This project introduced high-performance building features to create the first LEED Platinum public school building in the Bay Area. In need of a new gymnasium for its growing student population, the school district tapped Cody Anderson Wasney Architects to design a new 18,000 square foot gymnasium plus a new campus plaza and drop-off area. The gym is highlighted by a light-filled, north-facing glass lobby that invites students and patrons into the gymnasium and campus beyond.
IDeAs led the design of the electrical engineering, lighting, daylighting and photovoltaic systems to support the the school district’s goals for achieving the highest standards for energy consumption and sustainability. The design solutions integrated a large clerestory at the roof ridge with translucent Calwall that fills the gym with abundant diffuse natural daylight. This allows for daytime use of the gym without any electric light sources during daylight hours. The entire roof surface of the building employs a thin film photovoltaic panel to generate power from the sun and offset the energy needs of the building. Now considered a model for how architects can shape sustainability within educational environments as well as an educational tool for the students who use the building daily, the Sequoia Union Gymnasium furthers the educational mission of the school district and community in multiple important ways.
