Open Air School

The Open Air School is a school building with Renaissance Revival architecture featuring broad windows and high ceilings. The structure uses classical design to encourage natural light and air circulation throughout the space.

The building was constructed in 1927 by architect Howard Dwight Smith during a time when schools were rethinking how to educate children. The design was part of a broader movement that saw fresh air and sunlight as essential to learning.

The school shows early 20th-century ideas about how buildings could support students. The large windows and high ceilings were part of a plan to bring fresh air and light into the classroom.

The building is located in Columbus and is registered on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it is protected. Visitors should know that this is an active school building, so it may not be freely accessible at all times.

The building was part of a national experiment with open-air schools that had classrooms with open sides and direct access to outdoor space. These schools were based on the idea that outdoor air and sunlight could help children learn more healthily and with better focus.

Location: Columbus

Inception: 1927

Architects: Howard Dwight Smith

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

Address: 2571 Neil Avenue

GPS coordinates: 40.01451,-83.01409

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:01