Twin Rivers Charter School
A new school built for a better student experience relies on Butler Manufacturing for efficiency, premium engineering and sustainable design.
Project
Overview
The Twin Rivers Charter School campus in Yuba City, Calif., stands as a model for how precision-engineered steel systems can shape environments that inspire learning, optimize performance and endure for generations. Designed and constructed with Butler® building systems, the campus reflects the school’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and long-term value.
Founded in 2004, Twin Rivers Charter School quickly became known for its family-focused environment and commitment to small class sizes. Enrollment growth soon exceeded the capacity of its original facility, prompting founders Axel and Inge Karlshoej to envision a new, purpose-built campus. Supported by the Erik Karlshoej Educational Foundation, their goal was clear: create an educational center that embodies excellence in design, sustainability and construction.
To bring their vision to life, the Karlshoejs selected Hilbers Inc., a Butler Builder® based in Yuba City, to lead the project. In partnership with Swift Lee Office, an architectural firm recognized for its thoughtful and sustainable school designs, Hilbers delivered a two-building campus that fulfills both form and function — and demonstrates how performance-driven building systems accelerate delivery without compromise.
Construction began in December 2014 with an ambitious goal: open the middle-school building by the following August. Butler® systems provided the efficiency and constructability needed to meet that deadline.
It would not have been possible to meet such a tight schedule with conventional construction methods. Butler systems allowed us to move quickly and efficiently from design through completion.
With its clearspan modular framing, the Butler structural system eliminates interior columns to create expansive, flexible spaces ideal for classrooms, common areas and a full gymnasium. Engineered for seismic resilience and long-term durability, the structure resists mold, termites and rot — critical in the West Coast climate.
Meanwhile, the MR-24® standing-seam roof provides unmatched weathertightness and proven longevity, with 13 inches of insulation delivering an R-30 energy rating and ensuring thermal efficiency and extended service life.
Along with stability, the precision-engineered versatility of Butler systems enabled architectural features that distinguish the Twin Rivers campus, including a hydraulic door behind the gymnasium stage that opens to an outdoor amphitheater for performances and community events.
Natural light and energy efficiency were central to the project’s goals. The daylighting system from Butler integrates seamlessly into the MR-24 roof, using prismatic domes to diffuse sunlight evenly and reduce energy use. The result is a bright, healthy learning environment that minimizes operating costs while supporting student well-being.
Inside, Butler systems provided the flexibility to integrate specialized acoustic and lighting solutions that enhance both comfort and performance. Acoustical ceiling baffles and wall panels reduce sound transmission in classrooms and the gymnasium, and energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures form sculptural patterns that complement the building’s modern design.
“In addition to more classroom space, we now have a gymnasium, media center and outdoor learning areas that create a dynamic and enduring environment for students,” said Axel Karlshoej, head of Twin Rivers Charter School.
Through the expertise of Hilbers Inc. and the proven performance of Butler building systems, Twin Rivers Charter School achieved its vision of an educational campus that is architecturally distinctive, operationally efficient and built to last.
