McLearen Road Academy in Herndon, VA is comprised of a three-story, 325,000-sf international Pre-K-12 school and two office buildings. IMEG provided structural engineering design services for the complex facility.

The Academy serves 1,230 students at full capacity and is organized and operated as an international school dedicated to culture, inclusiveness, and dual language programs. The facility includes an early childhood center and a co-educational school (each with their own entrance and play space), large multi-purpose halls, classrooms, laboratories, an 800-seat theater, three gymnasiums, a library and resource center, cafeteria and dual dining room, and administrative offices.

An eight-lane heated swimming pool, locker rooms, fitness facilities, and equipment room totaling 17,500-sf are located on the first floor. Two outdoor learning areas in the shape of small amphitheaters are available for informal classes. Two two-story, 15,000-sf office buildings; athletic fields; and a track are also located on the school’s 40-acre site.

IMEG engineers successfully addressed multiple structural challenges in designing this complex facility, including accommodating the complicated architectural precast layout particularly at the expansion joints.

A stiff floor system was required to prevent unwanted floor vibration on the 2nd floor where athletic events take place in a gymnasium. In addition, careful coordination with the theater consultant was required to avoid conflicts with lighting, rigging, and sound equipment.