Page 19 - Summer_2019

ArchDC Summer 2019.qxp_Spring 2019 5/22/19 2:54 PM Page 17

The west wing houses classrooms on both floors, with informal outdoor
learning spaces on the rooftop. Solar chimneys, which project above the
roof, provide non-mechanical cooling except in the hottest weather.
Photo © Anice Hoachlander/Hoachlander Davis Photography
Differentiated Learning however, one finds a wealth of options. Each classroom has
a brightly-colored entrance element, with a supergraphic
All of the above features, and more, come together in the of the room number and a bench where a teacher could
elemental yet relatively new concept that learning is have a spontaneous moment with one or two students.
optimized when there is a variety of learning environments There are several spaces that Schneider designates as
and teaching methods. There’s nothing wrong with having “nooks.” Two are widened areas of the second-floor cor-
rows of desks facing a chalkboard, of course, but a school ridor in the new west wing, with walls of glass looking
needs to have other types of spaces, larger and smaller— outward and space for four to six students each. The
and simply different. library has a similar glassy nook overlooking the atrium.
At Powell, the traditional classroom—an enclosed, Several classes can unite, with students sitting on the
discrete space, imbued with the sense of ownership of a small amphitheater of the new atrium space. This of
specific teacher—dominates, but has flexible furniture to course is also where class photos are staged. The rooftop
allow a variety of formats. Beyond the classrooms, gardens offer hands-in-the-dirt lessons, quite different

BREATH OF FRESH AIR 17