From an elementary school in Brooklyn with an edible garden and chicken coop, to plans for a storm-resistant high school in the Philippines inspired by the devastating effects of Typhoon Haiyan, these institutions prove how architects are collaborating with educators to create some very exciting opportunities.

Studies have shown how color, lighting, and other classroom design choices can have an important impact on student progress, and these design-forward projects not only beautify spaces—creating a comfortable environment in which to learn—but they also tackle a variety of social and environmental issues.

Make sure to shop our back-to-school picks for kids, undergrads, graduate students, and more.

An Edible Learning Garden in Brooklyn

Casis Elementary School's Teaching Garden in Austin

Dilapidated Residence-Turned-Preschool in New Delhi

A Forgotten Insurance Building Becomes a High School

Rebuilding Schools Through Art and Community

A Happy Renovation For the Oslo International School

Sustainable Modern School Planned For Rural Mexico

A Storm-Resistant School Concept in the Philippines

Cutting-Edge Dorms That Embrace the Landscape

LEED Gold-Rated Buildings at the ASU Polytechnic Campus

The Raymond and Susan Brochstein Pavilion at Rice University

Also Appears In

11 Innovative and Modern Schools Where Creativity and Good Design Rule