Teach For America
Teach For America (TFA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that finds, develops, and supports a diverse network of leaders who are committed to reimagining public education. To do this, they first make an initial two-year commitment to teach in high-need schools. Then, they go on to become lifelong leaders in the effort to end educational inequity. TFA selected Self+Tucker Architects as the design team charged with relocating its former Toyota Plaza office to a unique new space at Crosstown Concourse. The project required the reduction of 5,486 RSF of office space, as well as the visible infusion of Teach For America’s core values into fresh, modern design elements. Recycled materials were used in the furniture, steel countertops, and finishes. Recycling stations were also added. Other features such as the plywood panels and concrete floors were preserved in their raw form. Energy efficient fixtures and the use of non-VOC paints helped to maximize daylight and allow more natural light to fill the space. A new concept called “hoteling” was incorporated into the design to allow for more flexibility with respect to how and when space is accessed by the many staff, corps members, and program alumni who use the office as their home base.
"Our portfolio spreads right across the country so I get to work with numerous architectural firms both big and small so there is often a measure of “keeping your fingers” crossed and hoping for the best. Thankfully in Memphis that wasn’t a problem as Self & Tucker were the right choice! "
– Michael Zehavi, SMD, Workplace Strategy & Operations