Not all sites are ideal. this particular plot is located almost directly beneath the LAX flight path in a rough south los angeles neighborhood sharing a space with the every-busy 105 century freeway. renowned practice brooks + scarpa took after the similarly situated schools of curtis and davis in new orleans to create a structure that was not only acoustically and visually comfortable, but would also become a leader in passive systems despite the challenging context it finds itself in. when approaching the school the first impression is made from the 650 solar panels that wrap the southern facade momentarily breaking to allow a window to pop through.
This grid-like aesthetic element collects and accounts for 75% of the school's total energy use, reducing carbon emissions by over 3 million pounds produced to educate its 500 students. an open air lobby space feeds into a naturally shaded multi-functional courtyard space with pull-out bleachers for assemblies. covered but well ventilated spaces benefit from the temperate climate and give every student access to fresh air from any classroom. the integration of natural light along the linear footprint additionally helps minimize the need for extra energy use, with design elements that carefully balance aesthetics, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.