September 22, 2023

Ground has been broken for the Newport-Mesa Unified School District's new performing arts complex on the Estancia High School campus in Costa Mesa. The project site fronts Placentia Avenue on the north end of the Estancia Campus, establishing a new campus gateway building, which will welcome the surrounding neighborhood communities via a glass lobby—a Beacon of Light—offering opportunities to "see and be seen," fostering connection. The architecture of the building suggests movement through its sloping glass walls and terra cotta infills; colorful walls will be a draw to the site. The building and its landscape improvements will also strengthen the north end of the campus, bridging the existing campus buildings and pathways to foster a more cohesive campus design. The material palette draws from natural elements: the rich textures of terra cotta wall panels, board formed natural concrete, metal paneling, and glass. These elements define a timeless architectural style about which the district and the community can be proud. The building meets CALGreen standards for planning and design, energy and water efficiency and conservation, and environmental quality. It is oriented to take advantage of daylighting, with overhangs for shade, employs occupancy sensors for lighting and temperature, has an efficient MEP system, a “solar ready” rooftop, and drought resistant plantings.