CNM North Campus Renovations

North Campus renovations seek to transform an entire block of Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) north of Coal Ave. along Buena Vista Dr. This area serves as the administrative center for CNM, with some student support services. Redevelopment began with removal the 1970’s era East Building that shielded North Campus from its surrounding neighborhood. This removal left the 100-year-old, 2-story, LSA Building standing as the principal structure within the area. Originally designed as an elementary school, LSA Building is not on the historic registry but is cherished by CNM as such. Exterior renovations include full restoration of the building’s shell, complete with brick repair and new historically accurate windows and doors. Site development and landscaping were designed to enhance the pedestrian experience and restore LSA as a ‘building within the landscape’. Rework of the Central Parking Lot afforded an opportunity for it to act as a forecourt to LSA Building and install a new metal gateway structure like others on campus that reinforces the CNM brand.

Interior renovations to the LSA Building explore adaptive reuse styles that respect 1920’s era history and materiality but add juxtaposing elements of modernity. Building on this strategy, renovations reflect CNM’s culture and spirit for innovation. Existing natural assets like original wood floors, exposed brick, plaster & lath walls, large windows are showcased and strengthened with forward looking interventions of exposed steel, glass and wood. A full structural retrofit was required to maximize spatial openness, allowing for a large two-story lobby and gathering space that increases user engagement between floors and acts as a welcome center for non-student visitors. Other programmed spaces include executive offices, conference rooms, and flexible workspaces available to community partners.

Construction is well underway with completion scheduled for Fall 2025.

SIZE

11,000 GSF of renovations

SERVICES

Site master planning, programming, design, construction documents, construction administration, project management

HIGHLIGHTS

Administrative building renovation

Construction on active college campus

Extensive structural retrofit

Construction manager at risk delivery method