In The Loop![]() Ratcliff Architects510.899.6400 Emeryville, CA 94608 Other Elements by this Professional This project involved the renovation of an existing 12,800-square-foot building built in the 1900’s which originally served as a schoolhouse. The new school offers a safe, vibrant, non-toxic environment which utilizes many sustainable elements. Original wood flooring was restored and carpeting made of recycled material was also used. A geothermal ground source HVAC system, one of the first of its kind in an educational building in California, provides heating and air conditioning for the building. This system collects the Earth’s natural heat in winter through a series of pipes, called closed loops, which are installed below the surface of the ground. Fluid circulating in the loops carries heat to the building in winter and to the ground in the summer. Additional Info: Award of Merit for Excellence in Historic Preservation, Napa County Landmarks´ Preservation Action Committee Materials: Geothermal ground source HVAC system Comments: "This school is a great example of how Sustainable technologies do not have to take away from the historic character of a building. There are a number of ways that schools can improve their energy use, without having to build a case study for energy efficient design.” Neil@schooldesigner.com | Private School
: Blue Oak School (private K-4 school) | CA![]() ![]() ![]() Photos: David Wakely |

In Full Suspense



