San Jacinto College Anderson-Ball Classroom Building

During schematic design, the college engaged two general contractors to compare costs between steel and mass timber. While estimates varied—18% more to 0.5% less—the analysis gave the college confidence to proceed with timber without compromising the budget.

The building includes a range of spaces with different structural needs. Accommodating classrooms, labs, and a two-story lobby required careful integration of structural systems and coordination across design teams.

Tying the new mass timber superstructure into an existing foundation layout introduced unknown conditions. Adapting to these on-site challenges required agile coordination and fast structural responses during construction.

Walter P Moore supported the owner’s evaluation process and developed multiple lateral system options. Brace frames were selected based on cost, reduced foundation impact, and layout flexibility.

Our team worked closely with the architect, general contractor, and sole-source timber provider to resolve connection details and minimize long-term maintenance. BIM coordination began early to catch construction conflicts and streamline erection.

We collaborated with the contractor to modify structural plans in real time as foundation issues emerged. A vibration monitoring system was also installed to track the long-term performance of the timber structure.

Timber elements are prominently featured throughout, including a monumental glulam stair, exposed floor panels, feature walls, and a suspended second-story walkway. These details elevate the user experience and showcase the material.

At 120,000 square feet, this is the largest instructional building in the U.S. constructed from mass timber. Its scale demanded a higher level of collaboration across disciplines—structural engineering, architecture, and construction—to realize the vision.

The college leveraged the building to lead mass timber adoption in the region, hosting two Gulf Coast Mass Timber Conferences and offering tours to promote awareness and share lessons learned.