Built in 1957, 120 Vassar Drive SE, located in Albuquerque’s University Heights neighborhood, was a vacant mid-century office building in need of an extreme makeover. The building was selected due to its strong mixed-use neighborhood location, potential for a meaningful sustainable design, adjacent alternate transportation options, energy efficiency, day lighting potentials, and flexible space.

The building has been transformed into a LEED Platinum Certified, 14,000 square foot, state of the art studio and conference center with the addition of a new entry and elevator core, new glazing, and green interiors throughout. Features include controlled natural light, LED general illumination lamps, new PV rooftop panels that supply over 30% of electrical energy needs, and cisterns that harvest roof water for irrigation.

The revitalization efforts have been embraced by the neighborhood association, which now conducts board meetings in the building’s main conference room.