El Paso, TX

EPISD Irvin High School

High School

Renovation/Addition

Entire Building

2024 Outstanding Project

Irvin High School Rockets soar to new heights with the completion of campus upgrades, designed by Dekker Perich Sabatini (DPS). A new campus design, commissioned by the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD), redefines the 63-year-old school. Collaboration with EPISD created a modern, future-ready learning environment aligned with their 2016 bond program. DPS’s approach was student-centric, catering to diverse learning styles and needs. Breakout areas, formal, and informal learning spaces foster communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and innovation.

Creating a dynamic and stimulating learning environment was a key element for the project. More than $38M in upgrades include a new main building with a library, special-education classrooms, academic classrooms, administrative offices, and a 300-seat theater. The holistic design unifies various facilities while providing safe, outdoor learning environments that are easy to access and seamlessly interact with indoor areas.

The incorporation of modern materials resulted in a fresh identity for the campus while recognizing the history and pride of multiple generations who have attended the school. The design supports the District’s transition to an academy-based educational model with four academies, a target population of 1600 students, and 21st century learning spaces that encourage project-based learning and forward thinking.

Architect

Dekker Perich Sabatini

108 S. Stanton St.
El Paso, TX 79901
dpsdesign.org
Matt McKim, AIA, Principal
915-613-0650

Design Team

  • C. Barry Taylor, Project Architect
  • Matt McKim, Principal – Project Manager
  • Sanjay S. Kadu, Principal – Design Leader
  • Kurtis Morton, Principal – Studio Leader

Owner/Client

El Paso Independent School District
El Paso, TX
Irene Ramirez, Executive Director of Facilities & Constructio

Key Stats

  • Grades Served: 9–12
  • Capacity of Students/Occupants: 1,600
  • Size of Site: 32.5 acres
  • Gross Area of Bldg./Space: 175,146 gsf
  • Space per Student: 110 sq. ft.
  • Cost per Student: $22,562
  • Square Foot Cost: $206
  • Project Cost: $36,100,000
  • Occupation Date: 3/1/2023

Award Issue

Spring 2024
— Outstanding Project

Photography

@Travis Lewis – Dekker Perich Sabatini