Inderkum High School

Sacramento, CA

Inderkum High School’s outlook for funding was bleak. The Natomas Unified School District overcame this by becoming one of the first districts in the state to use the innovative "lease-leaseback" agreement and also collaborated on a public-private partnership creating a facility connection to the community. Inderkum is part of a larger Regional Education Center which includes a public library, community college and regional park. The unique form of the two-story glass entry atrium intuitively communicates it as the primary entrance. Steel moment frames were the most appropriate structural solution, however following the Northridge Earthquake, steel moment frames were temporarily banned. Working with the Division of the State Architect and utilizing the FEMA testing and subsequent provisions, Inderkum became one of the first California public schools to utilize special steel moment frames in the post-Northridge era.

Quick Facts

  • Size: 235,000 SF
  • Architect: Nacht & Lewis
  • The photovoltaic system generates 450kw which covers about half of the peak electric load
  • Girder trusses in the gym span 115 feet
  • Construction Cost: $58,100,000
  • Contractor: Turner Construction Company
  • The campus is certified LEED Silver by the U.S. Green Building Council
  • The mechanical system incorporates a ground source-heat pump and allows for the continuous introduction of fresh air into the building, improving air quality

Awards

  • 2010 CHPS - Recognized High Performance School
  • 2006 ASCE Region 9 - Architectural Engineering Project of the Year
  • 2005 ASCE Sacramento Chapter - Architectural Engineering Project of the Year
  • 2005 Construction Communications Magazine - Plaque of Honor Award
  • 2005 Facilities Magazine - Top 25 projects in Northern California
  • 2005 Design Share International Forum for Innovative Schools - Citation Award
  • 2005 CASH/AIACC - Leroy F. Greene Award of Excellence & Planning Award of Excellence
  • 2004 Council of Education Facility Planners International - Smart Growth School Designation
  • 2004 CASH/AIACC Design Awards – Award of Excellence for New Built Schools
  • 2003 Council of Education Facility Planners International - Project of Distinction Honor Award

Photo credit: Whittaker Photography