A Vision for Open, Collaborative Learning

DSGW’s Interior Designer, Angela Swartzwelder, played a key role in redesigning Hayward Schools’ interior spaces. Recognizing the need for more openness and connectivity, her team expanded hallways and incorporated collaborative nooks. By widening corridors and introducing flexible seating areas, the design encourages interaction among students while maintaining clear sightlines for educators to monitor activity effectively.

“We created collaboration spaces and added soft furnishings to make students feel more engaged in the learning process,” Angela explains. “By trusting students with comfortable, modern environments, we enhance their educational experience.”

One of the standout features of the renovation is the introduction of durable, flexible furniture. Made with cleanable, high-quality fabrics and sourced from a Wisconsin-based manufacturer to reduce the project’s carbon footprint, the furnishings provide adaptable learning spaces. Tables that lift for stadium-style seating and modular setups allow students to create their own learning configurations, making classrooms more interactive and student-friendly.

Sustainability Meets Nostalgia

A key component of the project was integrating sustainability into the design while honoring the school’s history. Angela and her team repurposed materials from the existing structure, including wood from the school’s old bleachers, which was transformed into warm wood accents on the walls and ceilings.

“Using these reclaimed materials not only created a sense of nostalgia but also significantly reduced waste,” Angela notes. “It’s a wonderful way to connect the past with the future.”

Additionally, a historical photo wall was created using images from old yearbooks. The interactive display allows students, parents, and alumni to engage with the school’s rich history through a touchscreen interface, reinforcing a sense of legacy and pride.

This project also focused on reducing the school’s carbon footprint by sourcing materials locally whenever possible. From flooring to lighting fixtures, the design team selected products that minimize environmental impact while maximizing durability and aesthetic appeal.

School Safety and Security: A Top Priority

For any school renovation project, security is a paramount concern. Chris Kroeger, an architect at DSGW Architecture, emphasized the importance of balancing openness with safety.

“Student safety was a top priority, so we reconfigured the school’s entry points to ensure controlled access,” Chris explains. “We designed a secure vestibule where visitors check in before being granted access to the building.”

All exterior doors were fitted with electronic hardware that allows administrators to track access in real time, ensuring that any propped-open doors can be quickly addressed. This level of control significantly enhances security, giving staff and parents peace of mind.

Another challenge was retrofitting the Career and Technical Education (CTE) areas, which were previously separated from the main building by heavy, multi-hour fire-rated walls. To maintain fire safety while making these areas more visible and inviting, DSGW Architecture incorporated fire-rated shutters and partitions, allowing students and staff to observe hands-on learning activities safely.

Beyond the physical security measures, the design incorporated clear sightlines, reducing blind spots in hallways and common areas. Research indicates that schools with improved visibility in their design reduce incidents of bullying and disciplinary issues, making the learning environment safer and more conducive to student success.

Retrofitting for the Future: Updating Existing School Infrastructure

Renovating older school buildings requires a strategic approach to updating infrastructure while preserving key architectural elements. With nearly 60% of U.S. schools being over 50 years old, DSGW Architecture’s expertise in retrofitting was crucial in making Hayward Schools more functional and efficient for modern education.

One of the major changes was the transformation of the cafeteria space in the middle school. The outdated tiered design was leveled out to create a more versatile gathering area, and new exterior windows were added to bring in natural light. The terrazzo flooring was designed to reflect the school’s Hurricane mascot, integrating school pride into the very fabric of the building.

In addition to aesthetic and functional improvements, significant acoustic enhancements were made in the auditorium. Chris and his team worked closely with an acoustical consultant to create a design that allows performances and presentations to be clearly heard without the need for excessive amplification.

“We used a combination of hard and soft surfaces to optimize sound projection,” Chris explains. “Our goal was to ensure that a speaker could be heard clearly from the stage without needing a microphone.”

Creating Flexible, Future-Ready Learning Environments

Modern education calls for adaptable learning environments that support hands-on, project-based learning. Studies show that students engaged in collaborative, flexible classroom settings outperform their peers by up to 30% in critical thinking and problem-solving. DSGW Architecture incorporated these principles throughout the Hayward Schools project.

“We opened up classrooms to extend into hallways, incorporating soft seating and larger windows to encourage movement and collaboration,” says Chris. “This approach allows teachers to maintain visibility while giving students more flexibility in how they learn.”

Another major improvement was the expansion of CTE spaces, which now feature state-of-the-art equipment that prepares students for careers in the trades. By replacing outdated, basement-level shop classes with bright, open spaces that connect to the rest of the school, DSGW Architecture helped elevate vocational training, making it a core part of the educational experience.

Flexible learning spaces have been shown to improve student engagement by up to 25%, and Hayward Schools’ updates reflect this data. By creating multipurpose areas where students can collaborate, focus, or explore hands-on projects, DSGW Architecture has set a new standard for adaptive learning environments.

