Renovation Reflections: Reimagining Your Space

By | June 7, 2025

Renovation Reflections: Reimagining Your Space –  at ISTE 2015 this summer in Philadelphia.  I love reading and studying space design theory.  I truly feel that innovative learning environments can transform the way our students learn.  This book is a great introduction to active learning spaces and the strategies we can use to design and redesign learning spaces, from hacking our furniture to working with architects on new construction.

“Even teachers who embrace active learning pedagogies and who know how to integrate technology into the curriculum are shackled by ineffective learning environments: classrooms that do not support communication and collaboration; chairs that are too large and heavy for students to move; tables and desks that make group work, mentoring, information sharing and content creation difficult.” ~Sean Corcorran, General Manager, Learning Environments and Personalized Learning at Steelcase Education

Renovation Reflections: Reimagining Your Space

A big focus of this book was how an active learning environment can support personalized learning, the four C’s (creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking), and learning in the digital age.  I love how the authors brought some of these important terms into the educational lexicon and demonstrated the impact the physical environment can have on them.  When it comes to writing grants and advocating for changes in learning spaces, having vocabulary like this is essential.

Home Remodeling In Lafayette, In

One thing I love about this book is that it doesn’t leave out pedagogy.  You can have a classroom full of amazing, state-of-the-art collaborative furniture, but if the teacher is still teaching with the lecture/fact regurgitation/repetition method, learning will not be transformed.  The authors emphasize providing support and training to teachers who will utilize new learning spaces so that their pedagogy can make effective use of the space.

One thing I love about the Get Active book is that it doesn’t leave out pedagogy. Click to tweet

The book provides a fantastic list of the various types of learning spaces that schools should support: small group areas, large group areas, technology-rich areas, quiet and solitary areas, community-accessible areas, and makerspaces.  When going through the process of transforming my library’s physical space, I had many of these functions in mind.  It also details things to consider when looking for furniture (comfort, ergonomics, flexibility, mobility, and durability) and other things to consider for your space (storage, writable surfaces, lighting, displays, etc.)

“The space should encourage all students to take control of their own learning and expand their curiosity and experience beyond their comfort zones.” Books recommended in this book:

Expert Whole House Remodel Services In Thornton, Co

I always enjoy seeing where authors get inspiration from.  I’ve read several of these books and I can attest that they are incredible.

If you haven’t read Get Active yet, I highly recommend you pick up a copy.  Whether you’re planning a large-scale renovation or just want to change the feel of your classroom or library, you’ll find some good ideas here.

Welcome to Renewed Learning.  My name is Diana and this blog is my space to share resources, ideas, and more about makerspace, libraries, and learning space design.  First time here?  Visit my Start Here page to learn more about the blog and resources here.  Looking for something specific?  Use the menu bar or search option at the top of the screen.  Feel free to click and stay a while. In the evolving landscape of residential architecture, the decision between rebuilding a new home and renovating an existing one has never been more complex. As we venture into 2024, a year marked by innovative construction methods, a growing emphasis on sustainability and changing lifestyle needs, homeowners face a crucial choice. This decision is not merely financial; it encompasses lifestyle, environmental impact and the potential to shape a person’s space for decades to come.

One of the main considerations in today’s architectural decisions is sustainability. Renovating an existing structure often presents an opportunity to improve energy efficiency without the extensive carbon footprint associated with new construction. Retrofitting a home with the latest energy-efficient technology, from solar panels to high-performance insulation, can significantly reduce its environmental impact. However, it is essential to assess whether the existing framework can support these upgrades or whether a green-certified new construction would better align with your sustainability goals.

Our Favorite Kitchen Remodels To Inspire Your Project

The financial aspect is a critical component of the debate between reconstruction and renovation. While renovation may be cheaper at first, hidden costs often arise, especially in older homes that may require extensive updates to electrical, plumbing or structural elements. Reconstruction, on the other hand, offers a clear budget from the start, but usually at a higher total cost. It is vital to carry out a thorough cost-benefit analysis, considering both immediate expenses and long-term savings, especially when it comes to energy efficiency and maintenance.

