Sezin School: Kindergarten & Primary School

Transforming an educational institution via incremental architectural interventions

Redesigning learning environments with a participatory, user-centered approach for a flexible and future-ready educational space.

Year & Location

2018-2020, Türkiye

Industry

Education

Scope

Architectural Design, Interior Design,
Furniture Design, Experience Design

Offering

Architecture

100 +

Hours of Field Research

75 %

Increase Top 1% High School Exam Rankings

2

Awards Won

50 %

Increase in Student Progression to Middle School

40 %

Reduction in Teacher Turnover

THE CHALLENGE

ATÖLYE was invited to reimagine the spaces where children begin their educational journey at Sezin. The goal was to break free from traditional, outdated classroom designs that prioritized extroverted students and group dynamics, while neglecting the quieter, more introspective learning styles. To achieve this, it was essential to create spaces that fostered creativity, collaboration, and inclusivity, empowering both students and teachers to explore new ways of learning and teaching.

THE TRANSFORMATION APPROACH

Instead of sticking to conventional classroom layouts, ATÖLYE introduced flexible, modular systems designed to inspire curiosity and foster a deeper engagement with learning. A surprising insight emerged during the process: the need for a “stage” where students could confidently present their ideas, as well as individual desk spaces to allow for a personal sense of territory. Responding to this, we designed lighting that served multiple purposes, including spotlights to highlight student presentations. We also created distinct zones within the school, from personal spaces to larger shared areas, encouraging the transition from personal reflection to group interaction.

THE IMPACT

By creating an environment that encourages both quiet introspection and active collaboration, the spaces at Sezin School now support a more dynamic and flexible approach to learning. Students are empowered to engage in a variety of activities, whether it’s working alone at their personalized desks, presenting in front of the class, or collaborating with peers. The spaces stimulate curiosity and creative thinking, providing both students and teachers the freedom to adapt and personalize their learning environments. This approach has led to a 75% increase in students ranking in the top 1% in high school exams and a 40% reduction in teacher turnover rates, demonstrating how a thoughtfully designed space can drive both academic and professional success.

THE COMMUNITY LENS

The transformation of Sezin School goes beyond design; it’s a shift in how the entire community interacts and learns together. Teachers and students were deeply involved in the process, ensuring the spaces reflected their needs and fostering a true sense of ownership. This collaborative effort has not only enhanced the educational environment but also strengthened relationships within the school, promoting a culture of mutual respect and active engagement. The approach developed here serves as a model for other educational institutions, showing how thoughtful design can cultivate creativity, curiosity, and collaboration, while nurturing a sense of belonging and shared purpose in schools across the region.