Project: Frank C. Havens School, Piedmont, CA
Architects: Carl I. Warnecke & John C. Warnecke, A.I.A.
Owner: Piedmont Unified School District
Photographers: Rondal Partridge & Gabriel Moulin
Date Completed: 1954

Existing School and Site: “The site contained an old 1909 building which was totally inadequate for a modern education program, and which was structurally unsound insofar as the California earthquake laws are concerned. In addition, there was a five-classroom wing, constructed during the 30’s which was structurally sound, and which was retained for classroom use”.

The Problem: “To Provide new space for the kindergarten and first grades in buildings scaled for children, and designed in appearance for good integration with the surrounding residential neighborhood.”

The Solution: “The 12 classrooms were arranged along 2 double loaded corridors. Construction methods were simple, with sloping roof, large gables, and redwood and buff concrete exteriors. Over the corridors and extending over one-third of the classrooms are the continuous skylight and the luminous plastic ceiling, providing an abundance of soft, natural light which flows through the middle of the building.”

Note: Photo 9 shows John C. Warnecke and his children. His children are also seen in photo 1 and 4.