STEAM Day at Smith Middle School, Chapel Hill.

What if the next generation of urban designers, architects, and changemakers is already sitting in today's classrooms?

After five workshops and engagement with 105 brilliant students at STEAM Day at Smith Middle School, Chapel Hill, we know the answer: they are.

Through Prism Design Lab's Exploring Architecture program, students explored how cities can become sustainable, healthier, more resilient, and more equitable. Through hands-on activities and collaborative design with LEGOs, they developed urban design concepts rooted in green technology, resilient infrastructure, and community-centered planning.

The students approached each challenge with creativity and curiosity, proving that age is no barrier to innovation.

Our experience at Smith Middle School reinforced a conviction we hold deeply: the future of sustainable design is already taking shape.