by Michelle Carpenter | Nov 20, 2024 | Inspiration
In the ever-changing world of education, understanding a student’s mind is as important as delivering knowledge. Today’s educators, architects, and designers are presented with a pivotal question: How do we create spaces that not only facilitate academic learning but...
by Michelle Carpenter | Jan 11, 2024 | Inspiration
Whether it’s the beginning, middle, or end of a school term, the learning environment plays a crucial role in making a lasting impression. At Natural Pod, we believe in creating a calm canvas that allows learners to flourish and take ownership of their spaces....
by Michelle Carpenter | Nov 2, 2023 | Inspiration
Now that it’s November, it’s official; the holiday season has arrived! Ok, maybe it’s a little early, but it’s never too early to pause and reflect, and set intentional plans for seasons to come. For school leaders and design professionals, this year has brought...
by Michelle Carpenter | Sep 13, 2023 | Inspiration
In the realm of education, where many institutions often find comfort in tradition, the Cranston Public School District has boldly stepped into the future. With the creation of the new Garden City Elementary school, they’ve painted a vivid picture of...
by Michelle Carpenter | Aug 22, 2023 | Inspiration
Have you ever sat down on a piece of furniture and pondered its origins or the stories it might tell? Bridgitte Alomes, the Founder of Natural Pod, encourages us to look at our surroundings with a fresh perspective, turning often-overlooked objects into learning...
by Michelle Carpenter | Jul 25, 2023 | Inspiration
Imagine stepping into a learning space that’s not just a place for imparting knowledge, but a thriving hub that stirs imagination, creativity, and overall educational experiences. Such spaces, teeming with versatility and adaptability, are not merely constructs...
by Michelle Carpenter | Jul 13, 2023 | Inspiration
Choice—a daily principle we all value—has earned its rightful place in modern classrooms. We’ve extended the joy of choice beyond the curriculum, incorporating it into the very heart of our educational landscape. Take mealtime, an everyday situation, where it is...
by Michelle Carpenter | Jun 28, 2023 | Inspiration
Take a moment to pause and look at the tree outside your window. Notice its expansive branches, the delicate sway of its leaves, and the texture of its bark. In the presence of nature, we often feel a deep sense of calm and connection to the world around us. As...
by Michelle Carpenter | Jun 15, 2023 | Inspiration
At a time of dynamic shifts in learning environments, tight timelines, and limited budgets, educators are facing the challenge of realizing their lofty goals for both education and sustainability. Often, expedience compromises excellence, leaving educators...
by Michelle Carpenter | Jun 8, 2023 | Inspiration
At Natural Pod, we believe that sustainability is more than just certifications and labels. It’s about continuously evaluating our choices to ensure they are the best for both people and the planet. With this ethos in mind, we are excited to share the remarkable...
by Michelle Carpenter | Feb 6, 2023 | B Corp, Inspiration
The Natural Pod team believes we can create better learning environments for all ages, while being deeply committed to people and the planet. There is great work to be done to be responsible stewards of our environment throughout our business, leading to a positive...
by Michelle Carpenter | Jan 18, 2023 | Inspiration
Our 2022 word of the year was partnership. Through intentional partnerships we were able to impact learners and educators in new, meaningful ways. Leaders in learning (aka you!) created better learning environments all around the world! Some of you impacted spaces...
by Michelle Carpenter | Nov 22, 2022 | Inspiration
“We Want A School!” – a book illustrating how children define the learning spaces they truly want & need. “We Want a School,” written and illustrated by Enrico Giori and the learners of Grade 5B of the Caracciolo Elementary School Milan, explores from...
by Michelle Carpenter | Oct 17, 2022 | Inspiration
The Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) is a non-profit, interdisciplinary association of professionals working at the intersection of learning and place to drive the evolution of learning environments. Made up of regions and chapters across the globe, their...
by Michelle Carpenter | Jul 18, 2022 | Inspiration
To further support Natural Pod’s growth and impact in the world, we are delighted to welcome two new solutions team members: Tania Crosbie and Chris Jack. As education advocates, they will bring exceptional partnership to educators and planners who are working to...
by Michelle Carpenter | Jul 8, 2022 | Inspiration
Natural Pod, a Canadian educational furniture manufacturer, curated with five leading sustainability-focused brands a mixed-material collection of furniture and textiles. The selected products not only aim to enhance the tactile experience and harmonious visual...
by Michelle Carpenter | May 4, 2022 | Inspiration
Our very own Michelle Carpenter, Chief Strategy Officer of Natural Pod, is A4LE SchoolsNEXT Southeast Chair, National Co-Chair, and committed to the future of the SchoolsNEXT student design competition. Last year she documented her participation experience in the...
by Michelle Carpenter | Feb 3, 2022 | Inspiration
Since the beginning days of the industrial model, learning environments have been anchored to direct instruction and information-giving models. A place where students, or pupils, show up to a building to learn because that location was the only place for it to occur....
by Michelle Carpenter | Nov 23, 2021 | Inspiration
It’s hard not to be aware of the selling and buying messages flying around at this time of year. They’re a good reminder to try and make sustainable and values-led buying choices whenever possible, as the decisions we make today can impact ourselves, each...
by Michelle Carpenter | Oct 20, 2021 | Inspiration
Although the majority of my working time is as chief strategy officer at Natural Pod, I thoroughly enjoy wearing other hats within education as well; I sit on the board of Green Schools National Network and I’m also the national co-chair and southeast chair of...
