When you think of an elementary school, what comes to mind? Beige walls, boxy buildings, and uninspired hallways? Spring Lake Elementary in Woodland, California, is anything but ordinary. Designed by HMC Architects and built by Otto Construction, this school is a bold statement on how educational spaces should look and feel. Featuring vibrant Trespa Meteon panels and translucent 3-Form elements, the school’s design fosters creativity, engagement, and play—exactly what a learning environment should do.

Stanford University has long been known for its blend of historic and modern architecture, and the Bass Biology Building is no exception. Designed by Flad Architects and Ennead Architects and built by Whiting-Turner, this state-of-the-art research facility balances contemporary design with a nod to the university’s iconic Mission Revival style. One of its most striking features is the immense aluminum and steel canopy, featuring red and orange fins reminiscent of Stanford’s terra cotta rooftops.

The University of California College of the Law, San Francisco has unveiled a new extension building designed by SOM. This project includes a beautiful new quad situated between the original building and the extension, as well as a roof terrace and balconies designed by Andrea Cochran Landscape Architecture. These outdoor spaces are enhanced with planters and benches by Tournesol, creating bright, airy areas where students and faculty can recharge in the heart of downtown San Francisco.