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Branson School Student Commons by Turnbull Griffin Haesloop Architects

04.11.12 | By
Branson School Student Commons by Turnbull Griffin Haesloop Architects

Turnbull Griffin Haesloop Architects created quite the learning environment for high school students with this independent school design located in Marin, California.

The 7550-square-foot Branson School Student Commons gives students a much-needed gathering space with an unusual degree of connection to the outdoors. Sited in a narrow glen between upper and lower campuses, the structure includes a dining hall, a kitchen, offices, a lounge, and support spaces and acts as the heart of the campus. Three large overhead doors open onto a generous plaza for dining, meeting, and outdoor learning. Extensive glazing provides views of the hills and floods the space with natural light. The building is LEED Platinum certified; sustainable strategies include a living roof, radiant heating, natural ventilation, photovoltaic panels, and pervious paving.

They also designed an impressive arts center for Branson, too. Can I go back to high school please?

Photos by David Wakely.

Jaime Derringer, Founder + Executive Editor of Design Milk, is a Jersey girl living in SoCal. She dreams about funky, artistic jewelry + having enough free time to enjoy some of her favorite things—running, reading, making music, and drawing.