I just attended the July meeting about the new Porter Ranch School. At this meeting more design pictures were revealed. Ricki Binder the architect discussed her idea behind the design. She wanted to create a functional building that would take into account our high wind situation in Porter Ranch along with shelter from the direct sunlight.
The design begins with a large rectangular bell tower at the front entrance to the school creating an orientation point for the administration. The rest of the design of the other buildings can be described as large sculptured pieces or geometric shapes.
The reveal was met with mixed reviews. Many spoke out about the geometric design and concern over the structure of the gymnasium. This structure in particular will be located along Sesnon. An S&S developer who attended the meeting spoke out about how he felt the design did not match the current architecture of an Italian/ Spanish neighborhood. The President of the Renaissance HOA had big concerns over the structure their community would have to look down upon from above. He felt the structure was not appealing at all and his community, who made a large investment in the property they bought, would be disappointed. Many felt the structure did not match the Porter Ranch roof line and some felt the gymnasium looked like a "lean to" structure.
The architect defended herself saying the design was heartfelt and with the best intentions. She wished to give Porter Ranch a piece of Modern Architecture. Obviously she was off the mark.
By the end of the meeting the LAUSD got the message and the design will have to be modified.
I think it's fantastic the interest in this new school and how we as a community are being able to influence what LAUSD will design.
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