Bishop O’Dowd Center for Environmental Studies

Bishop O’Dowd High School’s Center for Environmental Studies (CES) is home to the school’s environmental science and engineering program. Designed to complement the Living Lab – a 4.5-acre hillside restoration site, ecological study area, and wildlife habitat at the perimeter of the campus – a new building and landscape elements tie the Living Lab to the campus core. The new academic building features two large laboratory classrooms, a faculty office and prep space, restrooms, and storage. Sustainable building systems and materials – locally sourced, renewable building materials; roof-mounted photovoltaic panels for renewable power; on-site collection and treatment of storm water, and rainwater harvesting – are easily accessed to serve as teaching tools.

The roof extends well beyond the building envelope to shelter variously-sized patios accessible from the classrooms. The largest covered space functions as an outdoor classroom or a shelter for group gatherings with panoramic views of the Bay. Beyond the porch, wide steps open onto a generous amphitheater.

LEED PLATINUM; ZERO NET-ENERGY VERIFIED; BAY FRIENDLY-RATED LANDSCAPE

AWARDS:

• AIA East Bay COTE Honorable Mention Award for Sustainable Design
• New Buildings Institute ZNE California Schools Leadership Award for Outstanding Building
• Engineering New Record–California: Award of Merit, K-12
• Acterra Business Environmental Award for Sustainable Built Environment