James E. Taylor High School and Natatorium Comprehensive Renovations Katy ISD | Katy TX

IBI Group was tasked with a comprehensive renovation to Katy ISD’s Jame E. Taylor High School and Natatorium. Funded by a bond election as part of a campuswide facility upgrade, the District committed an additional $7MM to the original budget in order to make critical renovations to both the high school and natatorium to better serve the District, local and regional communities.

The pool itself was replastered and refinished, as were the ceiling and roof deck areas above the pool. The main natatorium ventilation system, HVAC, pool equipment (including main drains and some of the below-pool plumbing which had failed) were replaced. New starting blocks, electronic timers and related deck equipment were needed to bring the competition pool in compliance with current District aquatic and athletic standards. The water depth of the pool ranges from 4’3” to 12” in the 30’ x 40’ diving well. The diving well has two new one meter diving boards and a movable double bulkhead.

The original space also had significant acoustic and glare concerns, so another main focus for the new design was to address sound and lighting. The new lighting was designed to be maintenance friendly with levels appropriate for today’s competitions. Lighting design placement was also critical to reduce glare for athletes in the pool. All original conduits, wiring, electric panels and equipment were removed and replaced. All wiring and electronic devices along pathways in the pool area were upgraded as well as the lighting in the natatorium and support spaces. Custom fabricated ceiling components were designed to address the acoustics concerns and bring down reverb times; this also enhanced the aesthetics for the new pool space.

The Design Team also renovated the locker rooms, restrooms, showers and large dressing areas for both men and women. Portable seating was installed to accommodate up to 200 swimmers or spectators.

  • T-Shaped Competition Pool
  • 25 Yard Course; Eight Lane Pool
  • Double Bulkheads
  • Movable Starting Block
  • Electronic Scoreboard
  • Hospitality Room
  • Men and Women Locker Room
  • Two One Meter Diving Boards

“Aside from the overhaul of the pool, the scope of renovation work began by addressing facility deficiencies of all types and sizes-from major upgrades to cosmetic modernization. This included bringing the high school and natatorium up to code (including ADA compliance), a new kitchen, upgrading aquatic components and water treatment systems, addressing HVAC system and lighting issues and replacing all mechanical and electrical systems.”

—Mark French, Director | US Deputy Education Lead | Senior Principal
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