As part of a District-wide endeavor to bring each of its nine schools into the 21st Century, funded by local Proposition P, the Ocean Knoll Elementary School modernization was a multi-phased project focused on technology and energy efficiency. The campus as a whole, as well as the classroom, library and Multi-Purpose spaces were retrofitted to bring in new technology, such as solar structures and skylights, as well as improve the existing efficiency with electrical and fire alarm upgrades and a new storm water management program with the use of rain barrels.

StudioWC met with various committees and user groups throughout the planning and design phases. It was important to not only incorporate all of the stakeholder needs, but to incorporate student interaction with the energy features, creating a learning curriculum.

It was important to the District that the new building blend seamlessly with the existing mid century buildings on campus. The pitched roofs and fenistration are complimentary to the existing fabric of the campus.

We bring the project as an example of the quality of project that can come from modular buildings. Given the District’s goals and limited budget, it is important to look at modular construction as a possibility.