Ruffing Design House

Ruffing Design House (RDH) is a dynamic, hands-on learning environment designed to inspire creativity, curiosity, and collaboration among students aged eighteen months through eighth grade. Rooted in Montessori principles, RDH offers a rich variety of specialized creative spaces, including woodworking, fiber arts, audiovisual, and design thinking studios. Each thoughtfully prepared environment invites students to engage in meaningful, project-based learning that complements their classroom studies and nurtures their individual talents.

For our youngest learners in the Toddler and Children’s House programs, RDH provides sensory exploration, creative construction, and early exposure to physics and design concepts. Carefully guided by their teachers and assisted by Design House experts, students engage with open-ended materials in the Studio, fostering fine motor development, curiosity, and self-regulation. These experiences build a strong foundation for problem-solving and joyful learning.

As students advance into Lower Elementary, they are introduced to the Shop, Fabrication (Fiber Arts) Lab, and Innovation Lab, where they develop essential skills in tool use, safety, and design thinking. Projects are carefully scaffolded to encourage creativity, practical math application, and exploration of scientific concepts. RDH allows for both structured lessons and independent exploration, promoting confidence and critical thinking.

Upper Elementary students take part in a unique elective program within RDH, offering choices like woodworking, 3D modeling, sewing, and audiovisual production. These electives, led by RDH staff and experts-in-residence, enable students to dive deeply into areas of personal interest, collaborate across age groups, and participate in community projects such as the Maker Fair or theater productions. Middle School students expand on these opportunities with service projects, micro-economy experiences, and interdisciplinary learning that weave together the arts, sciences, and humanities — all supported by the flexible, state-of-the-art spaces within RDH.

Beyond the school day, RDH hosts after-school clubs, community events, and special programs that invite students, families, and the broader community to experience the power of creativity and collaboration. Whether through summer programs, workshops, or performances, Ruffing Design House stands as a vibrant hub of innovation and lifelong learning for the entire Ruffing community.