Submitted by SMPC Architects The first building for CNM’s new Rio Rancho’s campus provides 66,000 sq ft of educational space to this remote location. In fact, new roads and utilities had to be added to reach this building where none existed before. The project is a microcosm of the themes of the future campus, where buildings will shelter the exterior spaces from wind and sun. Photo Patrick Coulie Photography In addition to classrooms, specialized nursing simulation labs allow students to receive real-time training. Other features include a library, lounges, computer labs and a tutorial area. The permanence of masonry is
Submitted by Straub Construction, Helix Electric and Line and Space LLC Subtly arising from the desert against the dramatic Red Rocks Conservation Area, the undulating curves of the center give primacy to the Las Vegas area’s stunning backdrop of crimson-hued mountains. Comprised of five single-story buildings totaling 16,600 sq ft, the center is the informational focal point of the conservation area and serves as a space for both geologists and the public to observe nature and wildlife. Photo:Line And Space Photo: Stillman LEED certification was embraced as a key feature of the center’s redevelopment, given the surrounding natural beauty, and
Submitted by Archer Western Contractors This project was designed as a way to restore the region’s natural wetlands and further treat discharge from a nearby treatment plant. It eliminates the need for expensive supplemental treatment, saving taxpayers up to $300 million. Photo:Todd Photography 480 acres of emergent wetlands were constructed, plus public areas like multi-use trails, picnic areas and an environmental education visitor center. As the largest man-made wetlands in the world, this project offers a living research platform for research on natural water treatment. 100,000 aquatic plants and over 700 riparian trees and shrubs were planted to support fish
Submitted by BRYCON Construction This $7-million project in Santa Fe built a three-story, 29,000-sq-ft modern classroom building in place of the 1920’s era Conner Hall dormitory building, while preserving the hall’s Pueblo Revival fa�ade. To do so, crews had to literally cut the old building in half. Extreme settling had occurred, so steel supports had to be added to the fa�ade after the partial demolition, to prevent the remaining structure from toppling. Photo James Shive The new LEED silver addition features a two-story lobby with a dramatic glass wall, allowing students to see and speak with each other through sign
Submitted by Albuquerque Public Schools; Facilities Design + Construction Located in downtown Albuquerque, this historic school was first constructed in 1937. After this $11.4-million renovation, it now has the capacity for 316 K through 5th graders in 15 classrooms. The former cafeteria building, erected in 1965, was reconfigured as the new media center and computer lab. The new cafeteria/gymnasium can hold the entire school population for assemblies. Photo By Kirk Gittings With no enrollment boundaries, this dual-language immersion school serves as both a neighborhood and magnet school, to which students can commute with their parents who are working downtown. Original
Submitted by Panattoni Construction, Inc. Nestled at the base of a ski slope at Mount Rose Ski Park near Reno, this building’s unique location above the Washoe Valley offers breathtaking views of the area’s mountains and lake. The modern steel and glass building captures the dynamic and rugged natural beauty found at Tahoe’s highest base. It houses a 150-seat restaurant and bar underneath dramatic ceilings, steel beams and a striking glass fa�ade designed to withstand winds in excess of 100 mph. An outdoor deck wraps around the exterior of the bar and hugs the building’s curved form. At an elevation
Submitted by PK Electrical, Inc. Henderson’s tight-diamond interchange provides access for residential and retail areas, alleviating congestion in two adjacent areas. Almost 47,000 vehicles are expected to use the interchange daily. The project also improves local roadways, moving traffic more efficiently through one of the city’s most popular shopping and business destinations. Replacement and relining of crucial sewer and water reclamation pipelines improved infrastructure while anticipating future needs. Design and construction of large concrete caps protected water pipelines with up to 30 ft of fill. The public was involved in aesthetic choices, selecting designs and colors, and the attractive soundwalls
Submitted by Desert Star Construction Built in 1934 as a school for girls and later transformed into a restaurant and lodge, El Chorro has a long history as an Arizona landmark and celebrity haunt dating back to Clark Gable and Milton Berle. Unfortunately, a year ago, this 11-acre property was suffering from significant wear and faced an uncertain future. New ownership set out to protect its character and history while making it more sustainable – and more relevant. Photo:Mark Boisclair The 150-seat restaurant now has a stunning indoor/outdoor bar, expanded patio, outdoor fireplace nooks and a modernized event facility. A
The Cibolo Green Elementary School is one of the first “green” schools in the North East Independent School District and the greater San Antonio area. Photo: Satterfield & Pontikes Related Links: Best of 2010 Awards The energy-efficient school was built to meet LEED-silver standards, which include improved air-quality systems, the use of recycled and nontoxic building materials and energy-saving systems. The upbeat environment boasts nine different wall colors, flooring with multicolored patterns, and natural light. The general contractor, Satterfield & Pontikes, built many unusual features, including learning centers with windows into mechanical rooms. In-wall windows allow students to see elements
Submitted by Gerald A. Martin, Ltd Part of Albuquerque’s downtown redevelopment, these $1.7-million townhomes help increase demand for future commercial and retail sites by helping to create a more vibrant and livable community. Striking colors and staggered building heights create individual identities for each section of the LEED gold facility, avoiding the traditional uniformity of townhome construction. Residents have convenient access to public transportation, culture and nightlife. Private rooftop gardens reduce the heat island effect and provide a lush outdoor setting for residents and visitors. A sense of privacy is created by the stand-alone construction of the townhomes, which include
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