Construction has topped out for the new La Scuola International School building at 3270 18th Street in the Mission District, San Francisco. The project will add a third structure to the Italian-immersion school’s Mission Campus. Build Group is the construction contractor responsible for the construction.
La Scuola International School, rendering by Jensen Architects
La Scuola International School front view, rendering by Jensen Architects
Once complete, the four-story structure is expected to provide educational facilities for students in grades five through eight. The complex will include a rooftop amenity deck open to adults, Grade 8 students, and younger students with teacher supervision.
The Italian architecture firm ZPZ Partners is responsible for the design, working in partnership with the architect of record, Jensen Architect. The curtain-wall façade overlooking 18th Street is the most significant expression of the school’s pedagogy, filling the interiors with vibrant light. Natural materials will be integrated inside, primarily with wood.
La Scuola International School new building rising next to the existing St Charles Building, image by Andrew Campbell Nelson
La Scuola International School elevation next to the existing St. Charles Building, rendering by Jensen Architects
La Scuola International School entry-room, rendering by Jensen Architects
According to the school website, the new facility will “become the main entrance to our campus and will house our food atelier and dining room, upper elementary and middle school classrooms, extended care space, library, and more.” The interior design draws inspiration from the Reggio Emilia program to foster education through exploration, creativity, and experimentation.
The structure is rising along 18th Street between the slow-street section of Shotwell Street and South Van Ness Avenue. Students are a block from the In Chan Kaajal Park public park, and two blocks from the transit thoroughfare along Mission Street.
La Scuola International School interior class-room, rendering by Jensen Architects
La Scuola International School landscaped playground, rendering by Jensen Architects
The development is paid for through donations and tax-exempt bond financing. Completion is expected by April of next year, with the facility open for the 2026-2027 school year.
Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail
Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates
Like YIMBY on Facebook
Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews
Compare the architecture of the Victorian building with the new school building.
Which is more pleasing to the eyes?
It’s private land, design style should have no impact whether it should be allowed. If you want to build Victorian buildings, you are welcome to buy land and build it to your liking
The beauty is in the deliberate contrast between the two. I also love how the new building uses concrete for what concrete does best instead of trying to cantilever a bunch of riprap off of it.