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OCDE begins conference‑center modernization; Rancho Sonata schematic designs to be finalized this month
Summary
Renovation of OCDE’s conference center is underway with an expected June 2025 completion and upgraded AV; the Rancho Sonata project has a new architect, TBP Architecture, and schematic designs are due by the end of January to allow CEQA work to proceed.
The Orange County Department of Education staff provided an update on renovations and planning for two facilities projects on Jan. 8: modernization of the Kalmus conference center (Building D) and continued design work for the Rancho Sonata outdoor education site.
Contractor work and schedule for conference center
Project staff said contractor work on the conference center has begun and is expected to finish in June 2025. Planned changes include four large conference rooms with retractable walls that can combine into a single space for about 600 participants, three smaller meeting rooms, an upgraded lobby and reception area, an improved accessible restroom layout, upgraded audio‑visual systems, a shaded outdoor seating area and landscaping to screen the parking area.
Rancho Sonata: new architect, CEQA steps, timeline
Staff reported they have engaged a new architect, TBP Architecture, which has met with OCDE program staff and conducted site visits. The architect is meeting with regulatory agencies — the Division of the State Architect (DSA), California Geological Survey (CGS), Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) and county parks staff — and has begun finalizing schematic designs needed to complete environmental studies and a draft environmental impact report (CEQA). Staff said schematic designs are expected by the end of January; a more detailed cost estimate and timeline for design‑development, code review, DSA submittal, bidding and construction will follow.
Nut graf: The projects are intended to refresh aging facilities and improve OCDE’s capacity to host professional development and community uses; the board expressed support for designs that blend with the outdoor character of Rancho Sonata and noted fire‑safety considerations following recent local wildfires.
Community use and next steps
Board members asked about community access and design character; staff said the conference center remodel will reduce rental costs and consolidate many professional‑development events on‑site. For Rancho Sonata, staff highlighted plans for multi‑use pavilions, amphitheater space and hands‑on teaching stations designed to fit a natural, camp‑like aesthetic while meeting updated material and plant‑selection standards linked to fire safety.
Ending: Staff will return with schematic renderings and a project timeline after completion of the current design phase and CEQA studies; the board endorsed continued work and asked to review materials and cost estimates when available.