The pandemic has reshaped our understanding of home, highlighting the need for adaptable spaces that can accommodate remote work, fitness and leisure activities. Renovations allow homeowners to adjust their existing space to meet these needs, often with creative solutions that add character and functionality. The reconstruction offers a blank slate, allowing for the incorporation of modern design principles, open floor plans, and custom features that precisely meet the homeowner’s evolving lifestyle needs.

Time is a luxury that not everyone can afford. Renovations can vary greatly in length, sometimes taking longer than anticipated due to unforeseen problems or delays in the availability of materials. Reconstruction is generally a longer process, but with a well-defined schedule that can be predicted more reliably. The decision here often depends on the homeowner’s schedule and their ability to accommodate disruptions to daily life, whether undergoing a renovation or temporarily relocating during a reconstruction.

For many, a home is more than a structure; it is a repository of memories and a reflection of personal history. The choice to preserve and breathe new life into an existing home can be deeply emotional, while maintaining a sense of continuity and heritage. Reconstruction offers the opportunity to create a legacy by creating a space that embodies one’s values ​​and vision for the future, whilst recognizing that some tangible links to the past may be lost.

Reimaging The Keller Auditorium — Halprin Landscape Conservancy

The decision to rebuild or renovate in 2024 is deeply personal, influenced by a range of financial, environmental and emotional factors. It requires a careful balance between the spirit of sustainability, budgetary realities, functional needs, time constraints and personal values. Engaging with an architectural professional can provide clarity, offering insights into the potential of your existing property and guiding you through the complex landscape of modern construction. Ultimately, whether you choose to renovate your current home or embark on the journey of building a new one, the goal remains the same: create a space that resonates with your identity, meets your needs, and aligns with your vision for the future.Thinking about a home renovation? These five renovation trends are stylish, practical, and worth every penny. Imagine convertible spaces that transition from an office to a guest room or a dedicated laundry room that keeps chores organized and easy. A large kitchen with a central island becomes the heart of the home, perfect for family gatherings. Built-in storage keeps everything organized and organized. And for those who work from home, a dedicated home office is essential. These upgrades will transform your home into a haven of comfort and efficiency!

Stephanie and Jim’s home renovation dreams hit a snag when their contractor disappeared, leaving their plans for a spacious, modern living area in limbo. The small, outdated kitchen and disconnected layout of the home stifled her lifestyle. Taking action, our design and construction firm embraced the challenge, transforming their space by demolishing walls to create a cohesive kitchen and dining area, complete with a center island, a built-in cafe, and a relocated laundry room for greater functionality. The renovation introduced a new aesthetic of white and navy cabinets, sleek quartz countertops, and a stylish backsplash, truly revitalizing your home and transforming it into a haven of style and comfort.

Undertaking a series of renovations, including remodeling two bathrooms, modernizing the kitchen, and renovating the fireplace, the project was a huge undertaking. They chose to relocate temporarily during the process, trusting us to bring their vision to life, and the results exceeded their expectations. This couple, driven by their love of life’s simple pleasures, wanted to create a space that not only looked fantastic but also matched their personalities and needs. Their kitchen was outdated with limited storage, and the bathroom needed a renovation. Despite a well-proportioned fireplace, its worn appearance needed attention. Furthermore, the poorly lit bathroom with outdated fixtures was awaiting a transformation. With enthusiasm, they saw this as their final renovation, aiming for exceptional results.

Embark on a journey with us as we delve into the captivating story of Colleen and Randy’s kitchen remodel, a project that perfectly combined functionality with elegance. Facing the common problem of a distracting bathroom adjacent to the kitchen, we embarked on a mission to reimagine your space and create a kitchen that not only meets your needs but also reflects your vibrant lifestyle.

Home Remodeling & Renovation In Alexandria & Springfield, Va

Refresh your home in 2024 with a stylish kitchen, serene bathroom, and sophisticated living spaces. Elevate your guest areas with elegant decor and transform guest rooms into luxurious retreats. Pay