The original Bodega Bay School had been devastated by the elements and pests in this coastal environment and, accordingly, existed a relatively short time for a California school.  AXIA Architects shepherded a process that allowed the use of the school during condemnation proceedings and construction of the new school. The district wanted a school design that met their educational program and budget, resisted the elements, and fit into the fabric of the small coastal community.  AXIA developed a design that was very residential in scale and style, tending toward the traditional cottages typical of homes in the neighborhood. The classrooms were oriented around a central community space with a large south-facing window wall. Available sunlight is absorbed by the exposed radiant heated concrete slab.