SFUSD Visitacion Valley Middle School
Bay Tree Design, along with CAW Architects and Lotus Water Engineering, redesigned the schoolyard at Visitacion Valley Middle School to provide multi-functional spaces that support outdoor learning and connect with the regional landscape of McLaren Park. The project removes 97,000 SF of asphalt from the existing schoolyard. In accordance with funding requirements from CAL FIRE and SFPUC, the project plants over 100 new trees, and accommodates stormwater infrastructure through bioretention areas, bioswales along planting areas, and permeable paving surfaces. New amenities include an outdoor classroom and kitchen, a large amphitheater, a learning garden, ball play areas. New robinia wood play elements provide a variety of age-appropriate physical challenges. Raised mounds throughout the design provide areas for informal socializing within the local chaparral plant community. The project symbolizes a new beginning at VVMS that celebrates and works with local ecosystems and views of the Bay, and emphasizes gathering, learning, and play.
Project Information
Client: San Francisco Unified School District
Location: San Francisco, CA
Size: 5 Acres
Status: 2026 Construction Completion