Oakland Tech Health Center is a project directed by Oakland Unified School District in collaboration with Oakland Tech High School, La Clínica de la Raza, and Lincoln Child Care to relocate and expand an existing health center within the main building of the Oakland Tech High School campus. The new facility provides a range of medical, dental, and mental health services, available to both the students and the local community. The Oakland Tech Health Center serves as a vital Oakland hub by providing a clean and welcoming space that can address the social, economic and physical conditions of the school and neighborhood.

The design provides a balance of public and private space. Entering the center, one finds an open public zone which includes a reception desk, conference room, and student lounge. This common area allows for activity and interaction to occur in order to build relationships between the students and staff, as well as the community.

Beyond reception is a private zone where clinic services are provided. The windows along the perimeter bring in natural light and a connection to the outside. The central hubs containing the lab and offices are detached from the upper ceiling, creating a sense of openness above and a visual connection throughout overall space. The rooms along the perimeter are full height with transom windows, providing transparency while still maintaining privacy.

The interiors use wood partitions and finishes to bring a sense warmth and intimacy to the space. Frosted glass panels at the office corners provide a quality of lightness and transparency.

The project is being designed to be meet the permitting requirement of Division of State Architect.  In addition, the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD)’s category III design requirements are being implemented.