Summer Programs give curious kids the opportunity to dive into specific interests in architecture and test out their own ideas. Each program explores a different theme through art and building activities, design challenges, guided investigations of architectural examples, and field trips. Our educators strive to accommodate all learning styles. Classes are taught in a group setting and students engage independently to design and build projects. Classes include 12 to 16 students, 1 teacher, and 1 assistant.
Summer Programs are week-long classes (Mon-Fri) for students entering grades 3–5, 6–8, or 9–12. All Summer Programs are held at the Center for Architecture, unless otherwise noted.
Upcoming Summer Programs will run July 6–August 21, 2026. Registration will open in our Calendar on the following schedule:
- Grades 3–5: Monday, March 16, 11am
- Grades 6–8: Tuesday, March 17, 11am
- Grades 9–12: Wednesday, March 18, 11am
For more information, see our FAQs. Please email [email protected] with any additional questions.
2026 Program Overview
Please see the schedule above for registration opening dates. All grade levels are based on the grade the student will enter in Fall 2026.
Hours and Fees
One-Week Programs (Grades 3–12): 9:00 am–4:00 pm | $770
Two-week Architectural Design Studio (Grades 10–12): 9:00 am–4:00pm | $1,770
Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based partial scholarships are available. Upon completing program registration as a “scholarship applicant”, you will automatically receive a confirmation email which includes a link to the Scholarship Application. Your registration is complete once you submit the Scholarship Application. If you are selected to receive a scholarship, you will be notified by email within two weeks of the due date. At that time, balance payment will be due.
The scholarship application deadline is May 1. Maximum 1 application per student.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Registration for all programs is non-transferable. Within four weeks of the program's start date, program fees are non-refundable. If cancellation is made at least four weeks prior to the program’s start date, and we are able to fill the space from our waitlist, we will refund all fees minus a $100 administrative fee for each cancelled week. If we are unable to fill your space, we will not be able to provide any refund. There are no exceptions to this policy. The Center for Architecture does not provide make-ups or refunds for days missed as a result of vacation plans, scheduling conflicts, illness, emergencies, or other events beyond our control.
Educator and Staff Bios
Learn more about our Summer Programs educators and staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
See our FAQs for 2026 Summer Programs.
Grades 9–12 Programs
Registration for Grades 9-12 Summer Programs will open Wednesday, March 18th at 11am on our calendar. All grade levels are based on the grade the student will enter in Fall 2026.
Architectural Design Studio (Grades 10–12), Offsite July 6–17, 2026 (2-week program)
In this program, high school students interested in exploring architecture or enhancing their design skills receive a comprehensive introduction to a first-year college-level architectural studio. The class responds to a project brief, studies building precedents, explores spatial concepts, and conducts a site analysis. These skills and research are used to inform the development of an independent project from concept to final design. Students are provided with tools, sketchbooks, and hands-on instruction to support the development of portfolio-worthy projects.
The studio experience is supplemented by visits to an architecture firm's office. A panel of invited professionals from the field responds to students' concept sketches, hand-drafted scale drawings, and 3D scale models at a culminating presentation.
This class will be hosted by Lutron at 979 Third Avenue, New York, NY. It will not take place at the Center for Architecture.
Architectural Sketching (Grades 9–12) July 13–17, 2026
With a focus on free-hand sketching, this course develops drawing skills with architecture as the inspiration. Students are introduced to a range of drawing techniques, including one- and two-point perspectives and methods for shading and rendering different building materials. Students sketch using graphite, charcoal, watercolor pencils, and dry pastels. The course is largely spent outdoors at notable sites around New York City to practice observational on-site sketching, which can help students create work for their portfolios.
Please note: Participants should expect extended periods of walking, standing, and traveling by subway between drawing sites.
Architectural Design Studio (Grades 10–12), Offsite July 20–31, 2026 (2-week program)
In this program, high school students interested in exploring architecture or enhancing their design skills receive a comprehensive introduction to a first-year college-level architectural studio. The class responds to a project brief, studies building precedents, explores spatial concepts, and conducts a site analysis. These skills and research are used to inform the development of an independent project from concept to final design. Students are provided with tools, sketchbooks, and hands-on instruction to support the development of portfolio-worthy projects.
The studio experience is supplemented by visits to an architecture firm's office. A panel of invited professionals from the field responds to students' concept sketches, hand-drafted scale drawings, and 3D scale models at a culminating presentation.
This class will be hosted by Lutron at 979 Third Avenue, New York, NY. It will not take place at the Center for Architecture.
Architectural Sketching (Grades 9–12) August 3–7, 2026
With a focus on free-hand sketching, this course develops drawing skills with architecture as the inspiration. Students are introduced to a range of drawing techniques, including one- and two-point perspectives and methods for shading and rendering different building materials. Students sketch using graphite, charcoal, watercolor pencils, and dry pastels. The course is largely spent outdoors at notable sites around New York City to practice observational on-site sketching, which can help students create work for their portfolios.
Please note: Participants should expect extended periods of walking, standing, and traveling by subway between drawing sites.
