Lighting mistakes can limit the effectiveness of the open plan school. One expert's advice along with two examples of lighting that works. (Author)

A performing arts center projects the image of the theater itself as a stage set. (Author)

A tour of four elementary schools illustrates how antiques, plants, child-sized furniture, and other design elements can transform school lobbies and hallways into warm, welcoming places for students. School environments like these encourage children's interest and sense of responsibility, besides adding to their comfort. (PP)

Describes three examples of the adaptation of an existing structure to meet library needs in Pennsylvania--a supermarket in Brookville, a Victorian residence in Franklin, and a bank in Haverford Township--noting location considerations, architect assistance, and library usage. Illustrations provided include floor plans. (EJS)

Under the guidance of an artist-in-residence, students at Stuckey Elementary transformed a corner of their library/media center into a fantasy reading nook with soft sculpture fabric landscapes, and foam furniture designed to look like clouds. (Author/SJL)

Dormitories at Dartmouth College, New Hampshire; the entire Tulsa Junior College, Oklahoma; and a student center at Northwestern College, Iowa; are examples of buildings converted from other functions into college facilities. (MLF)

In seminar situations, more informed decisions might be made as a result of verbal exchanges if a free flow of ideas is possible, but this study suggests that status structures deter development towards sound logical conclusions. Status hierarchies occur, and periods of useless oratory support status systems at the expense of educational aims. The…

Discusses library buildings and their role in building community. Reviews current design trends, including reading and study spaces; collaborative workspaces; technology-free zones; archives and special collections; cultural events spaces; age-specific spaces; shared spaces; natural light and landscapes; and interior design trends. (LRW)

The article describes ways to encourage effective classroom computer use. Setup of the computer corner is crucial. A friendly corner should include things like explanatory posters, disk boxes, a digital clock, earphones, a timer, chairs, and a wheeled cart. A sign-up sheet encourages efficient scheduling, which is also critical. (SM)

Argues that the key to a successful move to a new facility for a library is advance planning, and suggests practical ways to make a smooth library transition to a new or newly renovated space. (LAE)

Success of a new educational facility is based on consistent vision and focus between the owner and the architect/interior designer. (MLF)

Offers 10 tips for renovating or building school washrooms that enhance user satisfaction while making them easier to maintain. Tips cover all aspects of school washroom design and highlights the following elements of effective washroom design development: user input; ease of maintenance; accessibility; and functionality. (GR)

Investigates conditions relating to the maximum useful-to-detrimental sound ratios present in classrooms and determining the optimum conditions for speech intelligibility. Reveals that speech intelligibility is more strongly influenced by ambient noise levels and that the optimal location for sound absorbing material is on a classroom's upper…

Explores locker-room design concepts that can be used to accommodate multipurpose athletic facilities and make the locker room more efficient and user friendly. Spaces are described that can be added to the typical locker room that will complement expanding facility functions. (GR)