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

  • College of the Desert Hits Construction Milestone on New Campus

    College of the Desert recently announced that the construction of its new Palm Springs Campus in Palm Springs, Calif., recently reached a major construction milestone, according to a news release. The college is partnering with general contractor C.W. Driver Companies, which recently “topped out” the facility by placing the final beam in its structure.

  • Spaces4Learning Trends & Predictions for Educational Facilities in 2026: Part I

    We asked, you answered, and the results are in! Last year, we put out a call for submissions to collect our readership’s opinion on trends and predictions for K–12 and higher education facilities in 2026.

  • Can AI Help Build Stronger Communities in Student Housing?

    Student housing success is shifting from operational performance to student experience, with belonging now at the center. A recent 2025 report underscores a growing emphasis on student well-being, community, and engagement, signaling that expectations now extend beyond logistics to ensure students feel supported in their living environments. AI is enabling that shift by reducing administrative workload and giving teams more time to focus on meaningful student engagement.

  • Girl Sitting at Library Desk, Using Laptop

    How Campus Design Shapes the Finals Week Experience

    Academic performance is not just about preparation. It is closely tied to how students manage stress, maintain their energy, and shift between work and recovery modes. Much of that is influenced, directly or indirectly, by design.