Two KSS Projects Recognized by Learning By Design

Two KSS-designed learning environments have earned national recognition in Learning by Design Magazine’s Fall 2026 Architecture and Interior Design Awards of Excellence. AMY at James Martin in Philadelphia received an Honor Award – Climate Action, while Comp Sci High in the Bronx was named an Outstanding Project.

Different communities and different design challenges connect through a shared goal: creating learning environments that support students today while preparing them for what comes next.

At AMY at James Martin, learning extends throughout the school through vertical learning neighborhoods organized around shared commons, breakout spaces, and instructor hubs. Daylight in every classroom, an accessible green roof, living classroom, makerspaces, discovery commons, and a park-like play yard support wellness while creating opportunities for learning beyond the classroom.

The Learning by Design jury recognized the project’s student-centered planning and commitment to sustainability, describing it as a “vibrant, student-centered campus” and noting that its range of indoor and outdoor learning environments “extend learning beyond the classroom.”

The project received an Honor Award – Climate Action, one of the top honors in the Fall 2026 awards program.

“The new AMY at James Martin school is more than just a building; it is a testament of our commitment to creating equitable, high-quality learning environments in Philadelphia for students. AMY at James Martin provides natural light through large windows, collaborative spaces, and classroom furniture to fit a range of student needs. I cannot wait to see the great things our students accomplish here.” – Tony Watlington, Sr. Ed.D., Superintendent, School District of Philadelphia.

Project Team:
• Mosaic Development Partners & Daniel J. Keating Company / Philadelphia Area Construction, Developer Turn-key, Design-Build Team 
• O’Donnell & Naccarato, Structural Engineer 
• David Mason & Associates / Engineering & Construction Services, Civil Engineer 
• Studio Sustena, Landscape Architect 
• Arora Engineers, MEP/FP Engineer, AV, IT, Security Designer

Comp Sci High responds to the opportunities and constraints of its South Bronx setting with a learning environment designed to support students’ academic, professional, technical, and civic development. Its stepped form, brick façade, and thoughtful use of color establish a distinct school identity while remaining connected to the surrounding neighborhood.

Jurors praised the project for transforming a constrained site into “a flexible, light-filled environment supporting academic, professional, and civic growth.” They also highlighted the architecture’s strong connection to the South Bronx and the project’s commitment to sustainability, student success, and engagement.

Comp Sci High received an Outstanding Project Award as an example of innovative educational design and next-generation learning.

“It's custom-made for us. Not only do we have more space, but we finally have the ability to be in control of our space. We have always envisioned ourselves as a community school and this will allow us to reach even more of the community. This is a real game-changer for us.” - Angel Morales, Chair of the Board, Comp Sci High. 

Project Team

• Civic Builders, Developer
• Kelmar Designs, Contractor 
• LERA Consulting Structural Engineers, Structural Engineer 
• MG Engineering, MEP/FP Engineer

The Fall 2026 awards were evaluated by a jury of education, architecture, and facility design professionals across six criteria: Design Challenges and Innovation; Sustainability and Social Impact; Interior Architecture/Design; Next Generation Learning; Functional Design/Effective Space Planning; and Community Needs.

Both projects are featured in the October 2026 print and digital editions of Learning by Design Magazine, the official publication of the Association for Learning Environments.