Design/Completion 2003/2007
Hermosa Beach, California
20,000 s.f.
Building Structure: Steel frame and concrete masonry
Building Materials: Steel roof and wall panels, exposed masonry, high performance glazing, exterior plaster
On a small existing school site, the Hermosa Beach City School District searched for a way to meet the expanded academic and athletic needs of their students. An extensive series of master planning workshops engaged a broad cross section of stakeholders in shaping the vision for the new facility including program, location, massing and operation. The ultimate design includes a full gymnasium with support facilities, a new library and two science laboratories with an adjacent outdoor science classroom. Acknowledging that future growth must be addressed, the plan allows for the construction of up to five additional classrooms in a two story configuration.
The introduction of a building of the scale required to house a gymnasium into a single story campus surrounded by residential neighbors required sensitivity. The site was chosen for its proximity to the existing slope, allowing the building to hug the shadow of the hillside. The footprint is compact and lean, maximizing the existing open space on the site.
The new library is a transparent jewel that greets the students, inviting them to come inside, grab a book, browse a computer and engage with other students. This is the true heart of the campus, sitting at the crossroads of the athletic and academic lives of the students and teachers.
Creating a “green” setting for the school was a priority. Natural light and ventilation are available for all spaces. Water saving features are used throughout the facility including native plant materials and low flow fixtures. Materials were selected for their recycled content as well as their low embedded energy and ease of long term maintenance. As a result of this environmental awareness the District has adopted “green” policies that will enhance their facilities management far into the future.
