TEF Design recently completed a multi-year expansion of Live Oak School, an independent K-8 school occupying a former Hills Bros Coffee plant in San Francisco. The work took place in four phases over eight years to minimize impacts during the academic year. The design supports the school's progressive curriculum by supporting interaction, camaraderie, and individualized instruction that meets the students where they are.
In addition to creating new classrooms, casual learning/teaching spaces, and admin spaces, TEF also relocated key elements of the building to enhance learning. Moving the central stairwell established an uninterrupted circulation spine with clear sightlines from one end of the building to the other. Relocating the multi-use Grand Hall-the school's cafeteria/assembly space, performance venue, and after school center-allowed for increased capacity and the introduction of a full-service commercial kitchen that can prepare hot lunches.
TEF also created a new hub for the middle school with an academic living room and social space. Just off the hub, the 'Brainery' provides a classroom/workspace for tutoring and academic counseling.
The last phase added a new rooftop play yard with a stunning view of downtown San Francisco.
Photography: David Wakely