This project transformed a former corporate park common area into a central outdoor quad for JSerra High School, creating a space that supports daily student life, gatherings, and school traditions. The design reimagines the site as the heart of campus, balancing clear circulation with places to pause, reflect, and connect.
Wide avenues of pavers organize movement through the quad. Student movement patterns were studied through video analysis to understand how the space was actually used, and the design responds by improving flow and creating flexible gathering areas for both informal use and large events.
Seating nodes throughout the quad provide spaces for reflection, prayer, and small gatherings, reinforcing the school’s Catholic identity. A new entry wall defines arrival, while the amphitheater’s tiered seating supports performances, presentations, and everyday student hangouts.
Permeable paving, mission olives for shade, shrine areas, and a dedicated stage are integrated throughout the campus, drawing from local heritage to create a durable, welcoming environment that reflects JSerra’s values.
Domus Studio Architecture created building entrance upgrades and the grand arrival wall and bell archway for ceremonial entrance to the quad. The bells were custom castings with school values inscribed on them and the cross atop the archway is clad in sycamore wood from a local landmark tree that could have been alive during the time the missions were established. The arrival wall doubles as a retaining wall for the amphitheater on the backside.
Photo Credit: JSerra High School
Rendering credit: Land Concern / Domus Studio Architecture
