NBBJ is the design team behind the revolutionary net-zero school for neurodiverse children in California. Located in Encino, California, the school uses acoustic technologies and integrated flora and natural materials to create a comfortable environment for students with additional needs.
The school is not only revolutionary on the educational front but is also a leader in eco-architecture due to its net-zero capacities. The architects set a target of ILFI Zero Carbon Certification and LEED Gold to achieve its carbon negation. To meet its goals, the firm installed an array of solar panels on the rooftops. The school will also include gardens for the students and will be shaped like a horseshoe with an overhanging roof for additional shade in outdoor areas.
Net-Zero Neurodiverse Schools
NBBJ Designed the Lower School Campus of Westmark School
Trend Themes
1. Net-zero Schools - There is a growing trend of designing schools with eco-friendly features to achieve net-zero goals for carbon negation.
2. Neurodiverse Education - The trend towards accommodating neurodiverse students is gaining traction in educational architecture with more schools offering custom designs.
3. Acoustic Technologies - The growing trend towards designing schools with acoustic technologies can offer improved acoustics for learning and studying.
Industry Implications
1. Education - Customized schools designed for neurodiverse students can disrupt the education industry by providing better learning environments for a unique demographic.
2. Architecture - The trend towards designing net-zero schools can disrupt the architecture industry by challenging designers to create innovative structures with eco-friendly features.
3. Renewable Energy - The trend towards installing solar panels in schools to achieve net-zero goals can disrupt the renewable energy industry by increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions.