23 California Buildings • Q2 2022
yet it uses conventional mechanical equipment. The visually subtle solution, applied by Buro Happold based on systems made by manufacturer AirFloor™, is a perfect complement to the work by Selldorf Architects, which the LaJolla Light says, “celebrates and makes sense” of MCASD’s architectural history, “connecting the styles of original architect Irving Gill with those of architects who renovated the museum in later decades.” Within all the galleries, the unique air systems supply spaces through understated wall reveals, allowing for needed airflow without impacting the design. In fact, it creates a unifying and seamless solution for a building that has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. It also delivers the carefully tuned climate that is essential in modern galleries. (See photo at left.) Photos: Nicholas Venezia, courtesy of Selldorf Architects.
Riverside County Facility Becomes Magnet School for Arts The $38 million reconstruction of the 71,277-squarefoot Menifee Valley Middle School was just completed by C.W. Driver Companies. The project transitioned the campus to a magnet school focused on visual and performing arts. The renovation incorporates critical aspects of an art-focused middle school, the addition of two new classroom buildings, restorations to the Visual and Performing Arts Center, construction of an open-concept library and repairs to existing locker rooms. Roughly 15 miles north of Temecula, the project consisted of the reconstruction of temporary portables into new, permanent classrooms and lab spaces that create a centralized academic courtyard and cohesive community. To support Menifee Valley Middle School’s transition to becoming a visual and performing arts magnet school, a new music and choir space, as well as a renovated stage in the Visual and Performing Arts Center, were added. The campus introduces outdoor learning areas as well as active learning spaces optimized for use in the arts, music and sciences known as Flex Labs. “By leveraging decades of K-12 construction experience, we were proud to deliver a cutting-edge campus that will serve the growing Menifee community both now and well into the future,” said Eric Metzger, project manager at C.W. Driver Companies. “The tactful modernization of Menifee Valley Middle School allows for the space to adapt as educational and enrollment needs evolve over time.” In order to increase student academic performance, research-based lighting design was carefully considered.
Large windows adorn the classrooms, allowing for abundant natural light. The school’s new library includes a flexible plan configuration, collaboration spaces to facilitate group work and soft seating areas for students seeking a quiet, comfortable place to study. On the athletic front, renovations to existing locker rooms include ADA upgrades, AV improvements and a washer/dryer addition. The campus features a clean and contemporary façade that is energy efficient and comfortable for students and staff. “We carefully considered and incorporated input from our school community during the planning and construction phases of the reconstruction,” said Dr. Jennifer Root, superintendent at Menifee Union School District. “The result is a beautiful, collective effort from which we will teach and encourage students to live out the district’s vision of 'Engaging Young Minds for Limitless Futures' for years to come.” Photo credit: Zach Benson Photography.