For architects and designers, the studio culture and environment is essential to our work. It’s where we think individually and work collaboratively. It’s where we exchange ideas. Where we get and give feedback. Where we learn from and teach each other. Our AFSF architecture studios bring that to our virtual studio. We have group discussions as well as 1-on-1 “desk crits” about the project. And to create a robust studio environment, all AFSF architecture studios include using a digital pin-up wall. Here, students can post and share their work. Our digital pin-up wall allows us to see and hear examples of other architect’s work though video, images, and group discussion.

The AFSF architecture studios are project-based studios. Our studio curriculum introduces high school students to the Design Process & Design Thinking. The process is iterative and exploratory and it’s our path to creative problem solving. It cultivates boldness, creativity, and imagination alongside structure, analysis, and design decision-making. For architects, our design process pushes us to be inspired and to inspire others through our work. In our AFSF architecture studios, we take the mystery out of the creative process so students can succeed in exploring and giving shape to their ideas.

Architecture is a practice-based profession in which we learn by doing. It’s a profession based on mentoring and constant learning. Drawing on 30 years of inspired design education programming, our studio instructors and mentors come directly from the architecture and design professions as well as related engineering and construction sectors. Our studio instructors create a supportive and collegial environment to provide design instruction based on their own architectural educational/work experience and knowledge of the profession. Our studios mirror the creative energy, collaboration, and professionalism of a design studio.

The AFSF architecture studios are an opportunity for students to discover and gain a broader knowledge of architecture and to develop the skills to express their design ideas. The projects in the AFSF studios are challenging and aspirational and are often based on real life projects and design competitions. Whether it’s a student’s first time in an architecture studio course or they come with previous experience we structure the studios so ALL students have the time and support to develop, show, and share their ideas..

Architects use a range of tools in the design process and the AFSF architecture studios introduce these to students. Students look at precedents to gain a broader understanding of the project, learn essential architectural terms and formats, and develop presentation skills. And knowing there is no single media for designing a project we introduce students to a range of design tools, both digital and analog.

AFSF is committed to supporting and mentoring students as they go forward in their educational and career pathways. Participating in AFSF architecture studios provides students the opportunity connection with architecture & design professionals. These connections can translate to future letters of recommendation, portfolio input and mentoring, internship & work opportunities, as well as leadership development.