T&B Engineering Delivers Structural Engineering for Hollencrest Middle School Gymnasium

We’re proud to share the successful completion of a major project for Hollencrest Middle School in West Covina, California. This summer marked the opening of a new, state-of-the-art, 18,000-square-foot gymnasium.

This project was a significant addition to the school’s campus, providing a much-needed, modern space for physical education, sports, and community events. But beyond its function, the project stood out structurally and technically for several reasons.

A Unique Structural Approach

This project was unique because the gymnasium was designed using a robust system of concrete shearwalls, steel roof framing, and metal deck, offering long-term durability and seismic resilience. This is a critical consideration in Southern California. All structural analysis and design coordination were completed using RAM Steel, which allowed for efficient modeling and collaboration across the design team.

Breaking New Ground with Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)

What truly sets this project apart was the use of Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs), a system rarely used in California public school construction. ICFs offer excellent thermal performance, sound insulation, and speed of construction, but their application in DSA-reviewed projects is still quite uncommon.

This was, in fact, the first time DSA (Division of the State Architect) reviewed and approved a system using ICFs for this type of facility. That required an extraordinary level of collaboration, detailing, and documentation throughout design and construction.

Precision in Detailing

Due to the novelty of ICFs in a DSA context, meticulous detailing was crucial. Every connection, transition, and interface between systems had to be carefully considered and clearly communicated. The design team worked closely with the contractor and DSA reviewers to ensure clarity and compliance at every step. It was a rewarding challenge that pushed us to think critically about material compatibility, structural behavior, and constructability.

A Project with Lasting Impact

The completed gymnasium isn’t just a new facility, it’s a precedent-setting project for California school construction. It demonstrates how innovative construction systems like ICFs can be successfully implemented in public K–12 environments when paired with thoughtful design and a collaborative approach.

We’re proud to have been part of this forward-thinking project and look forward to seeing the impact it will have on the Hollencrest Middle School community for years to come. If you’re planning a school, civic, or commercial project that demands innovative structural solutions, partner with T&B Engineering. Contact our team to discuss how we can bring the same level of expertise and collaboration to your next project. (951) 684-6200