A Lasting Impact on Students and the Community

The renovation of Hayward Schools has had an immediate and positive impact on students, faculty, and the community. Teachers report that students are more engaged, collaborative, and comfortable in their learning environment. Superintendent Craig Olson notes that students take pride in their updated school, often commenting that it “feels like a rich school” compared to neighboring districts.

“Students feel trusted in these new spaces,” Olson says. “When they sit in the commons area on soft seating, they know this space was designed with them in mind.”

Beyond improving student morale and academic performance, the upgraded facilities benefit the entire Hayward community. The new Tamarack Health and Fitness Center provides resources for both students and residents, reinforcing the school’s role as a community hub.

Additionally, the improved infrastructure enhances the school’s ability to host community events, further solidifying its place as a vital gathering space in Hayward. The renovations align with a growing trend in educational architecture—creating schools that serve as centers of lifelong learning and community engagement.

Partnering with DSGW Architecture for Your School’s Future

For school administrators and community leaders seeking guidance on school bonding, safety improvements, and retrofitting older buildings, DSGW Architecture brings the expertise needed to create secure, inspiring, and future-ready learning environments.

From enhancing safety measures to incorporating flexible learning spaces and sustainable design elements, DSGW Architecture’s approach ensures that schools remain vibrant, welcoming, and adaptable to the evolving needs of education.

If your school district is considering renovations or new construction, contact DSGW Architecture today to explore how we can help transform your learning spaces for the next generation.

Voices of Hayward Schools: How Students and Faculty Experience the Transformation

A School Reimagined: First-Hand Perspectives from Students and Faculty

The renovation of Hayward Schools by DSGW Architecture has not only transformed the physical space but also profoundly impacted the students and faculty who walk its halls every day. Through strategic design, improved safety measures, and collaborative learning environments, the school now serves as a more engaging, functional, and inspiring place for education.

Students on Their New Learning Environment

A Space That Feels Like Home

Abby, a sophomore, describes the new learning spaces as a game-changer.

“My favorite part of the school is the collaborative spaces. It really helps me learn because I have a quiet place where I can sit and do my work,” she says. The addition of comfortable soft seating and open spaces has encouraged a sense of ownership and pride among students, allowing them to be more engaged in their education.

Rachel, a senior, appreciates the modern touches.

“The high school is open with all the new glass and natural light. It’s really cool because you can see everyone working in different classes. It makes the whole school feel more connected.”

Designed for Hands-On Learning

For students interested in technical and trade education, the updates to the Career and Technical Education (CTE) areas have been particularly impactful.

“My favorite part is the shop rooms and all the new equipment we got,” says senior Guy S. “There’s so much more to each room now. In the welding department, we have new booths, new welders, and a lot more activities we can do. It’s preparing us for real jobs.”

These upgraded spaces ensure that students have access to industry-standard tools and technology, making their transition from high school to career paths seamless.

Faculty on the New Learning Spaces

A More Engaging Atmosphere

Mike Churchill, a social studies teacher at Hayward High School, has noticed a shift in student engagement and collaboration since the renovations were completed.

“I think the biggest difference is how the new layout creates a better flow,” he explains. “Students can move more easily between classes, and the new spaces feel less cramped. The softer seating, wider hallways, and commons area have created a much more welcoming and productive learning environment.”

Another crucial aspect of the redesign was incorporating breakout spaces where students can collaborate without disrupting traditional classroom settings.

“When I hear students talking about the school, it’s all positive,” Churchill adds. “Especially for former students who come back— they’re amazed at how much the building has changed for the better.”

Safety and Accessibility at the Forefront

For faculty and staff, one of the most critical improvements was the focus on student safety. Controlled entry points and electronic door monitoring have created a more secure environment for everyone on campus.

Craig Olson, superintendent of Hayward Community School District, emphasized the importance of these changes.

“Student safety was a top concern in this project. The secure vestibule ensures that visitors check in before entering the school. The electronic door systems give us real-time access control, helping us maintain a safe learning environment.”

These security measures not only provide peace of mind for students and faculty but also for parents who trust that their children are learning in a safe and controlled space.

A New Sense of Community and Pride

Beyond the classroom, the renovations have fostered a renewed sense of pride among students, teachers, and community members. The new Tamarack Health and Fitness Center, updated commons, and collaborative spaces have given everyone a greater appreciation for their school.

Rachel Noah notes, “It’s not just about the academics. The gym, weight room, and study spaces make it a place we actually want to be. It feels like a school that values us.”

Superintendent Olson agrees. “This building project has given our students a learning environment they can be proud of. It’s a direct investment in their success, both in school and beyond.”

A Legacy for Future Generations

For many at Hayward Schools, the transformation isn’t just about today’s students—it’s about setting up future generations for success.

“Looking around, you can see that this was designed with students in mind,” says senior Trenton Kirkland. “The natural light, the modern design, the new facilities—it makes a huge difference in how we experience school every day.” With every updated space, from the expanded CTE areas to the reimagined auditorium, Hayward Schools now stands as a model for how design can positively shape the educational experience. The voices of students and faculty make it clear: thoughtful design fosters engagement, safety, and pride—ensuring a lasting legacy for years to come.