MEP Design for a Rock Climbing Gym Tenant Improvement in Corona, CA

S3DA provided Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) engineering design services for a 4,000-square-foot tenant improvement project converting an existing retail space into a modern indoor rock climbing gym in Corona, California. The renovation included complete demolition of existing building systems and the installation of new accessible restrooms, exposed HVAC distribution, and energy-efficient lighting designed to complement the facility’s unique climbing environment. 

S3DA’s Scope 

  Electrical power distribution design for lighting, outlets, HVAC equipment, and miscellaneous equipment 

  New exit signs, interior lighting, façade lighting, and lighting controls 

  HVAC load calculations, air distribution design, air balance, and mechanical schedules 

  Exposed round ductwork and diffusers coordinated with the new gym layout 

  New restroom exhaust fans 

  Plumbing design for new accessible restrooms, domestic water, sanitary, venting, and water heating 

  Condensate collection design for mechanical equipment 

  Plumbing isometric drawings, schedules, and details 

Key Challenges & Solutions 

One of the project’s primary engineering challenges was coordinating the placement of lighting fixtures, exposed ductwork, and HVAC diffusers within the limited spaces between the climbing wall structures. S3DA carefully evaluated the architectural reflected ceiling plan and integrated the MEP systems to maintain proper clearances while preserving climbing functionality and safety. 

Using a coordinated design approach, the engineering team optimized the routing of exposed round ductwork, diffuser placement, and suspended LED fixtures to maximize airflow performance, lighting coverage, and user experience without interfering with climbing routes or wall geometries. 

The Result 

The result is a fully coordinated MEP design package that supports a dynamic recreational environment while meeting accessibility, ventilation, lighting, and plumbing requirements. Through thoughtful system integration and engineering coordination, S3DA delivered permit-ready designs that help transform a former retail space into a safe, comfortable, and high-performing indoor climbing facility.