| Tucked into the hills of Yucaipa, California, Crafton Hills College is renowned for its iconic architecture, designed by the esteemed Palm Springs architect E. Stewart Williams. The campus, characterized by a collection of brutalist-styled buildings terraced down a hillside, was developed by Williams from 1965 to 1976. This architectural heritage provides a fitting backdrop for the college's new 30,000 square foot instructional building, which replaces the former performing arts center.
The new instructional building is designed to house the Student Tutoring Center, the Honors Institute, the Visual Arts Department and Art Gallery, and flexible general assignment spaces. Situated at the heart of the campus, it ensures easy access from the main quad and high visibility, blending seamlessly with the existing landscape and architectural style of the campus.
In collaboration with Crafton Hills College leadership, the San Bernardino Community College District, and key stakeholders, the design team developed a comprehensive program for the new building. Their primary objectives were to provide a state-of-the-art educational experience and create a modern, energy-efficient facility that would serve the student community for decades.
Overcoming 44 feet of elevation change at this unique building site, the new 3-story facility completes the central quad with its level entryway and ties together the iconic architectural language of the campus’ surrounding buildings. Prominent front glazing gives passers-by a glimpse into the dynamic learning environments within, inviting students to participate - or take a leisurely stroll through the newest installations in the Art Gallery.
Occupying the site of the former Performing Arts Building, the new facility integrates seamlessly into the hillside while fronting an active quad area. It offers generous outdoor learning spaces and serves as an access route to the parking and loading area on the south side of the building. The architectural design includes vertical shading fins, deeply recessed windows, and strong horizontal compositions that relate to the cast concrete features of the adjacent original campus buildings.
In line with the San Bernardino Community College District's high sustainability standards, the new instructional building incorporates super-efficient equipment and fixtures, passive shading strategies, a heat-reflective roof, and the use of recycled materials. These features are part of the building's aim to achieve LEED Gold Certification, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship.
The new instructional building at Crafton Hills College represents a significant advancement in the campus's infrastructure, honoring its architectural legacy while providing a modern, sustainable environment for learning. This project not only enhances the educational experience for students but also reinforces the college's dedication to sustainability and innovation.
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