a heart for learning
As an outcome of a focused master planning effort led by AMDG, Ada Christian School and AMDG Architects reimagined 12,500 square feet of existing library space. Student life and learning at Ada Christian now converge into a vibrant, student-focused, collaborative learning space at the heart of the school. The hub enhances connection between existing wings and provides access and visibility to a technology lab, collaborative breakout spaces and media resources. The successful result allows the school to better serve its mission of equipping students for service in God’s world and nurturing academic excellence in Christian community.
The school’s library was thoughtfully transformed into a modern learning space, preserving familiar and distinctively “Ada Christian” elements, while introducing new breakout spaces, a mezzanine loft, and flexible learning zones. A cozy fireplace provides a setting for quiet reading, the mezzanine loft expands study opportunities in an inspiring, elevated setting. A maker space with 3D printers, robotics, and internal sound editing booth offer dedicated space for innovative, hands-on learning. Imaginative book and media display and storage woven through seating, reading nooks, and a major tree element provide comfortable and flexible space for students to engage and learn.
A new breakout classroom was introduced as a creative solution to scheduling challenges. Designed for flexibility, it provides a highly visible yet engaging space that enhances student participation. This adaptable classroom, along with other breakout areas, offers opportunities for small-group collaboration, independent study, and interactive learning.
The success of this project was made possible through a strong partnership between Ada Christian School, AMDG, and Dan Vos Construction. Careful planning allowed for phased construction, minimizing disruption during the school year and maximizing work during summer break.
Successful outcomes are the result of fidelity to design principles informed by faculty, administration and parents. Those principles of purposeful learning, community building, a visible mission, and inviting atmospheres emerged from careful listening by AMDG and deep understanding of Ada Christian School’s mission and vision. The redesigned core serves the entire school community—students, teachers, staff and parents—through connection, engagement and learning.
