Minnesota Teacher Wins Classroom Makeover That Transforms Learning at Minnetonka Middle School East
Minnetonka, MN – August 29, 2025 – In the spring of 2025, Atmosphere Commercial Interiors (Atmosphere) announced the Showroom to Homeroom contest, a program that annually awards one school in the Minneapolis metro-area with a classroom transformation, complete with new furniture and design solutions courtesy of Atmosphere and The HON Company. Through this initiative Atmosphere has set out to provide spaces where students have choice and control over their learning environment, thus creating ownership of the learning process.
After reviewing the thoughtful submissions, Minnetonka Middle School East stood out for its strong commitment to student-centered learning. The recipient, teacher Chelsie Anderson, had a vision that emphasized creating a welcoming, adaptable space designed to empower students—an approach that reflects the school’s broader philosophy of preparing learners for success through innovation.
As a seventh-grade pre-algebra teacher, Chelsie wanted to transform the 600 square-foot classroom with flexible furniture that could give the students the freedom to choose how they learn best at any given moment. New furniture solutions would not only maximize the physical space, but also enhance classroom flow and reduce distractions.
“A thoughtfully designed classroom isn’t just a room; it’s a tool that empowers students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally” – Chelsie Anderson
Rather than simply updating furniture, this project reimagines the entire classroom experience. The new layout and furnishings create zones for independent work, small group learning, and collaborative discussions, making the space adaptable for a variety of learning styles and needs.
The classroom transformation features Build student desks paired with SmartLink student seating, creating a flexible and coordinated learning environment. A refreshed teacher space includes a SmartLink desk and Cipher chair, while Revel stools and Tangram soft seating add versatility for collaboration and group work. Flock ottomans provides an additional, comfortable option for casual seating, rounding out a space designed to support both teaching and learning.
The Showroom to Homeroom contest is an annual opportunity sponsored by Atmosphere Commercial Interiors to provide local students and teachers with a space that fosters collaboration, teamwork and peer-to-peer communication. The learning needs of students and teaching needs of educators alike vary throughout the day, and we are passionate about providing spaces where students have choice and control over their learning environment.
We are proud to engage The HON Company as a key partner and sponsor of our contest. HON offers a holistic portfolio of solutions for every student, every teaching style, and every type of learning space – from the classroom to the front office and all areas in-between. With a well-rounded portfolio of durable products designed to inspire and engage, HON seamlessly delivers spaces that help students, faculty, and administrators achieve their full potential.
Press contact – Kelley Johnson, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, Kelley.Johnson@atmosphereci.com