San Quentin Learning Center has been recognised as the Best Government/Public Building in California by ENR West

San Quentin Learning Center has been recognised as the Best Government/Public Building in California by ENR West in the 2026 Best Projects competition. The project also received the Award of Merit for Excellence in Safety.

We are proud to see this recognition of a project that radically redefines what a correctional facility can be. The transformation of San Quentin reflects a shift from incarceration to rehabilitation, creating a place where education, well-being, and human dignity support successful reintegration into society.

Designed as a learning-focused campus, the project brings together classrooms, workshops, a library, media and technology labs, a café, meeting spaces, and outdoor learning environments. These are linked through a network of pathways and green spaces that encourage community, movement, and access to nature.

Thank you to everyone whose expertise, dedication, and commitment helped bring this important new environment for learning and rehabilitation to life.

The project was realised in collaboration with McCarthy Building Companies and DLR Group.

Photo: Kyle Jeffers