In this episode of SPACES, architect Todd Ferking returns to the show to discuss the future of learning environments. He shares his decision to leave a national leadership role at DLR Group and launch Arcis Studio, a consultancy focused on helping school districts and design teams establish the vision, educational strategy, and planning foundations that lead to more meaningful learning environments.

We revisit his work on Compton High School and Centennial High School, including the challenge of creating innovative educational facilities within California’s exceptionally high construction costs. Todd also explains how program visibility, interdisciplinary connections, smaller learning communities, and stronger relationships between students and adults can influence learning and school safety.

We also look ahead to the impact of artificial intelligence on education and the built environment. If students can increasingly receive personalized instruction through digital tools, should schools continue dedicating most of their space to traditional classrooms? Or could the schools of the future become application hubs—places where students gather to experiment, build, collaborate, socialize, and put knowledge into practice?

In this episode:

• Why Todd launched Arcis Studio after 25 years with DLR Group
• The importance of establishing educational vision before design begins
• Lessons from the planning and design of Compton and Centennial High Schools
• Designing flexible, visible, and interdisciplinary learning environments
• Why California schools must accomplish more with less space
• Creating stronger connections between career technical education and core academics
• Approaching school safety through relationships, scale, and layered security
• How AI could transform teaching, learning, and educational facilities
• Reimagining schools as hubs for application, creation, and collaboration

As discussed:

ARCIS Studio

Todd Ferking on LinkedIn

SPACES episode 12: Schools

LYNES

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