Herman Sanchez Community Center
East San Jose
Addition and Remodel

Main Entrance

Discovery Area

The colorful culture of the community, observations of neighborhood houses and nearby graffiti art lead to the use of vibrant colors throughout the design. This not only occurs on the exterior, but also the interior in the form of wall and floor [colored floor plan above] finishes. Decorative metal panels reference the historical presence of the railroad, specifically the idea of motion and what is seen between moving railroad cars.

Our intention for the addition and remodel of the Herman Sanchez Community Center was two-fold: first, to expand the services and functions of the center to reflect the rich character of the surrounding community and, second, to create a safe and inviting place where the community could come together.

The new community center is comprised of the extensively refurbished gymnasium [the original 5 moment trusses were re-used] and a new building addition that wraps around the gym space, including a child development facility, computer room, community room, exercise room, game room, kitchen, lobby areas, locker and shower facilities, and a reception area with administration offices. The child development facility typology was greatly enhanced through the creation of a ‘discovery area’ which includes a low water trough table, and painting and planting areas delineated by acrylic space dividers.

Reception Area

Plan