News Summary
The University of Oklahoma’s Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture has received national recognition for its Urban Learning Greenhouse project, which has been awarded the 2026 Design-Build Award from the ACSA. This innovative project serves as both a classroom and a center for urban agriculture, promoting hands-on learning and community engagement. The Urban Learning Greenhouse exemplifies the integration of STEAM education and ecological literacy for elementary students while fostering important partnerships between academic programs and local communities.
Oklahoma City, OK – The University of Oklahoma’s Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture has received national recognition for its innovative approach to education and community engagement through the Urban Learning Greenhouse project. Honored with a 2026 Design-Build Award from the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), the project exemplifies the integration of hands-on learning and real-world application in Oklahoma City’s higher education landscape.
This award signifies more than just architectural achievement; it showcases the university’s commitment to enhancing academic programs and fostering community impact. The Urban Learning Greenhouse is a testament to the importance of collaborative, interdisciplinary education that prepares students for leadership roles in their future careers, while also addressing pressing social and environmental issues in the community.
A Model of Interdisciplinary Collaboration
The Urban Learning Greenhouse was co-led by Ken Marold, a lecturer in Architecture, and Bryan Bloom, an Assistant Professor of Construction Science. This project was not only an academic exercise; it became a living laboratory for students to engage with real clients and community members while honing their skills in various fields.
Transforming Community Spaces
Situated in an underutilized area of an elementary schoolyard in downtown Oklahoma City, the greenhouse serves as both a classroom and a center for urban agriculture. This initiative directly supports STEAM education—science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics—while promoting ecological literacy among children. Through its sustainable design and interactive outdoor classroom setup, the greenhouse emphasizes the connections between food cultivation and environmental stewardship.
Hands-On Learning and Student Engagement
Across two academic semesters, students from architecture and construction science worked collaboratively from conceptual planning through to the completion of construction. This hands-on experience involved a comprehensive learning process that included client engagement, digital modeling, budgeting, scheduling, and assembly. The greenhouse not only provides a functional space for students but also serves as a vital educational resource, linking theoretical knowledge with practical application.
Acknowledgment and Future Opportunities
The ACSA’s Design-Build Award recognizes projects that transform educational practices into socially responsible outcomes. The award recipients will be formally honored at the 2026 ACSA Annual Meeting, where they will present the Urban Learning Greenhouse project to educators and practitioners from across North America, further showcasing the university’s role as an educational leader.
Commitment to Community Engagement
Since its inception in 2018, the American School Design-Build program at the Gibbs College of Architecture has been pivotal in providing students with meaningful, hands-on experiences. The Urban Learning Greenhouse is just one example of how the college fosters partnerships between students and the local community, promoting academic excellence while addressing community needs.
Conclusion
The Urban Learning Greenhouse reflects the University of Oklahoma’s dedication to advancing educational opportunities through innovative approaches that integrate classroom learning with community engagement. As this award-winning project continues to serve the local community, it serves as an inspiration for future educational initiatives. Readers are encouraged to explore more programs and projects from the University of Oklahoma, engage with campus events, and support the thriving college community that is making a significant impact in Oklahoma City.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Award | 2026 Design-Build Award from ACSA |
| Leaders | Ken Marold, Bryan Bloom |
| Project Duration | Two academic semesters |
| Focus Areas | STEAM education, urban agriculture, ecological literacy |
| Year Program Started | 2018 |
FAQ
- What is the University of Oklahoma’s Urban Learning Greenhouse?
The Urban Learning Greenhouse is a project developed by the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture that serves as an outdoor classroom and a center for urban agriculture, enhancing STEAM education and ecological literacy for elementary students. - Who led the Urban Learning Greenhouse project?
The project was co-led by Ken Marold, a lecturer in Architecture, and Bryan Bloom, an assistant professor of Construction Science. - What recognition did the project receive?
The Urban Learning Greenhouse was awarded the 2026 Design-Build Award from the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA). - How does the project impact the local community?
The greenhouse transforms an underutilized schoolyard into a functional outdoor classroom that promotes sustainability, food cultivation, and environmental awareness among students. - When will award recipients be recognized?
Award recipients will be formally recognized at the 2026 ACSA Annual Meeting.
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