The Core Performance Center was built in the heart of the Santa Monica College campus. Here, the focus is on physical and sports activities for students. In addition to a gym, a dance studio and a weights room, the new complex also accommodates group exercise rooms, classrooms and offices. Designed to LEED Silver standards, the project emphasizes sustainable measures such as solar-heated hot water and natural lighting. It therefore comes as no surprise that the architects used öko skin slats as their facade material. The glassfibre reinforced concrete elements impress with their robust, durable, fire-resistant and natural properties. Photos: Ditz Fejer