On the University of New Mexico’s Albuquerque campus, Mitchell Hall is an outstanding example of an existing building revitalized by renovation. A heavily used building, it was transformed from an institutional, rigidly programmed facility with little natural light, and poor ventilation to an emblem of the future for UNM.
Mitchell Hall, built in 1950 and designed by John Gaw Meem, is viewed as an integral component to the historic fabric of the UNM main campus. The Design Group was selected to perform all A/E services on the 54,000 square foot building, transforming it into a current, state of the art, LEED Silver Certified learning environment while respecting its historic character. The project included new site design upgrades, a new energy efficient building envelope, complete renovation of all interior spaces and replacement of all mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems. New commons and collaboration spaces within the existing building were created, offering new and alternative types of learning environments beyond the traditional classroom setting.
Project Mission Statement: This project reintroduced Mitchell Hall as a 21st Century educational facility that emphasizes student and faculty collaboration through improved technology, amenities, comfort and infrastructure operations which add a sense of ownership to the building.
Goals:
- Creating a healthy learning environment that engages students and faculty and inspires lifelong learning
- Encouraging identity and ownership of the facility
- Establishing as a 21st Century state of the art teaching facility
Square Feet: 54,000
Construction Cost: $5,025,000
