The phrase encapsulates educational institutions characterized by open, unobstructed environments during the first decade of the 21st century. It evokes images of university or school settings where physical and perhaps metaphorical transparency prevailed in the early 2000s. For instance, one might envision a university with modern, glass-walled buildings set against an expansive, open landscape, symbolizing a departure from more traditional, enclosed academic spaces.
This period witnessed a significant emphasis on accessibility and openness in campus design and institutional culture. The intended advantages included fostering collaboration, promoting student well-being through access to natural light and outdoor spaces, and projecting an image of progress and forward-thinking. Historically, this era followed shifts in architectural design towards more contemporary and less hierarchical structures, reflecting broader societal values of transparency and connectivity.
