Spaces4Learning Launches Education Design Showcase 2023

Spaces4Learning is now accepting entries for the Education Design Showcase 2023! The awards program celebrates innovative and practical solutions in planning, design and construction at K–12 and Higher Education institutions both. Its ultimate goal is to share ideas that will help achieve the best possible learning environments and to recognize the firms that have made these ideas a reality.

The jury will select two Grand Prize winners, one from the K–12 category and one from the higher ed category, as well as Projects of Distinction in either category. Remaining projects that the jury selects for publication will be designated as Honorable Mention. Evaluation and judging criteria include:

  • Thorough and effective planning process, cost-effectiveness
  • Architect/design response to the program requirements, students’ needs
  • Innovation, originality, creative solutions
  • Functional, flexible, adaptable design
  • Site selection, planning, development, and use/context within the campus and community
  • Sustainability, environmental stewardship, materials selection, and maintainability
  • Safe and secure environment
  • Visual and aesthetic qualities

This year’s awards program features a multi-tiered entry program that allows applicants to submit new construction, renovation, or spaces projects. There are also different price levels and multi-project discounts. Spaces4Learning is also offering an early entry discount of $100 off per project through Feb. 24, 2023.

All entries will be showcased in the Spaces4Learning magazine, online at spaces4learning.com, in the Spaces4Learning K–12 or Higher Education Update eNewsletter, and on social media.

For more information, visit the Education Design Showcase page on the Spaces4Learning website, or jump straight to the entry form. Entries can be submitted online here. Please direct any questions or any extra materials to Susan May at [email protected].

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • Designing the Bridge Between Inclusivity and Independence in K–12 Schools

    Fostering independence is fundamental to learning and development for K–12 students. It offers many proven benefits, such as enhanced confidence, problem-solving, decision-making, and social skills. However, this foundational objective loses its impact if it’s not accessible and adaptable to all students. Inclusivity plays a critical role in cultivating independence and healthy autonomy for students, fostering positive student learning outcomes by uniting pedagogy with the physical learning environment.

  • Minnesota District Completes Renovations to 3 Schools

    South Washington County Schools in Woodbury, Minn., recently completed major renovation projects to three of its schools, according to a news release. The district partnered with Kraus-Anderson for construction services, and the upgrades were part of a larger referendum that voters approved in fall 2024.

  • Western Kentucky University Breaks Ground on First Phase of $350M Student Housing Project

    Western Kentucky University (WKU) in Bowling Green, Ky., recently broke ground on the first phase of a $350-million student housing initiative, according to a news release. The university is partnering with Gilbane Development through a public-private partnership (P3) to replace aging residence halls and modernize on-campus living accommodations.

  • Sam Houston State University Completes Athletic Stadium Renovations

    Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, recently announced the reopening of Elliott T. Bowers Stadium after an extensive renovation project, according to a news release. The university partnered with Stantec and DLR Group for the project’s design.