This project was a full-circle moment for Houry. At seven years old, she arrived in Canada as a newcomer and began attending Alex Manoogian School, where she completed both her primary and junior high school education.
In 2012, Houry was invited to transform a spare classroom into a flexible, multi-purpose library and learning space. She embraced the challenge and the opportunity to enrich the experiences of future generations of students through thoughtful, innovative design.
The result was a highly adaptable room equipped with retractable projectors for films and presentations. Expandable workstations positioned around the room can be folded away when not in use, while a dedicated cabinet houses the tables and audiovisual equipment. The stackable chairs have their own built-in storage closet, allowing the room to be completely opened for school functions and cocktail receptions.
A playful red shelving unit displays a colourful collection of children’s books. Lockable iPad storage units allow students to borrow devices and learn through a digital platform – an emerging educational resource in schools at the time. On the opposite wall, a glass display case and counter with bar stools create a welcoming place where students can discover the latest news and celebrate weekly achievements.
For Houry, it was an honour to give back to the school that had welcomed her as a child and provided the strong foundation from which she continued her education and built her future.
