for the school’s nursing assistant, pharmacy, and sports medicine programs.

  • Houston-Area High School Receives Best Project Award from ENR

    Tomball West High School near Houston, Texas, recently received a K–12 Education Best Project Award in Engineering News-Record’s 2026 Texas & Southeast Best Projects Awards, according to a press release. The new facility was completed in May and opened its doors to students for the fall 2026 semester.