Washington Boulevard Orthopaedic School

The Washington Boulevard Orthopaedic School in Los Angeles exemplified the Bauhaus modernist ethos by integrating form with function to enhance accessibility in public education. Rooted in the Bauhaus principle that design should serve social needs, the school’s architecture prioritized both physical and sensory accessibility. 

A single-floor layout eliminated barriers, replacing stairs with ramps to ensure seamless movement. Spaces were designed with flexibility in mind, featuring minimal fixed equipment and custom-designed furnishings tailored to students' needs. The structural system, composed of reinforced concrete, ensured safety, while non-slip asphaltic tile floors and acoustically treated ceilings created an environment that was both physically secure and sensory-conscious. Beyond the built environment, accessibility extended to the school’s operations: physicians, nurses, and dietitians supported students within, while an organized fleet of buses and a specialized loading platform ensured safe and efficient transportation. This holistic approach reflected Bauhaus modernism’s influence on accessible design—where aesthetics, functionality, and inclusivity converged to redefine educational spaces.