It is notable as one of the city's best examples of Mediterranean Revival architecture and as the historical focal point of the surrounding neighborhood.

[1] The historic main building at Monte Vista was designed by local architect T. Charles Gaastra in the Mediterranean Revival style.

The plan is complex but carefully aligned with respect to the wedge-shaped corner of Monte Vista and Campus Boulevards.

The school has four classroom wings projecting from a central block punctuated by an arched front entrance, elaborately ornamented with molded terra cotta, and a square tower with a domed cupola.

Shallowly pitched tile roofs and tan stuccoed walls complete the Mediterranean appearance.