Science of versatility
A new Science Innovation Center by CAW Architects adds a dramatic public face to its school and reorganises entry points – as well as creating diverse classrooms and outdoor spaces
Designed by CAW Architects
From the architects:
For our latest educational project, CAW Architects designed the new Science Innovation Center at Monterey High School.
The two-storey, 3810m² campus addition features a spacious classroom on the lower floor that serves as a versatile event space, while the upper floor accommodates three classrooms and open collaboration areas.
By creating a transformative presence on the campus, the new building adds a dramatic public face to the school that also reorganises entry and drop-off points, enhancing accessibility.
Strategically sited to leverage Monterey Bay’s stunning vistas, the building integrates outdoor plazas at both the top and bottom of the steep site, offering outdoor learning spaces throughout.
Despite its modest size, the addition significantly impacts the gathering and circulation spaces, introducing ramps and an interior elevator to navigate the steep grades.
Furthermore, the building is uniquely perched to create commanding views over the football fields and ocean, creating a striking presence.
The first floor seamlessly opens to outdoor plazas on either side through large folding doors, transforming into an indoor-outdoor community space for school events while functioning as a classroom on regular school days.
Beyond the primary goal of adding four classrooms, the project contributes new outdoor and gathering spaces, enhanced security boundaries, accessible site circulation, a community gathering space, and even a skybox overlooking the stadium.
Emphasising durability, the exterior features fibre cement panels, concrete, and large windows.
Windows are organised in clusters, providing diffuse natural light to the majority north-oriented classrooms.
The design received appreciation from MPUSD leadership, led by Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh, who supported the team's innovative thinking.
Notably, the project evolved from the initial idea of adding a building at the rear of the campus to a comprehensive solution addressing broader campus planning challenges.
The proposal to demolish a small single classroom building further garnered support from the school district, leading to the successful realisation of the project.
Principal Tom Newton's advocacy for CAW Architects' work adds an extra layer of satisfaction to the accomplishment.
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