In education, we always discuss curriculum, instructional strategies, and assessment, yet one of the most influential but overlooked components of learning is the very space in which it happens. Learning space is a huge passion of mine that I don’t always have a chance to engage in for my work despite seeing so many times where it could be a huge point of learning. A few weeks back, I had the space to bring this topic to life as part my ongoing Play PD I have been lucky enough to share with a group of fantastic induction coaches. In the latest session we explored two sessions of guest experts and this post is focused on learning space design, featuring Lene Jensby Lange from Autens in Denmark. Her insights reaffirmed a powerful idea: our spaces tell a story about what we value in education. Every single time I get a chance to spent time with her in person or virtually I walk away with so many more fantastic ideas to push my thinking.
The Third Teacher: How Spaces Shape Learning
Lene’s approach to learning space design challenges the status quo of traditional classroom layouts. She emphasized that learning spaces act as the “third teacher,” influencing engagement, creativity, and student ownership of learning. During the session, we explored how spaces communicate expectations, culture, and behaviors—sometimes more powerfully than spoken instructions.
We were invited to analyze images of different learning environments, identifying the elements that resonated with them. Common themes emerged: flexibility, collaboration, sensory engagement, and student autonomy. Educators were drawn to spaces that provided a mix of open areas, quiet nooks, and areas designed for both collaboration and independent thinking. There was a clear desire for spaces that move beyond rows of desks to encourage movement, discussion, and student agency. And yet….how often do we continue to see rows of desks in schools to this day?
Beyond Aesthetics: Designing for Purpose
The conversation naturally shifted from aesthetics to intentionality. What does a well-designed learning space truly offer? Lene presented a powerful contrast: schools often articulate ambitious, student-centered missions, yet their physical spaces reinforce outdated models of compliance and passive learning. If we want to cultivate creativity, inquiry, and collaboration, our spaces must invite those behaviors.
One of the most compelling exercises involved using Miro to redesign a classroom layout. Educators worked in teams to experiment with flexible furniture, alternative seating arrangements, and interactive elements. The goal was not just to make classrooms “look nice,” but to create environments that actively support how students learn best.
Practical Shifts: Low-Cost, High-Impact Changes
Not every school has the budget for a full redesign, but small, thoughtful changes can significantly impact student engagement. Some of the most practical takeaways from the session included:
- Rearrange Existing Furniture: Simple shifts, such as grouping desks into pods or creating more open space, can facilitate different types of learning.
- Incorporate Nature: Even adding plants or using natural light strategically can create a calmer, more welcoming environment.
- Offer Flexible Seating: Allowing students to choose where and how they work (bean bags, standing desks, floor spaces) fosters autonomy.
- Personalization: Giving students ownership over elements of the space (such as class-created displays or movable furniture) can increase investment in learning.
- Micro-Adjustments: Adding items like blankets, fidget tools, or alternative lighting options can support student well-being.
Designing Spaces for What Matters Most
At the heart of learning space design is a fundamental question: What do we want our students to experience? If we envision learners who are curious, collaborative, and engaged, our spaces must reflect and facilitate those qualities. Spaces should not be barriers to learning but rather catalysts for creativity and deep thinking.
As we continue to rethink education, let’s not underestimate the power of the environments we create. Whether through small adjustments or large-scale redesigns, intentionality in learning space design can transform the student experience. This session was a reminder that our classrooms are more than just rooms—they are ecosystems of possibility.
So, what story is your learning space telling? And how might you begin rewriting it to better serve your students?
Here is PDF of some of the results created and discussed on the Miro when we worked during our time together
And here is the video with time cut during work time. The entire session was one hour as we worked in small groups and planned out ideas, but I cut their convos out of respect.
Additional Resources
Back in 2020 I had Lene on my podcast and it is still such a powerful conversation
Additional Learning Space Podcast Episodes and PD’s I have done in previous years
Self Care and Space with Dr. Dillon
Further Learning Space Tours, Design, and PD
And as I was looking back at older posts, I found this convo I had about building out communities which is another step to this dialogue about learning spaces and creating community.
Finally, this piece from back in 2015 where I talk about creating a culture of learning before you build a makerspace(remember when that was all the craze!) strikes some recent feelings I have had when working with several schools as we explore engagement.
Leave a Reply