Peer Instruction - How do we design classrooms for this?

I attended a recent presentation by Alan November, internationally known education and technology consultant, who spoke on web literacy and integrating technology into education (fascinating stuff - more about that in a later post).  He presented a video about Eric Mazur, Balkanski Professor of Physics and Applied Science at Harvard University. 

Professor Mazur spoke about his realization that students in his physics lectures were doing well on exams but not actually retaining the knowledge.  This led to serious questioning about the standard practice of teaching (cover content in class, practice problems at home) and development of a teaching style he calls Peer Instruction.  In short (really short - I'm just started learning about it)

1) Read content at home prior to class

2) Comment and ask questions on a classroom blog/social network

3) Solve problem in class (use voting clickers)

4) Convince your peers your answer is correct

5) Continue solving problems (again with clickers)

The research has shown that peer engagement and immediate feedback in class results in all students demonstrating improved conceptual learning and problem-solving skills.

How can design of educational spaces support this kind of learning?  If it works well in a traditional lecture hall (where frankly, facing your peers can be physically difficult) can it work better in a space designed for it?

Please share your thoughts...

Short Introductory Video:

Deeper Conversation (what to watch since Lost is off the air):