Nestled in the scenic hills of Carpinteria, Cate School, a prestigious university-preparatory institution founded in 1910, recently underwent an exciting transformation!

The seismic upgrade and expansion of Raymond Commons project perfectly blended historic preservation with modern innovation, showcasing how thoughtful engineering can honor the past while preparing for the future. An existing 13,600-square-foot single-story concrete building from the 1920s was repurposed and strengthened with new concrete shear walls, roof elements, and foundations, ensuring its resilience for generations to come.

Complementing this project was a two-story expansion, featuring reinforced concrete shear walls, composite decking, and spread footings, creating a dynamic and structurally sound space. The former cafeteria was also converted into a state-of-the-art library and learning center.

 This 16,000 square-foot project reflects Cate School’s commitment to preserving its rich history while embracing the future maintaining a safe, inspiring environment for students to learn and grow.