Photo credit: BRW
Photo credit: BRW
Completed with Purpose: Renovation of Klein ISD Hildebrandt Intermediate School
Architect: BRW Architects
Project Name: Klein ISD Hildebrandt Intermediate School Renovations
Location: 22800 Hildebrandt Rd., Klein, TX 77389
Size: 209,000 SF
Year of Completion: 2024
Photo credit: BRW
Halford Busby was honored to serve as the construction cost consultant for the recently completed renovation of Hildebrandt Intermediate School in Klein ISD.
Located at 22800 Hildebrandt Road in Spring, Texas, this comprehensive 209,000-square-foot transformation was completed in 2024 and stands as a model of thoughtful school modernization, supporting 21st-century learning, safety, and sustainability. Led by BRW Architects, the project revitalized every corner of the school by updating classrooms, fine arts and athletic facilities, upgraded mechanical and electrical systems, stormwater systems and improved site amenities—all designed to support student success and community pride.
From Legacy to Innovation
Originally constructed decades ago, Hildebrandt Intermediate had become outdated in both infrastructure and layout. In partnership with BRW Architects, Klein ISD redesigned classrooms for flexibility and collaboration, with new lighting, finishes and integrated technology. Polished concrete floors and upgraded casework offered durability and aesthetic appeal, while expanding common areas like learning commons and labs fostered project-based learning.
This renovation also elevated the fine arts wing, outfitted with improved sound isolation, new lighting and performance ready-finishes. The athletic spaces received upgraded flooring and MEP systems, offering a safe and more functional environment for physical education and school sports. Across the board, improved lighting, ventilation and accessibility standards were met or exceeded.
Enhancements Beneath the Surface
Much of the project’s success stemmed from the invisible but crucial upgrades to its civil, mechanical and structural systems. Outdated HVAC units, ductwork and plumbing were removed and replaced with energy-efficient models. Two large cooling towers were decommissioned and upgraded, along with thousands of linear feet of hydronic and duct systems. The backbone of the electrical systems was modernized as well, with new digital panels and updated power distribution to accommodate technology-driven classrooms.
Beneath the building, the civil infrastructure saw sweeping improvements. A new drainage system, compliant with Harris County Flood Control requirements, was installed along with two detention ponds – approximately 21,000 square feet and 18,230 square feet – to better manage storm water and improve resiliency. Aging sanitary lines and water mains were replaced, while fire lane layouts and ADA-accessible routes were reconfigured for both safety and compliance. The structural modifications included reinforcing masonry walls, adding new cold-formed metal framing, and adjusting floor slabs to support the redesigned interior layouts.
Thoughtful Site Design and Landscape Preservation
The site improvements extended beyond the function into aesthetics and safety. New drop-off lanes, parking areas and curbside pickup stalls were added to reduce congestion. Paving material and ADA-compliant paths were upgraded for durability but also visual harmony with the surrounding campus. Site lighting and signage were modernized to enhance visibility and navigation, especially during early mornings and evenings school hours.
Special care was taken to preserve the site’s existing legacy trees, including two named memorial trees, which were protected during construction with fencing and specialized root zone treatment.
Smart, Secure and Connected
Technology upgrades were a core component of the renovation. The school’s digital infrastructure was overhauled to meet current and future demands. A new main distribution frame and several intermediate distribution frames were installed, supporting high speed data distribution throughout the building.
Each classroom was equipped with ceiling-mounted wireless access points, structured cabling and AV-ready teaching walls. Surveillance systems, access control points, intrusion, detection systems and intercom networks were fully integrated across the building to enhance campus security. These improvements ensured Hildebrandt Intermediate was not only connected but also safer and more adaptable for a variety of educational uses.
The completion of Hildebrandt Intermediate School’s renovation in 2024 marked not just the end of a construction project, but the beginning of a new era for thousands of students and families. The redesigned campus now embodies the values of Klein ISD: academic excellence, community stewardship and forward-thinking design. Halford Busby is proud to have supported the creation of a lasting, future-ready learning environment—and a true investment in the next generation.
Est. Cost: $35.2M
Halford Busby has worked on over 200 K-12 education projects for more than 30 Independent School Districts within the state of Texas. You can read more about the k-12 entities that we’ve worked with online.
Learn more about this project at BRW Architects’ website.
References
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