Laurelwood Elementary School is a new elementary campus for Santa Clara Unified School District in Sunnyvale, California, designed by HMC Architects. It replaces the existing school with a modern, future-ready learning environment.

The project sits on a 10-acre site and includes about 78,250 square feet of new facilities. Its design draws from the area’s agricultural history, especially orchards and barn-like forms. Earth-toned materials, layered textures, and native color accents help the campus feel rooted in place.
The school is organized to feel smaller and more neighborhood-scaled. One-story classroom buildings reduce visual mass and improve accessibility. Flexible learning nodes support collaboration, display, and student gathering. Indoor-outdoor connections extend learning beyond the classroom. Outdoor spaces are designed for age-appropriate activity and exploration.

The project also emphasizes sustainability and long-term efficiency. Goals include CHPS certification and zero net energy readiness.
High-performance systems, shading, and photovoltaic design support reduced energy use. The campus is planned as a welcoming, resilient environment for future generations of students.

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Project Status: SCUSD has said the new Laurelwood Elementary School is scheduled to open in Fall 2026, with construction progressing in phases

Copyright: HMC Architects

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