By modernizing two classroom buildings and linking them with a smartly landscaped courtyard, Vista-based Sprotte+Watson Architecture & Planning drew new life into the 57-year-old El Cajon Valley High School. Completed in just 19 months, the renovation of the 700 North and 700 South buildings was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 25 at the East County high school.
The $4.66 million, 19,150-square-foot modernization and expansion project is the second in a five-phase master plan Sprotte+Watson was contracted to execute for the Grossmont Union High School District. It helps Career Technical Education students prepare for internships, postsecondary education and employment by providing them with well-equipped, adaptable learning spaces, as well as outdoor areas for displays and meetings. The original 9,000-square-foot buildings were updated with new video production and photography studios, computer labs, and an exterior ceramics area for kilns and lockers.
“It is truly amazing and beautiful,” said Diane Kuney, video production/site tech coordinator at El Cajon Valley High School. “Everyone who has seen it is so impressed. It is a dream come true and I am truly honored to be able to work in such an awesome environment.”
Escondido-based Erickson-Hall Construction Co. was the general contractor. The delivery method was CM Multi-Prime. Consultants included Wiseman + Rohy of San Diego (structural engineer); Turpin & Rattan of La Mesa (electrical engineer); Cherry Engineering of Poway (civil engineer); Merrick and Associates of San Diego (mechanical engineer); George Mercer Associates of La Mesa (landscape architect); Protection Design and Consulting of San Diego (fire sprinkler consultant); and Acoustic Dimensions of El Cajon (acoustic engineer for TV studio).
Founded in 1996, Sprotte+Watson Architecture & Planning offers a full spectrum of design and construction management services with projects ranging from educational institutions to luxury resorts. Veterans in infusing diverse, urban environments with new architecture, the firm designs with the future in mind.
