Burlingame High School has been an important part in the lives of many residents of Burlingame, California, since it first opened in 1923. Modernizing such an institution always requires a great deal of sensitivity and finesse.

The original school was housed in a two-story structure, designed by one of the Bay Area’s most prominent early 20th century architects, W.H. Weeks, in a style that has both mission Spanish and neo-classical features. Post-war additions, which occupy the rear of the campus, were built in a more functional style, with flat roof and window walls. Portable classrooms have been added more recently, eliminating any remaining open space for the students’ social use.

Our campus master plan calls for the removal of all portable classrooms and the demolition of one post-war structure. In their place, a new two-story classroom building and single-story library were added. Both buildings are designed with a mission Spanish theme to connect visually to the main building.

The main building was extensively renovated, with new roof, exterior windows, seismic upgrades, ADA improvements, finishes, HVAC and electrical systems. The renovation transformed the building functionally and technologically, while respecting the architectural character created by the original architect.