Library and Classroom Building
Cate School

As originally conceived through Blackbird’s master plan for Cate School, this project adaptively re-uses a historic dining hall for a new academic hub – the Inquiry Collaborative – that supports the dynamic, inquiry-based education programs at Cate. The 16,000 sf, two-story building features media and technology studios, classrooms, ceramics studio, study pods, offices, a double-height terraced reading/lecture space, and the school’s library collection. The design sensitively revitalizes key historic spaces in the building including the McIntosh Room while creating bright and airy learning spaces with stunning ocean views. Refreshed patio and garden spaces for study and gathering expand upon campus-wide amenities for learning outdoors.
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  • Location

    Carpinteria, CA

  • Services

    Architecture, Interiors, Master Plan


Blackbird Team | Ken Radtkey, Adam Sharkey, Stefan Farmazon, Alayna Fraser, Alisa Oberjuerge, Ambikesh Mishra, James Kyle, Liqiang Huang, Ray Twyford
Landscape Architect | VAI Van Atta Associates Inc.
Civil Engineer | Ashley & Vance Engineering
Structural Engineer | John A. Martin & Associates
Electrical Engineer & Lighting Design | Alan Noelle Engineering
Mechanical, Plumbing and T-24 Engineering | Mechanical Engineering Consultants, Inc.
Planning Consultant | Suzanne Elledge Planning & Permitting Services, Inc.
Acoustician | Rothermel Associates
General Contractor and Owner Representative | Hartigan/Foley General Building Contractors, Inc.
Fire Protection Engineer | Schram Fire Protection Engineering
Photography | Alex Nye