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.
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. Our educators strive to accommodate all learning styles.
These week-long classes are offered 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.
Grades 9–12 Programs
All Grades 9–12 Summer Programs are now sold out. Join the waitlist for sold out programs here. 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.
Schedule
Upcoming Summer Programs will run July 6–August 21, 2026.
The application deadline for need-based scholarships is May 1. (Upon completing program registration as a “scholarship applicant”, you will automatically receive a confirmation email which includes a link to the Scholarship Application.)
For more information, see our FAQs. Please email [email protected] with any additional questions.