White Bear Lake High School

Overview
The White Bear Lake High School (WBLHS) additions project, completed as part of a $150M district-wide referendum in 2019, showcases the seamless integration of architectural vision with innovative structural engineering. At the heart of the project was the new commons space—a stunning representation of White Bear Lake’s sailing culture—designed to connect functionally and visually with three existing circular pods. In addition to the striking architectural features, the campus also included two new storm shelters to enhance safety and resilience. BKBM Engineers partnered closely with the architectural team to deliver creative, cost-conscious solutions that captured the design intent while addressing structural challenges.

Architectural Vision
Inspired by the community’s sailing heritage, the architect envisioned the commons area columns to symbolize sailboats docked and listing at varying angles. This required slanted columns that appeared non-uniform in their orientation, creating a dynamic and visually engaging effect. The space's triangular layout, nestled between three existing circular pods, further added to the design complexity, as the triangular corners merged organically into the existing curved structures without forming distinct points.

Structural Challenges & Innovative Solutions
Turning this bold architectural vision into reality required innovative structural engineering solutions to navigate design challenges, economic constraints, and functional requirements. BKBM Engineers developed creative strategies to address these challenges effectively:

  • Radial Grid Design: To maintain the appearance of sailboats listing at varying angles, BKBM established a radial grid system with workpoints anchored within the existing circular pods. By setting all columns to a uniform 7-degree slant, the desired visual effect of non-uniform orientation was successfully achieved without the need for custom angles on each column.

  • Radiused Firewall Integration: The connection between the new commons space and the existing buildings required a sophisticated solution for a 2-hour fire separation using radiused walls. Secondary slanted columns were introduced at tie-in points, cantilevering beams to seamlessly meet the existing structures while continuing the sailboat-inspired aesthetic.

  • Storm Shelter Design (Prioritizing Resilience): Two storm shelters were incorporated to meet safety standards and enhance the school’s emergency preparedness.

    • Shelter 1: A 16,000-square-foot, two-level shelter designed to retain earth on two sides.
    • Shelter 2: A 9,000-square-foot shelter located adjacent to a collapse hazard, requiring additional engineering considerations to mitigate risks.

These shelters demonstrate BKBM Engineers’ commitment to prioritizing safety while balancing complex site conditions.

  • Cost Optimization: While the slanted columns slightly increased steel costs, this design eliminated the need for extensive excavation and underpinning of existing foundations. This cost-effective engineering approach achieved budget neutrality while delivering the desired architectural results.

Seamless Construction in a Confined Space
The most significant construction challenge was the confined space between the three existing circular buildings, which demanded meticulous framing and maximum field flexibility. BKBM Engineers employed several strategies to ensure a smooth construction process:

  • Field-Adaptive Framing Solutions: Joist tails were intentionally fabricated longer for on-site trimming, providing field crews the flexibility to achieve precise fits with existing structures.
  • Dimensional "Fuses": Built-in dimensional tolerances were integrated into key structural components, accommodating minor field deviations while maintaining alignment and structural integrity.

Results
The construction of the White Bear Lake High School additions, including the commons area and storm shelters, was completed on time and without unexpected owner costs related to structural framing. The commons area now serves as a functional and inspiring centerpiece for the school while celebrating the community’s unique identity. The storm shelters provide essential safety for students and staff, enhancing the campus’s overall resilience.

Conclusion
The White Bear Lake High School additions project exemplifies the power of collaboration between architects and engineers. BKBM Engineers transformed the architect’s creative vision into a reality that balances aesthetic ambition with structural and economic practicality. For architects seeking partners who embrace innovation and adaptability, BKBM stands ready to bring your designs to life.

Contact Us
For more information about this project or to discuss how we can help bring your design visions to life, contact James Dorr, Structural Project Manager, at BKBM Engineers. You can reach him directly here.