How can a story, a rhythm or a movement take shape in a space? Grade 8 students from LgrM8 and MYP3 explored this question during an architecture workshop with architects Leila Heydari and Alexandra Elisson, and graphic designer Ensi T. Börjesson, from Arkitektur Tillsammans, also known as ArKoYo.
During the workshop, students worked in small groups to design and build three-dimensional stage models for theatre, music or dance performances. The session began with an introduction that encouraged students to think about how characters, stories, shapes, music, rhythm, movement, culture, nature and emotions can be expressed through space and design.
Students first sketched their ideas individually before working in groups of three to develop a shared concept. Using cardboard, tissue paper, watercolours and coloured paper, they experimented with shapes, levels, lines, colours, patterns and textures to bring their stage designs to life.
Each type of performance presented different creative challenges. For theatre, students considered characters, setting, atmosphere and lighting. For music, they explored rhythm, tempo, repetition, sound and silence. For dance, they investigated movement, direction, levels and energy, considering how performers might move through a space.
Throughout the process, students were encouraged to test, adapt and develop their ideas. They discussed how the design of a stage could influence the audience’s experience and how different materials and visual elements could communicate a particular feeling or tell a story.
At the end of the workshop, each group presented its model to the class, explaining the performance they had imagined, the atmosphere they wanted to create and the ideas behind their design.
The workshop provided a calm, colourful and collaborative learning experience. Students from the Swedish and international programmes worked together, shared their experiences of theatre, dance and music, and learned from one another.
By combining practical making with creative thinking and reflection, students explored how architecture and stage design can bring ideas, stories and emotions to life.