2008 MBI Award of Distinction
First Place: Modular Building Design
Category: Permanent Education, under 5,000 sq. ft.
Location: Altadena, CA
Total Size: 2520 sq. ft.
Building Use: Elementary school classroom building
Production Started: 07/09/07
Date of Occupancy: 09/24/07
First Place
The building contains three classrooms and is part of a private elementary school. As the building is located on the historic Scripps Mansion property, it was designed to fit in with the environment. The building is used by young children and is surrounded by mature trees therefore a tree house theme was selected. These surrounding oak trees are protected by state law and could not be disturbed during construction and the modular construction minimized site disruption. Wood and other natural materials are used extensively throughout the project to accentuate this feel. The elevated position of the building further blends it with the trees. The building features traditional, conservative architecture with a 4/12 dual slope roof with covered natural colored. The architecture combined with subtle colors allows the building and the surroundings to intermingle.
Technical Innovation
A number of green technologies and materials were used in the project. The floor and ceiling feature R-30 Formaldehyde free insulation. Cementitious wallboard product was used on the interior walls and a tape/texture finish was applied. In addition to being extremely durable, the wallboard is mold and fire resistant. VOC free paint was used for both the interior and exterior of the building for superior air quality. For decorative indirect lighting, wall sconces with compact florescent bulbs are located in the main areas. In addition to the wall sconces, parabolic florescent fixtures are placed throughout the building which allow fewer fixtures to be used. The roof mounted 12.5 IPLV rating HVAC systems save interior space and reduce interior noise. VOC and Formaldehyde free decorative ceiling tiles are used throughout the building. In addition to being attractive these tiles will not contribute to microbial growth and mold. Durable and mold resistant Marmoleum is used as floor covering.