California Maritime Academy

The Maritime Academy is located in Vallejo, California on a site with a relatively small area of unused flat space. While the original master plan by a previous architect had designated that the residence halls be located on the flat areas, we determined that the site could be used more effectively by locating the residence halls on the adjacent slopes with the Commons Building located at the base. The south-facing location of the residence halls allowed better use of the land, enhanced views, and provided better access to breezes off the bay. Basic elements of passive solar design are evident in this design.

The Residence Halls are clustered in three separate buildings, each three stories in height, and each containing approximately 31,000 square feet. The basis of design was a unit of eight persons, two to a room. The cluster concept was considered to be more conducive to privacy, quiet, and a community feeling.

The Commons Building includes Duty Officer living quarters, recreation, visitor areas, a sick bay, and maintenance spaces. It is the administrative core of the Residence Halls, and contains approximately 6,600 square feet.

The project was completed in October of 1977. It received an AIACV Merit Award in 1978.

Photographs by Joshua Friewald.