South Valley Economic Development Center
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Project Information: 16,000 SF, Business Incubator
Completed: 2004
Awards: AIA NM Merit Award, 2005
Photography: Kirk Gittings
Project Description:
A vibrant, welcoming, and prominent design; this 2-story Business Incubator is a catalyst for new development in the area as well as a nexus between the traditional agricultural community and the emerging entrepreneurial innovation center. The heart of the 16,000 SF facility is a 3,500 SF commercial kitchen. There are 9,000 SF of tenant ‘client’ offices, shared work spaces, conference rooms, and multi-purpose exhibit and performance spaces. The building responds to the site and cultural context through its form and material selections. Galvanized corrugated metal wall panels allude to the past agricultural buildings in the valley. Bold colorful metal wall panels allude to the cultural heritage of the area. A sloping CMU wall ascends into the building, carrying client’s aspirations, hopes and dreams. Metal sunshades provide solar control at the windows. A courtyard is sheltered from prevailing southwestern winds by the building with a multi-purpose room adjoining it to create indoor-outdoor connections.
