Highlands Elementary School Multipurpose Room

From undervalued to multifunctional.

The multipurpose room is a staple on K–12 campuses, yet many sit empty when not being used during lunchtime or assemblies. As school districts seek to optimize their capital investments, these spaces represent a largely untapped resource, capable of accommodating activities ranging from learning and dining to celebrations, performances and play. At Highlands Elementary School, LPA partnered with educators to design a facility that benefits students, parents and the broader community through adaptable programming.

During early planning sessions, the project team encouraged stakeholders to think beyond single uses. To maximize the multipurpose room’s potential, designers planned for quick, easy transitions — from a cafeteria and theater to a venue for physical-education classes, parent-teacher association meetings and community gatherings. Circulation space was strategically reduced by flanking the double-height room with support areas. Storage, mechanical access and restrooms are on one side, while a kitchen and servery are on the other — enabling the school to provide hot lunches and concessions while enhancing the room’s versatility and leasing appeal. Furthermore, engineers and architects collaborated to conceal the electrical, plumbing and fire-protection systems.

Inspired by the midcentury homes of the San Mateo Highlands — the largest Eichler neighborhood in the country — the 8,000-square-foot structure incorporates a low-profile roofline, extensive glazing and seamless indoor-outdoor connections. Dark-hued, high-quality plaster covers the building’s facade, while rain chains direct water from the high roof to lower roofs. Oversized operable doors allow for open-air events, and additional openings extend the building’s connection to the shaded plaza and play areas. Warm wood ceilings create an inviting atmosphere while improving acoustic performance. Because the school is located near the San Andreas Fault, the project team also engineered a braced steel frame to meet seismic requirements.

Sustainability is central to this project's success. The all-electric building achieves a 97% reduction in energy use and is designed to be net-zero ready through the future installation of photovoltaic panels.

By rethinking the traditional multipurpose room, LPA revitalized this underutilized campus hub into a flexible, high-performing space for learning, connection and engagement.