a lab/classroom redesign

Just came back from an interesting meeting. It's still in the (very) preliminary stages, so there's a long way to go, but figured I'd post the notes I took because they're undertaking a redesign project for a room that seems to have some some uncommon challenges:

"How to maximize space for # of students able to use the lab? Also, furniture, layout, uses, etc.

Flat space for (complementary) non-computer work is important. 25 students max? Need to be able to accommodate professional workshops, very long sessions (need better chairs rated for longer use). Those long sessions also wind up needing to use breakout rooms. Also used for weekend retreats, and space is at a premium. Overflow to East Campus Union for more space, but Union lab space isn't as useful.

The room is often used for teaching the creative process. Software is user friendly, so not a lot of time spent showing things up on the projector. Much more collaborative. Maybe screen sharing for presentation machine to display any student machine?

Lots of materials (often something big they're carrying from another class) that get stored on the big tables (when they're not being used for conversation or collaboration).

It's an older room, so there is a distinct lack of outlets for laptops in the room. Cables are often stretched across the floor creating hazards for walking (there needs to be outlets need to be in center of the room at each of the big tables).

Stressed multiple times, it is very important for instructors to be able to move quickly and easily through the room. Also there is a strong desire for fluidity to move from computer to physical collaboration and conversation.

If it shifts to a laptop classroom, it may be something where they'd like large displays (and/or possibly video-based Wacom tablet devices) to facilitate collaboration.

Looking for furniture that was designed to be convertible from one purpose to another & allow for the degree of flexibility needed (not sure if they're looking for something like Spectrum's convertible desk). Flexibility, traffic pattern, and collaboration are the three key elements. The Lectra software is a complicating factor that may tend to push away from laptops because of the computing power required (and licensing restrictions). Scheduling software may be critical for logistics as the room becomes more flexible. A move toward laptops would prevent open lab time. Probably a mixture of machine types? Air handling and climate control also a factor (especially for cooling in the summer). Also want to consider swapping purposes with a much larger room."