Carlmont High School

Belmont, CA

Sequoia Union High School District
Modular Gym Design Build – 2009

SSA was faced with the challenging project of adding a new gymnasium to the campus. The budget was too small for conventional on-site construction methods, so it was decided by the client and architect to work with an experienced modular building manufacturer to design and build the new gymnasium. It was important that this large building, prominently sited at the front of?the campus, aesthetically blend with the other buildings and not dominate the site.

The strategic design solution determined the use of different materials and sloping surfaces to visually reduce the mass of the 8,400 Square foot box-shaped gymnasium. Parking was also an important issue and a necessity. The site was reconfigured to add parking, both accessible and regular, to the existing count. The site plan also provides for a beautifully designed and landscaped plaza at the gymnasium entrance which unifies the gym with the existing pool, and track and field below. The plaza utilizes simple patterns and textures in the pavement to create a pleasant gathering space for students. SSA worked very closely with the District staff to achieve a?balance between design, needs, wants and cost of the project.