Architectural Design Studio (Grades 10–12), Offsite August 3–14, 2026 (2-week program)
In this program, high school students interested in exploring architecture or enhancing their design skills receive a comprehensive introduction to a first-year college-level architectural studio. The class responds to a project brief, studies building precedents, explores spatial concepts, and conducts a site analysis. These skills and research are used to inform the development of an independent project from concept to final design. Students are provided with tools, sketchbooks, and hands-on instruction to support the development of portfolio-worthy projects.
The studio experience is supplemented by visits to an architecture firm's office. A panel of invited professionals from the field responds to students' concept sketches, hand-drafted scale drawings, and 3D scale models at a culminating presentation.
This class will be hosted by Lutron at 979 Third Avenue, New York, NY. It will not take place at the Center for Architecture.
Digital Design: Neighborhoods (Grades 9-12) August 17 – 21, 2026
Urban planners consider street layouts, building types, open spaces, infrastructure, and other amenities when designing vibrant communities. Students in this class explore New York City neighborhoods and look at examples around the world to learn about urban design. Using 3D design software, each student designs and builds a piece of a neighborhood and saves 2D images for their portfolio. By the end of the week, the class assembles the individual pieces into a shared vision of an ideal neighborhood.
Students will need to bring their own laptop and charging cord with Windows 11 or Mac OS 26 (Tahoe), 15 (Sequoia), 14+ (Sonoma), or 13+ (Ventura) for this class. Students can bring their own mouse or CFA will provide a wired mouse for student use. Students will be sent a link to download the free SketchUp trial software prior to the first day of class. Students with Chromebooks can use the free web-based SketchUp software. Tablets and phones cannot be used for this program. Please check your system requirements here.
Grades 6–8 Programs
Registration for Grades 6-8 Summer Programs will open Tuesday, March 17th at 11am on our calendar. All grade levels are based on the grade the student will enter in Fall 2026.
Public Art and Architecture (Grades 6–8) July 6–10, 2026
This program explores how public art such as sculptures, murals, and other installations make public spaces more interactive, lively, and fun. Students visit amazing examples right here in New York City and learn about others around the globe, exploring their own artistic ideas through 2D and 3D design activities. For their final project, students design and create a model of a public art installation of their own.
Digital Design: Transit Architecture (Grades 6–8) July 6–10, 2026
New York City would be very different without the complex subway system running above and below its busy streets. Students learn about the history and design of the New York City subway and compare it with notable systems around the world. We explore how the subway’s extensive network operates, as well as the social, environmental, and engineering challenges it faces today. Inspired by the new Interborough Express which will connect 17 subway lines between Brooklyn and Queens, students use 3D design software to create a transit hub to support the city’s growth and connectivity.
Students will need to bring their own laptop and charging cord with Windows 11 or Mac OS 26 (Tahoe), 15 (Sequoia), 14+ (Sonoma), or 13+ (Ventura) for this class. Students can bring their own mouse or CFA will provide a wired mouse for student use. Students will be sent a link to download the free SketchUp trial software prior to the first day of class. Students with Chromebooks can use the free web-based SketchUp software. Tablets and phones cannot be used for this program. Please check your system requirements here.
Treehouses (Grades 6–8) July 13–17, 2026
After first learning about the structure of trees, students craft scale models inspired by their own idea of the perfect tree. Using these creations as a starting point, students are challenged to design and build a fantasy treehouse within its branches. The class explores various techniques to support the treehouse and create ladders, swings, furniture, and other fun details to scale.
Waterfront City (Grades 6–8) July 20–24, 2026
This class explores past, present, and future designs for cities built on or around water, including New York City. Working collaboratively, students create a design for a waterfront city, incorporating ideas about architecture, transportation, and recreation. Each student’s contribution will come together at the end of the week to create a collective vision of a sustainable waterfront city.
Digital Design: Skyscrapers (Grades 6–8) July 20–24, 2026
Structural advances in technology have resulted in skyscrapers that are taller than ever before. Through discussions, trips to New York City skyscrapers, and design challenges, students explore the structures and systems that make such supertall buildings possible. Learning about amazing skyscrapers around the world offers inspiration for students to design their own skyscraper using 3D design software.
Students will need to bring their own laptop and charging cord with Windows 11 or Mac OS 26 (Tahoe), 15 (Sequoia), 14+ (Sonoma), or 13+ (Ventura) for this class. Students can bring their own mouse or CFA will provide a wired mouse for student use. Students will be sent a link to download the free SketchUp trial software prior to the first day of class. Students with Chromebooks can use the free web-based SketchUp software. Tablets and phones cannot be used for this program. Please check your system requirements here.
Bridges (Grades 6–8) July 27–31, 2026
Beam, truss, arch, suspension, and moving bridges all support weight and span great distances. Through interactive discussions, experiments, and small building projects, students learn about the engineering behind these structural marvels. Students visit several bridges in New York City, then put their new knowledge to the test as they create a final bridge of their own design.
Digital Design: Neighborhoods (Grades 6–8) July 27–31, 2026
Urban planners consider street layouts, building types, open spaces, infrastructure, and other amenities when designing vibrant communities. Students in this class explore New York City neighborhoods and look at examples around the world to learn about urban design. Using 3D design software, each student designs and builds a piece of a neighborhood. By the end of the week, the class assembles the individual pieces into a shared vision of an ideal neighborhood.
