The original Hoover High School Gymnasium was constructed in 1963 and was characterized as being undersized from the day it opened. Further, not only was the gym too small, it was inaccessible to the physically disabled, which made the need for a new gymnasium critical.

The 27,522-square-foot addition was designed to tie-in with the existing gym to create an “ Event Center.” Tilt-Up was selected for its attributes of low-maintenance, durability and fire-resistance, as well as the need to match the construction of the existing gym.

Great use of the juxtaposition of elements and materials prompted the judges to choose the project for an award.

Since the new gymnasium was built adjacent to the original facility, the team worked hard to incorporate a solution that successfully deemphasized the existing entry to the old gym by providing a new curvilinear raised concrete planter that redirects the circulation pattern. This planter area is landscaped with a row of coast Redwood trees to further act as a visual screen of the old entry, which now becomes a secondary entrance to be used only by the students and staff.

Tilt-Up was selected because it provided a clean facility without numerous interior columns. To minimize the visual impact a big box gymnasium would have on the school, trapezoidal flutes and reveals were utilized to create patterns in the concrete, breaking down the box.

With seating for more than 2,800 students with folding chairs on the court, the event center has become the meeting place for district wide functions that require a large seating capacity.