Photo Attributions

General Project Information

Architectural Credit:

NBBJ

Location: Encino, California, United States
Project Substantial Completion Date: 4/8/2024
Program type(s): Education - K-12 School
Total Site Area (gross sq. ft): 26924
Total Building Area (gross sq. ft): 15500
Project substantial completion date: 4/8/2024
Climate zone: 10a
Project site: Previously developed land
Project team: •Architect: NBBJ
•Contractor: Suffolk Construction
•Engineer (Civil): KPFF
•Engineer (MEP): tk1sc
•Engineer (Structural): Fast + Epp
•Landscape: SWA – Los Angeles Studio
•Environmental Graphics: NBBJ
•Lighting: NBBJ
•Sustainability / Energy Analysis: Atelier Ten
•Acoustical: Antonio Acoustics
•Waterproofing: Morrison Hershfield

Project Overview:
One in five children have learning differences. Yet most schools are not designed with neurodiversity in mind, which hinders learning for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia. The design of the Lower School campus of Westmark School—which supports students with language-based learning differences—creates an inclusive, welcoming and nature-infused environment, featuring mass timber and other natural materials.

The design, gathered around a sycamore tree, aligns the architectural design to the aspirations of the school. Right-sized classrooms and learning environments provide flexibility, healthy daylight and air quality, while features embrace physical movement, proper sound attenuation and shaded open space for indoor-outdoor learning.

Submission portfolio