About Us

We explore design topics – from architecture to fashion design – to engage design thinking skills such as prototyping, problem-solving, and collaborative discussion.

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


[Coming soon] Our downtown 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 lab?

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 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!

How we got started

Suzanne LaGasa, an industry-leading graphic designer and Brooklyn parent, was moved to start ProtoToto 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 wants her daughter and all Brooklyn kids to know the value of their creativity.

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.

Who We Are

  • Suzanne LaGasa

    Founder of ProtoToto, Designer, & Creative Director of Dwell Magazine

  • Gabriela Maretti

    Branding Entrepreneur & Fashion Marketer,
    Founder of Moda de Poder

  • Stephanie Ogé

    Fashion Designer & Creative Entrepreneur,
    Founder of Sogé Studios

  • Luise Stauss

    Art Director,
    Founder of Luise Stauss

  • Rebecca Blum

    Designer & Product Design Professor at NYU

Our Key Contributors

  • Laura Dirzyte

    Senior Graphic Designer at Condé Nast.

    Laura designed our logo and visual language. Check out her portfolio here.

  • 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.

Start the adventure today.