Sacred Heart Schools, Atherton, William V. Campbell Academic and Arts Center

The project takes advantage of the temperate climate with a design that emphasizes wellness and a connection to nature. Using natural lighting and ventilation as much as possible, every design decision was an effort to improve indoor air quality while lowering energy demand. The project is all-electric, minimizes non-renewable energy consumption, sources healthy materials, and conserves water and energy.

A sophisticated monitoring system tracks energy production from the 364 kW rooftop solar photovoltaic system as well as energy and water use, providing real-time data, and doubling as teaching tool and tracker.

Given height restrictions, the three-story, red brick building was designed with one level below grade. A focus on daylight autonomy resulted in the inclusion of light planks, stair program as “light skewers,” and well-placed light monitors. A high-performing building envelope, operable windows, radiant slab heating and cooling, ceiling fans, and automated shades contribute to user comfort, and are evident examples for educational moments.