The ArchForKids Blog
Keep up with the latest ArchForKids news and learn about architecture related topics!
SEO Scholars Learn about Architecture in 5 Day Hands On Program
This week-long program was part of the SEO Scholars Career Exploration Week taking place during the last week of their summer long academy, an initiative aimed at exposing young minds to various career paths. For us, it was a chance to inspire the architects of tomorrow and provide them with an immersive experience in the world of architecture. We also hoped to teach some important critical skills to all of the students and inspire them regardless of their interest in becoming a future architect.
History of Architecture: A Brief overview of how architecture has developed and changed alongside human society
The history of architecture is a fascinating journey through time, reflecting the evolution of human civilization and the ever-changing needs and aspirations of societies. From the ancient wonders of the world to the innovative structures of today, architecture has been a fundamental expression of human creativity and ingenuity.
Sustainable Architecture Design & Environmentally Friendly Green Structures
Sustainable architecture design focuses on creating buildings and structures that minimize their environmental impact, promote energy efficiency, and prioritize the well-being of occupants. It involves incorporating eco-friendly practices, renewable resources, and innovative technologies to create structures that harmonize with the natural environment.
Students Design Green Space During Harrison Library Mini Camp
led a mini camp where local youth would design a green space for the Harrison Public Library in Harrison NY. Each session was 3 hours but the ideas these young designers came up with were endless. From a piano in the middle of the green space to add a nice ambiance, to a full golf course complete with a tunnel which explains the structure’s history. These kids, aged 3 to 12, did not fail to impress.
Welcoming in the New Year: Looking back at our 2021 & Featuring a special NYC School Residency
During a 10 week in-school residency at Queens’ PS232 Elementary School we worked with 3rd graders to produce a timeline of iconic and historical buildings in New York. We explored the architectural history of our city from the 1600’s all the way to the current era.Â
Arts Alive Grant Programs; Animal Architecture & Revisioning Vacant Lots
ArchForKids is happy to announce it received two grants from the Arts Alive program of ArtsWestchester. The first grant is a partnership with Yonkers Public Library to do four Animal Architecture programs this summer. These programs explored Animal Architecture and enhanced the 2021 summer reading theme of Tails and Tales. The second grant will fund the project, Teen Design Challenge: Revisioning Sleepy Hollow’s Vacant Spaces, an intensive design charrette for 30 local middle and high school students. Their challenge will be to transform five vacant spaces in Sleepy Hollow into something beautiful which will positively impact the community.
Showcasing Our Students: SONYC CSS Cycle 3 Afterschool Program
In this class, our students were exposed to a broad spectrum of topics in architecture and then asked to apply the academic concepts to real world situations. Some of our discussion topics included building types, architectural styles, architectural drawings, construction methods, building materials and structural forces. Our main goal is to inspire kids to examine their built environment with a new set of eyes, to start recognizing some of the unique features that give buildings character and distinguish them from one another.Â
Vacant Lots: How communities nationwide are repurposing them into community treasures
Vacant lots are a familiar part of urban landscapes all around America and have existed for many years. In the past, the most common approach of restoring these lots to utility has been by turning them into community vegetable gardens. However, in the last decade or so we have come to realize the incredible range of opportunities vacant lots represent in adding value to local communities. Whether it is through an exciting public art space inviting contemplation or a well-used neighborhood park where families and friends can relax and commune with nature, vacant lots are being re-imagined in myriad and novel ways.
Getting Back to In-Person Education in New York Schools
With the lessening of Covid related restrictions this semester, ArchForKids has been able to begin in-person programming once again. While there have been many positive sides to our virtual programs it is great to get back in schools as we have missed the level of engagement with students and teachers that we get from in-person instruction. We wondered how the new safety protocols would impact the lesson experience. We asked one of our educators, Jasmine Morris to share her experience teaching Pre-K through 1st grade students at the PS149 school in Brooklyn. Read her account below.Â
In Honor of Earth Day 2021; We Led a Tabletop Greenhouse Workshop
In a nod to Earth Day’s mission of educating and activating the environmental movement worldwide, ArchForKids hosted one of their most popular workshops, How Does Your Garden Grow? Tabletop Greenhouses on April 22, Earth Day 2021.