This is the first article in a six-part series on the elements of a collaborative classroom: furniture, social media, video/web conferencing tools, collaborative software, interactive devices, and mobile devices. With most universities facing tight budgets, convincing administrators to invest in expensive new classrooms is a challenge. Many higher education officials involved in space planning are increasingly focused on how classroom setups can enhance collaboration. University staff members and faculty are particularly interested in modular furniture that can be reconfigured quickly for different group sizes and activities. The author points out that cutting-edge learning spaces are designed with flexibility and collaboration in mind, right down to the modular tables and chairs.