Howard Building Corporation our-work

West Coast University

Location
Los Angeles
Client
West Coast University
Project Team
Howard Project Management
Valley Plaza, LLC
Lean Associates
Size
42,000 Square Feet
Architect
SAA

Project Description

With over 100 years of education experience, West Coast University is a leader in health care education, with six campuses nationwide. Home to both the undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, the University's Los Angeles campus is known for its casual atmosphere that creates an inviting, comfortable space for students and faculty to collaborate. Architects at SAA teamed with Howard Building Corporation to build the 42,000 square foot campus. The front lobby features a stained concrete entry way, a circular, bamboo-clad reception desk backed by a water feature that invites students and visitors into the “oasis” of the campus. Behind the reception area, the space expands into a common area quad with lofty exposed ceilings and extensive bamboo millwork, creating bleachers, seating areas and hoteling computer work stations for students. Unique pendant fixtures fill the space above with light, and bamboo plank flooring continues the feeling of the oasis introduced in the reception area. Stairs lead to the classrooms, computer labs, and fully functioning clinical and research laboratories upstairs. Administrative offices, faculty and student break rooms, and the campus library complete the facility. Considerable upgrades were made to fire, life, safety (FLS) systems in the building, and the HVAC system was completely upgraded. Extensive use of audio visual systems, digital training tools, and simulated clinical experiences, as well as a fully operable research laboratory, required complex installation and management of utilities throughout the facility. Completed in 14 weeks, the project was a great success for the team, and the campus still thrives today.