A.S.C.E.N.D. is a new 360-student, small, autonomous school serving grades K-8.  The school is committed to educating  children through project-based learning expeditions, an approach to learning that integrates curriculum, connects students with the community, cultivates curiosity, encourages creativity and emphasizes expression through art.

The compact 2-story building design allowed existing school facilities to remain operable during construction.  The vibrant color schemes are coordinated throughout the school and special ‘niches’ were made available for each grade level to showcase student artwork in the main entry area.  The art and music classrooms are conveniently located near the theater and multi-purpose area.

Due to its location adjacent to BART train tracks, noise reduction was critical in the design of this school.  Classrooms, the multi-purpose room, hallways, and the playground area were all designed to reduce external noise and use internal noise as a buffer.  A sound wall was placed along the entire length of the outdoor play area.

Location: Oakland, CA

Client: Oakland Unified School District

Project Type: New Building

Size: 53,000 sq ft total

Components:

• Multi-Use Room
• Classrooms