The project converted three levels of the former Sears Building in Santa Monica, CA, into a 100,000 SF temporary campus for Palisades Charter High School, accommodating more than 2,500 students displaced by the 2025 Palisades Fire. Completed in just four weeks, the scope included constructing 90 classrooms of varying sizes using partial-height, non-rated partition walls with sound stage–style acoustic blankets, finished to Level 2 quality. Fire alarm and fire suppression systems were extended to meet code requirements, and a light HVAC system provided temporary conditioning to classrooms while corridors and other spaces remained unconditioned. Electrical infrastructure supported classroom operations with lighting in classrooms and circulation areas, and wireless connectivity for monitors and televisions was provided by others. Additional work included installing 30 miles of wiring, 48,000 SF of acoustic insulation, and carpeting equivalent to two football fields. The basement and roof remained unchanged, and all construction was temporary, not meeting permanent installation standards.
- Expertise
- Palisades Charter High School – Pali High School, Temporary Campus