Students will need to bring their own laptop and charging cord with Windows 11 or Mac OS 26 (Tahoe), 15 (Sequoia), 14+ (Sonoma), or 13+ (Ventura) for this class. Students can bring their own mouse or CFA will provide a wired mouse for student use. Students will be sent a link to download the free SketchUp trial software prior to the first day of class. Students with Chromebooks can use the free web-based SketchUp software. Tablets and phones cannot be used for this program. Please check your system requirements here.
Skyscrapers (Grades 6–8) August 3–7, 2026
Structural advances in technology have resulted in skyscrapers that are taller than ever before. Through discussions, trips to New York City skyscrapers, and design challenges, students explore the structures and systems that make such supertall buildings possible. Learning about amazing skyscrapers around the world offers inspiration for students to design their own skyscrapers using drawings and models.
Digital Design: Aquatecture (Grades 6–8) August 10–14, 2026
Throughout time, buildings have been built near the water for both resources and transit. This program investigates how rising sea levels will affect the design of buildings at, on, or near the water in the future. Students are introduced to sustainable design strategies that can make these buildings energy efficient enough to support off-the-grid living. Students then use 3D design software to design their own imaginative aquatecture.
Students will need to bring their own laptop and charging cord with Windows 11 or Mac OS 26 (Tahoe), 15 (Sequoia), 14+ (Sonoma), or 13+ (Ventura) for this class. Students can bring their own mouse or CFA will provide a wired mouse for student use. Students will be sent a link to download the free SketchUp trial software prior to the first day of class. Students with Chromebooks can use the free web-based SketchUp software. Tablets and phones cannot be used for this program. Please check your system requirements here.
House of the Future (Grades 6–8) August 17–21, 2026
Students investigate the history of housing and consider what’s in store for the future. This program asks students to explore historic homes to see how people lived in the past, discover advancements in green architecture today, and speculate about how we might live in the future. For their final project, students work collaboratively in small groups to design and build a scale model for a house of the future.
Grades 3-5 Programs
Registration for Grades 3-5 Summer Programs will open Monday, March 16th at 11am on our calendar. All grade levels are based on the grade the student will enter in Fall 2026.
Treehouses (Grades 3–5) July 6–10, 2026
After first learning about the structure of trees, students craft scale models inspired by their own idea of the perfect tree. Using these creations as a starting point, students are challenged to design and build a fantasy treehouse within its branches. The class explores various techniques to support the treehouse and create ladders, swings, furniture, and other fun details.
Neighborhoods (Grades 3–5) July 13–17, 2026
Urban planners consider street layouts, building types, open spaces, infrastructure, and other amenities when designing vibrant communities. Students in this class explore New York City neighborhoods and look at examples around the world to learn about urban design. Each student designs and builds one part of a neighborhood, and by the end of the week the class assembles the individual pieces into a shared vision of an ideal neighborhood.
Building Bridges (Grades 3–5) July 20–24, 2026
Beam, truss, arch, suspension, and moving bridges support weight and span great distances. Through interactive discussions, experiments, and small building projects, students will learn about these structural marvels. Students visit several bridges in New York City, then put their new knowledge to the test as they create a final bridge of their own design.
Animal Architecture (Grades 3–5) July 27–31, 2026
Animal homes come in many different shapes and sizes, all just right for the creatures living in them. This class explores how animals build their homes by observing structures such as nests, ant colonies, shells, and dams. Students visit the zoo to look at buildings and environments created for animals by people. The program concludes with a challenge for students to create a structure that their favorite animal or creature might enjoy.
Museum Architecture (Grades 3–5) August 3–7, 2026
Museums now cover more subjects than ever before, from history and art to animals and ice cream. This program visits some of the best museums New York City has to offer and also explores examples of museums around the world. Students consider how design helps visitors learn and engage their imagination to create a museum that showcases a collection of objects they love.
Architectural Wonders (Grades 3–5) August 10–14, 2026
Explore the great architectural wonders of the world! This class investigates ancient and new wonders of the world including the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Colosseum, Burj Khalifa, and many more. Students create their own designs inspired by these amazing buildings and structures and learn new design techniques and strategies along the way. Got some wonderful design ideas of your own? We’ll end with students creating their own architectural wonders for the 21st Century.
House of the Future (Grades 3–5) August 10–14, 2026
Students investigate the history of housing and consider what’s in store for the future. This program asks students to explore historic homes to see how people lived in the past, discover advancements in green architecture today, and speculate about how we might live in the future. For their final project, students design and build their own model for a house of the future.
Parks and Playgrounds (Grades 3–5) August 17–21, 2026
Kids are the designers and the experts in this program exploring parks and playgrounds as spaces for movement, imagination, and community. Through playful site visits, observations through our bodies and senses, drawing, and mapping, students study how design shapes the way we play and gather. Play is treated as a form of creative research and thinking. The week culminates in each student designing and building a model of their own ideal play space.