Construction And Renovation Trends For Education In 2019
Preparing students for life after school is a driving consideration for educational institutions at all levels. Construction planning and design centered around this priority are critical to creating an environment that prepares students to take the next step in life. As education institutions evolve and adapt to changes in the job market, the construction industry is ready to adapt along with them.
Here are six construction and renovation trends for educational institutions that we’re monitoring in 2019.
Multipurpose Buildings
Many high schools and college campuses are adapting buildings to serve more than one department, college, or purpose. Single-purpose school facilities are becoming obsolete as multipurpose buildings facilitate improved interaction and communication among interconnected departments, faculty, and staff. They streamline organization, cohesion, and collaboration across the campus in ways that have never been possible with single-purpose education facilities.
Libraries That Are Prepared for Tomorrow
In an increasingly digital world, libraries do more than just house books. As digitization allows access to information in a matter of seconds, libraries need to adapt to delivering and storing increasing amounts of data.
Libraries are changing to accommodate student services and resources such as academic coaching, writing centers, peer tutoring, career counseling, and even 3D printing. Newer libraries are meeting the changing needs of students by prioritizing ready access to power outlets, warmer lighting, clean designs, increased comfort, and a variety of collaboration spaces balanced with quiet study spaces.
First Impressions Matter
As education becomes an increasingly competitive industry, institutions understand more than ever the importance of making a powerful first impression. New and retrofitted campus buildings can stand as centerpieces to leave lasting first impressions while tying the campus together.
Community Engagement
As students grow weary of “bubble campuses,” some colleges and universities are using their buildings to form a sense of cohesion with the neighborhoods they’re a part of. Many campuses are opening themselves up to the community with multipurpose spaces that are also used by local entrepreneurs, businesses, and cultural centers.
Renovation and Reconstruction
More institutions are prioritizing capital renewal over capital investment. Renovation and reconstruction allow schools to get more out of their budget. Because buildings are typically well maintained and remain structurally sound, they’re often prime candidates for more modern upgrades and investments. Some schools are building for 100-year life spans to prioritize sustainability with timeless, durable materials that are designed to last.
Liberal Arts Still Matter
While schools have been heavily emphasizing STEM programs, liberal arts are still relevant. Even students focusing on STEM understand the need for balancing out their education with the critical thinking and writing skills honed by liberal arts disciplines. Finding a way to design and build facilities that accommodate a variety of disciplines while helping students achieve a well-rounded education remains a priority for institutions at all levels.
Want to learn more about how Brandt can help optimize the learning environment by incorporating the latest construction strategies? Contact our experts today to take the next step.