California School of Integral Studies

San Francisco, California - 1995

The plans for the restoration of Building 39 at the Presidio were one of the first proposals for conversion of an historic military post by the National Park Service. The retrofitted building was designed as the new of the California Institute of Integral Studies contributing to the Presidio's plan for a central campus of organizations dedicated to sustainability, peace and understanding in the Pacific Rim.

The program for rehabilitation and reuse included classroom spaces, a library, student services, a bookstore, counseling center, cafe, and administrative offices.  The renovation included upgrades to current seismic, fire, life safety, and accessibility standards.  Our approach to the renovations focused on preserving the essential historic character of the building, remediating its toxic materials, and demonstrating the superior environmental qualities of natural ventilation and on-site solar energy generation.