The original building was designed by John Gaw Meem in 1939 in the classic “Spanish-Pueblo Revival” style and is a symbol of the civic and cultural community of Santa Fe. This historic renovation is a collaboration with Jaynes Corporation as a design/build project. Through research, site investigation, and innovation, our team developed solutions to renovate, rehabilitate, and modernize this amazing piece of history for modern use and retell the story of its historic relevance for future generations. Windows were replaced with wood replicas and matching steel casement replicas, and original tin lighting fixtures were cleaned, repaired, and rewired by a local tin artisan. Where required, new modern fixtures were chosen to enhance the intended experience.

The original building elements and historically significant interior spaces were restored to reinvigorate the environment and authentic craftsmanship of the original experience. All office areas were renovated and modernized. Accessibility of the building was adapted for ADA handicap with new ramps and an elevator was installed to provide accessibility between floors. A significant part of the scope included the demolition of an addition in the 70’s for office space that in-filled the original courtyard. This courtyard was renovated to the specifications of John Gaw Meem’s original design and every detail was provided to give back the gathering area as a public amenity as intended.

Client: Santa Fe County, Santa Fe, NM

Size: 30,000sf Historic Restoration

Awards: 2021 ENR Southwest Best Project (Government/Public Blg) – Santa Fe County Admin. Historic Restoration, 2021 CPRC Architectural Heritage Award – Santa Fe County Admin. Building, Restoration

Project design as Principal Architect at Studio Southwest Architects