West Los Angeles College (WLAC) offers paths to university transfer, career education and courses for personal or professional growth. DLR Group collaborated with the Los Angeles Community College District on two concurrent projects for the WLAC campus: a General Classroom Building and a Student Services Building. The LEED Gold Classroom Building's functional plan combined with an exciting composition of dynamic façade elements enhance the student experience. Classrooms are primarily located along the northern facade, taking full advantage of the views and solar orientation, while faculty offices are located on the more private south side of the building. Horizontal louvers mitigate solar gain through south-facing windows and provide this facade with a formal architectural element. The Student Services Building facilitates navigation through the enrollment process and intuitively leads students to desired services. A central welcome desk and information kiosk greets students as a first point of contact, providing them with services via quick-access computers, flat screen information monitors, and student help desk.
The 45,000 SF Classroom Building is certified LEED Gold, and comprises 16 classrooms, administrative offices, and a 100-seat lecture room that can double as a venue for cultural events. The 45,000 SF Student Services Building is certified LEED Silver. In addition to its focus on student services it features a food court, indoor and outdoor seating, computer and photocopy resource rooms, and recreation areas. DLR Group provided architecture, interiors, and planning services for both facilities.