Current Headlines

Arcadia turns modular benching on its head with its latest collection, Flipside. The inspiration of renowned designer Gemma Bernal, Flipside offers a refreshing take on traditional benches by infusing modern touches with functional – and surprisingly comfortable – design elements.

Drawing upon the concept of minimalism, the series features a slender profile and open metal frame that are at once sophisticated, yet convey a playful energy. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, its inherent craftsmanship is evident throughout, from the tailored stitching to the finely-honed connection points and wood accents.

SOLON, OH, JUNE 26, 2024 — Global flooring manufacturer Tarkett has launched a carpet tile collection inspired by the aesthetic of repurposed materials. The Quiet Edit™ collection is a high-performance solution for open spaces, greeting areas, lobbies, meeting rooms or anywhere that people meet, gather, work or learn. “Reflection often leads toward tranquil transformation—a sense of purpose. As we considered our textile material choices for the future of our environment, we created Quiet Edit with a subtle, simple aesthetic that aims to quiet the senses,” said Omoleye Simmons, vice president of design at Tarkett North America.

June 10, 2024 (Cleveland, Ohio) -- Learning By Design magazine, The Premier Source for Education Design Innovation and Excellence has released it's much anticipated (Summer) June 2024 Edition. Within the compendium readers will find many knowledge based articles from thought leaders from across the North America. In addition to articles derived from professional association partners such as the American Institute of Architects Committee on Architecture for Education (AIA CAE) or from The Association of Learning Environments (A4LE) Learning By Design is proud to present the first class of recipients of The ICON in Education Design Awards.

AUSTIN, Texas (May 16, 2024) – Elgin Independent School District (ISD), a rapidly growing area east of Austin, recently began construction on Trinity Ranch Elementary, which will welcome 850 students in Fall 2025. The school, designed by Pfluger Architects, is the second elementary resulting from a bond passed in 2021. Harvest Ridge Elementary, currently under construction and also designed by Pfluger, will open its doors to students in Fall 2024.

Cleveland, Ohio –April 4, 2024– Learning By Design has published the annual Spring 2024 Educational Facilities Design Awards Showcase. The April 2024 edition features a broad assortment of exemplary PK-12 and post-secondary learning environments. These recently or soon to activated projects include newly constructed entire buildings and or renovated early childhood, elementary school, middle school, high school, specialized education, higher education, and other learning space types.

Encore has introduced Sunny, a versatile collection of seating and tables inspired by the lighthearted spirit of California. Designed by UK-based studio Rainlight, the series includes guest and lounge chairs, a settee, and accompanying occasional tables in various sizes tailored for corporate, healthcare, educational settings and more. 

Cartersville, Ga., February 26, 2024 – Shaw Contract introduces Creative Zone, a 24 x 24 carpet tile collection inspired by whimsical moments in everyday landscapes, designed with all learning environments in mind. Creative Zone was designed to not only help create inspiring spaces, but also to help establish a commitment to creativity, curiosity, and a better, fairer future keeping paramount the experience and futures of learners and teachers.

SAN ANTONIO – (Feb. 15, 2024) – Pfluger Architects, a Texas-based architecture firm with extensive experience in educational facility planning, design and construction administration, expanded its design and consulting team across the Lone Star State with the addition of new leaders, including Brenda Swirczynski. A seasoned former educator and curriculum coordinator, Swirczynski will contribute her classroom expertise to a variety of projects as the firm’s Educational Facility Planner. 

Grand Rapids, Mich. (January 22, 2024) – GMB, a professional services firm focused on the educational market, and Secure Environment Consultants (SEC) have entered into a partnership that aims to enhance school safety through design, security planning, and safety training. This exclusive partnership will allow GMB to offer safety solutions that integrate with building and environment design, and this holistic approach will extend to training for staff and teachers.

Philadelphia, PA: Spiezle Architectural Group, Inc., is pleased to announce the opening of its newest office in Philadelphia. The 6,200-square-foot office is located near the historic Liberty Bell at 615 Chestnut Street. It will enhance the firm’s presence in Philadelphia, and surrounding areas, to provide clients with full-scope architectural services.