VMDO Architects

VMDO Architects designed a 30,000 square feet addition to Westwood Hills Elementary, a 40 year-old community school. Meanwhile, the existing 38,000 SF were extensively renovated. Westwood Hills, which opened in December 1999, has an increased student capacity of 500and a rated capacity of 625.

A highly-articulated entrance canopy puts a fresh face on the school, and welcomes children arriving by either car or bus. Inside the school, a new administration wing provides much-needed space for the expanded staff, and the renovated kitchen supports an enlarged dining room. The expanded school features a new gymnasium, library, art and music rooms as well as eight additional classrooms. The new construction encloses an exterior courtyard and creates an efficient circulation loop within the revamped school.

The gymnasium hosts after-school programs for both children and adults, and boasts a competition-quality basketball court. The tall, sunny library interior provides contemplative space for reading and looks out on the broad lawn south of the school. In both of these new spaces, clerestory lighting minimizes artificial light. The art room, with abundant north light, opens onto a “fine arts terrace” in the newly formed courtyard. Art, music and science classes share this landscaped space for crafts, performances or outdoor teaching. A preschool classroom provides a nurturing environment for the school’s youngest pupils. Site improvements include stormwater management and enlarged, repaved and newly lit parking lots. Outdoor paved play space has also increased.