"The environment should act as an aquarium which reflects the ideas, ethics, attitudes, and culture of the people who live in it"

Loris Malaguzzi’s observation suggests that the physical and social environment in which individuals, particularly children, live and learn is more than a backdrop to their activities; it is a dynamic, transparent container that simultaneously shapes and is shaped by those within it. Like an aquarium, an environment reveals its inhabitants and provides them with support, nourishment, and context. The comparison to an aquarium emphasizes that environments are transparent and observable: just as an aquarium allows us to witness the behavior and relationships of its occupants, a thoughtfully designed environment invites engagement and makes the values and priorities of its community visible to all.

An environment that reflects its people is characterized by intentional choices that honor the distinct ideas, ethics, attitudes, and cultural backgrounds of the community. When learners, whether children or adults, enter such a space, they find cues about what is valued. For example, if collaboration is important, spaces might foster group work and shared projects. If respect for diversity is held in high regard, the environment could present a variety of languages, artifacts, and cultural references. The layout, materials, displays, and even the light can act as mirrors, affirming identity and inspiring new interactions.

Malaguzzi’s conception arises from the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy, which emphasizes the environment as a ‘third teacher’, alongside adults and peers. This perspective acknowledges that learning is a social, interactive process, profoundly influenced by surroundings. A reflective environment encourages agency, curiosity, and active participation. It invites children (and adults) to construct meaning together and to see themselves as capable contributors to the ongoing life and evolution of their community.

Ultimately, seeing the environment as an aquarium calls for ongoing collaboration and reflection. Employing the environment intentionally ensures it continues to mirror collective and evolving community values, thereby supporting meaningful, contextually-rooted growth and learning.