About Us
ProtoToto is a Brooklyn design studio for kids ages 6 - 12. Children explore design topics – from architecture to fashion design – and design thinking skills such as prototyping, design critiques, and problem-solving.
Project Based Learning
We offer project-based programs in architecture, fashion design, graphic design, industrial design, and game design. Your child could design a dream playground or the Olympic uniforms to represent a nation. They could rethink subway car design, or create a powerful movie poster with their own typeface.
Inspiring Studio Space
Our Brooklyn studio space features: lots of fabrication tools and art supplies, clear presentation walls, great lighting, a book and materials library for inspiration, and last but not least, a very positive, playful and inclusive spirit.
Expert Teachers
We work with a diverse community of practicing design professionals, design students and passionate instructors. We offer small programs with a max of 24 students, and 2-3 adult instructors present at all times.
Why a design studio ?
The design process provides a unique scaffold for the imagination, giving kids the structure they need to nurture their inherent creativity. The studio space is how we build community and belonging, support families, and best share the joy of the design process through play.
Our Brooklyn community
The more perspectives and experiences we bring to our design community, the richer the work. Our studio doors are always open to caretakers and parents. You are welcome to join your child for a session anytime!
“My daughter loved making a physical model of her idea and presenting it to the group. She came home happy and filled with confidence!”
— Rebeka, mom to A. age 6, after a ProtoToto spring workshop
How we got started
Suzanne LaGasa, an industry-leading graphic designer and Brooklyn parent, was moved to start ProtoToto in 2024 when she noticed the absence of programs introducing design to young kids.
As the only person in her family to pursue a career in the arts, Suzanne wanted her daughter and all Brooklyn kids to know the value of their creativity. She started out providing pop up workshops, followed by summer camps. We’re currently fundraising to secure our permanent studio space.
Suzanne is the creative director of Dwell Magazine, and has designed books, visuals systems, and brand strategies. She studied design at the California College of the Arts in San Francisco. Its core foundations based on the Bauhaus approach to design remain a big influence on her today. Suzanne is also a Brooklyn parent at P.S. 38 in Boerum Hill.
Our Board of Advisors
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Rebecca Blum
Designer and professor at NYU
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Gabriela Maretti
Branding entrepreneur and fashion marketer
Founder of Moda de Poder -
Stephanie Ogé
Founder of Sogé Studios
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Luise Stauss
Art Director,
Founder of Luise Stauss
Our Key Contributors
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Laura Dirzyte
Senior Graphic Designer at Condé Nast.
Laura designed our logo and visual language. Check out her portfolio here.
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Elizabeth Alexander
Marketing Consultant
Founder of Launch Cleverly
Elizabeth helps us develop our newsletters, promotions, and marketing. -
Vered Raz
Art Teacher at The Boerum Hill School for International Studies.
Vered helps us develop our classes and workshops.
