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architectural rendering of centennial high school; modern red building with people; courtyard, gathering area, public zone

Centennial High School

Community Vision Redefines Urban Education

Client

Compton Unified School District

Project Location

Compton, CA

Area

200,000 SF

Capacity

1000

Compton Unified School District’s new Centennial High School elevates its scholars and city to all-new levels. Developed through a collaborative process and workshops, our design aligns with local values and aspirations. Bold and modern elements complement the aesthetic of the new Compton High School, which opened in 2025, while capturing the unique history and legacy of Centennial. The campus is a symbolic reflection of the diverse voices of the community, creating a sense of belonging that resonates authentically with every student, teacher, and staff member.

Flexible environments that emphasize arts and project-based learning support the district’s vision for innovative educational programming at the new school. Learning suites redefine the traditional approach to education by breaking down the rigid walls of classrooms and serving as launch pads for student projects and global connections. Labs and maker spaces scattered throughout the learning suites are equipped to support experimentation, innovation, and practical application of knowledge.

Rise: For Many. For Us.

Our design reflects both the strength and vulnerability of the community through the concept of “rise.” This concept manifests in the synergy of architectural elements, as the buildings gracefully unite and ascend from the earth. The campus extends a warm invitation to the community, a gesture of inclusivity that goes beyond mere physical structures to become a celebratory space for all.



01
School Identity

Arts and Culture

Our design places a strong emphasis on arts and culture, which are integral to the school’s identity. Modern performing arts spaces, including areas for music, dance, and multimedia production, encourage student expression and creativity. Team teaching is supported through interconnected spaces that enable a cross-disciplinary approach to teaching. Small group rooms are strategically placed to facilitate collaborative work, offering dedicated areas for students to come together, brainstorm, and complete projects in an intimate setting.

interior architectural rendering of centennial high school; interior atrium gathering area with students on bleacher style stairs in a double height space; colorful and bright interior design
interior rendering of centennial high school; modern bright interior classroom with varied seating; and people collaborating on school work
02
Public Facing

Plaza and Performance Spaces

Public spaces like the entry plaza and performance courtyards invite collaboration and engagement, turning the campus into a communal hub. These spaces encourage interactions beyond the classroom, making the school a focal point for events, performances, and community gatherings. Dynamic multimedia installations and student-created murals transform the campus into a vibrant celebration of Compton’s cultural richness.

architectural rendering of centennial high school; modern red building with people; courtyard, gathering area, public zone
architectural rendering of centennial high school; modern red building with people; courtyard, gathering area, public zone
03
Conservation

Energy Reduction

Centennial High School is a model for sustainability and environmental stewardship. Our design aims for a 50% reduction in energy use compared to national averages, integrating high-performance strategies that reduce the environmental footprint and create healthier learning spaces. Natural light and ventilation contribute to the wellbeing of students and staff while reducing energy consumption. Water conservation is achieved through efficient irrigation systems and native landscaping.

interior rendering of centennial high school; modern bright interior library with book shelves; modern red building with people; gathering area, public zone
architectural rendering of centennial high school; modern red building with people; courtyard, gathering area, public zone

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