Founded in 1925, the Japanese Institute of Sawtelle has long served as a cultural and educational anchor for the community. Originally established to teach the Japanese language and heritage to American-born children of immigrants, the institute evolved over time into a vital community hub and continues today as a nonprofit dedicated to serving a diverse and changing membership.

Nous Engineering supported the renovation and expansion of the campus, as part of a broader master plan, to enhance functionality, accessibility, and identity, including the introduction of a new Japanese Immersion Pre-school.

The project included significant upgrades to the existing facility and the addition of a structurally independent exterior canopy/trellis. Interior renovations opened classroom spaces by removing select walls, while expanded window openings and new skylights bring abundant natural light into the building. 

Seismic reinforcement was integrated throughout, resulting in a resilient, light-filled environment that honors the Institute’s legacy while supporting its future growth.