The Design Process

CHALLENGE: Flanked by two iconic structures, the U.S. Navy and Marine

Corps Air Station (M.C.A.S.) North and South blimp hangars, the design

team was faced with the challenge of creating a campus that would fit in

with its historic neighbors, accommodate advancements in education and

technology, and create a learning environment that would optimize focus,

space and creativity.

“Solatube tubular skylights provided an exceptionally good

solution to daylighting the large open areas within the

building. We decided to celebrate the daylighting pathway

and its capability as a feature that greets you at the building

entries.”

- Thomas W. Kruse, Architect of Record

CLIENT

Tustin Unified School District

Sustainability

CHALLENGE

Create a one-of-a-kind campus that will

empower students to think, create, adapt and

invent.

RESULTS

A striking and high-performing daylighting

solution was used to meet design goals and

promote a healthy and inspiring learning

environment.

SOLUTION: To properly daylight the campus and meet

design goals, the Tustin Legacy Magnet Academy utilized

the Solatube Brighten Up Series 290 DS units.

Solatube International worked closely with the design team

to create a striking and high-performing solution which

entailed placing the 30 foot long vertical Solatube tubes

inside corrugated metal tubes to create a one-of-a-kind

effect where the broad spectrum daylight would perfectly

illuminate the space below. The beautiful long tubes not

only enhance the building design but feature minimal

light loss due to Solatube’s advanced optics and superior

Spectralight Infinity tubing material. Additionally, Solatube

Daylight Dimmers were also fitted to each Solatube system

allowing teachers and staff to adjust room daylight levels

simply and easily.

The exterior design took great inspiration from the iconic

M.C.A.S. hangar bay doors next door. These designs

include the use of all wood-framed construction, parabolic

shaped roofs, outdoor trellis, and curtain walls.

RESULTS: This dynamic design resulted in an extraordinary

space, delivering distinct personality to the Tustin Legacy

Magnet Academy. The concept of energy savings and

sustainability are demonstrated to the students throughout

the campus - not just in the textbooks - and both students

and teachers alike will reap the many benefits provided by

natural light.

Awards

IES Illumintation Award