Nestled in the heart of Covington, Louisiana, St. Paul’s School was founded by The Christian Brothers in 1944. It is a private, Catholic, all boys boarding and day school and has steadily flourished in physical education as well as academics. St. Paul’s promotes physical fitness by developing each student’s coordination, endurance and strength through various team sports, using a regimen of weight training and aerobic activities.

DonahueFavret Contractors was contacted to renovate the original gym and support facilities, which were over a half century old. The design build project, totaling $1,700,000, was extensive including a complete renovation of the existing CMU/brick gymnasium, locker rooms, a new weight room, bathrooms, new electric bleachers, staff offices, concessions, lobby and additional storage. The interior had to be totally gutted and refinished. All new plumbing, HVAC, ceiling and electrical systems were installed along with a retrofit roof. The original maple gym floor was to be sanded and refinished. Included in the scope of work was the addition of a new half court practice gymnasium, a stained concrete plaza area and two concrete parking lots. The plaza, complete with a new drainage system, would tie the new gym lobby to the theater and academic building.

The gleaming results are now being enjoyed by both faculty and students alike, reflecting not only a professional job but the spirit of the school itself. The 25,000 square foot project was completed in 210 days.