Solana Ranch Elementary School is sited on a new ten-acre site adjacent to a small park in the heart of the fast developing Pacific Highlands Ranch, the goal was to create a community-oriented school that is sensitive to the neighborhood context. The planning process involved participation by the District staff and the HED design team in the Savings By Design program which encourages a team approach to the design of energy efficient buildings. Photo-voltaic panels are provided on all flat and south facing roofs and could provide as much as 100% power offset.
Key sustainable design strategies for classrooms include: maximizing the passive use of light and energy, learning spaces that maximize the use of controlled natural light, ample shading on windows, balancing natural day lighting while reducing the consumption of energy for artificial lighting and making use of natural cross ventilation.