Where do we learn to design? A case study about creative spaces

Based on a research approach with cultural probes, we analysed the work environments of a German design school. We identified five different types of spaces on the university's campus and within the classrooms - the "solitary space", the "team space", the "tinker space", the "presentation space", as well as "transition spaces". Each of these space types is able to provide certain functions that may support the creative working and learning process, such as stimulation, knowledge repository, culture, social interaction, and process manifestation. We analyse positive and negative aspects of the respective educational institution, and derive suggestions on how to improve the spatial learning environment. The work presented in this article may be used as a foundation for design educators and practitioners to analyse and improve their creative workspaces.