A Collaborative Redesign for Flexible, Future-Ready Classrooms

Norwell Community Schools partnered with Schmidt Associates and Business Furniture + Co to reimagine Ossian Elementary—not simply to update the building, but as an intentional investment in the future of education. The vision: create adaptable, organized and engaging spaces that support the evolving needs of students and educators alike.

“Our team worked closely with Norwell Community Schools to bring a fresh look and feel to this building. From flexible furnishings to vibrant finishes and custom graphics, every detail was selected to create a modern, student-centered learning environment.”
— Kathryn Roche, Interior Designer, Schmidt Associates

Key Renovation Highlights

Originally designed with built-in casework and static layouts, the classrooms limited flexibility and collaboration. The outdated casework did not fit the materials for today’s curriculum and resulted in a lot of wasted, vertical space.

“During our observation and programming, it was clear that flexibility was a key need and directive—and storage wasn’t supporting it. So, we placed all the storage on casters, giving teachers the freedom to rearrange the room as needed.”
— Dainen Tolman, Director of K12 education, Business Furniture + Co

To bring that vision to life, the renovation introduced several key upgrades:

• Introduced mobile, configurable furniture to support diverse teaching and learning styles
• Enhanced storage with lockers, redesigned casework and increased accessibility
• Installed new flooring, paint and custom graphics to create an inviting, dynamic atmosphere

This wasn’t just a visual refresh — it was a bold rethinking of classroom design. By replacing outdated built-ins with 100% mobile solutions, the project prioritized flexibility without compromising function.

Survey Results: How Teachers Experienced the Change

To measure the renovation’s impact, educators from kindergarten through fifth grade were surveyed. Their responses confirm what we know to be true: thoughtful, flexible design empowers both teaching and learning.

Storage That Supports Organization

Teachers immediately felt the benefits of mobile totes and vertical storage. Classrooms became more organized, and everyday materials were easier to access.

• 80.65% of teachers reported improved organization
• 75% found it easier to access materials during lessons
• 58.06% said they did not miss features from the old storage system
• Storage earned an average satisfaction score of 75 out of 100

Flexibility That Fuels Teaching

Every educator surveyed said the new furnishings improved their instructional delivery. Whether rearranging for group projects or shifting layouts between activities, the mobility of the classroom enhanced teaching effectiveness.

• 100% reported the furniture improved lesson delivery
• 100% found the new storage system more effective for teaching
• 60% actively use reconfigurable furniture
• 20.69% rearranged classroom elements monthly to support evolving needs

One educator shared how an entire grade level came together for a hands-on science experiment—something that simply wasn’t possible with static furniture in the past. Thanks to mobile furniture, teachers were able to quickly push everything to the edges of the classroom, creating an open, collaborative space for all students to participate. With all storage placed on casters, classroom layouts can now be adjusted easily and independently, without disrupting the flow of the day.

“Their request was ambitious and progressive — a perfect match for our design approach— to replace all existing casework with 100% mobile solutions. It challenged us to rethink how classrooms can function.”
— Kathryn Roche, interior designer, Schmidt Associates

A Boost in Student Engagement

Beyond functionality, the refreshed environment positively influenced student behavior and engagement.

• 86.67% of teachers noticed improved student behavior and focus
• 50% observed an increase in student interaction

The district’s leadership also noted a shift in mindset: fixed casework is no longer practical in today’s elementary classrooms, where flexibility is not just a preference — it’s a necessity. As Superintendent Mike Springer of Norwell Community Schools put it, this renovation “really challenged all of us to think about what we’re truly trying to accomplish in our learning environments.”

Lasting Impact Through Purposeful Design

The Ossian Elementary renovation is a testament to what’s possible when servant leadership, innovation and collaboration come together. Backed by measurable gains in engagement, organization and instructional flow, this transformation sets a new standard for K–12 learning environments.

“I’ve told teachers that this kind of upgrade really only happens once in a career. Whether it’s a new building or a renovation — getting something brand new like this is pretty special.”
— Theresa Casto, Principal, Ossian Elementary

Ossian shows what’s possible when schools lead with vision—and design listens. Ossian Elementary is a proud example of how we partner with schools to turn their goals into dynamic, purpose-built spaces where students and educators can thrive.