Santa Fe (N.M.) Community College has broken ground on a 48,000-sf Health and Sciences Building that will replace several temporary portable buildings on the north side of the campus. Designed by Diamond and Schmitt Architects, Toronto, and Studio Southwest Architects, Albuquerque, the facility will include laboratories, classrooms, offices, and a dental clinic operated by Santa Fe's La Familia Medical Center, a 20-chair clinic that provides dental health services to families and individuals in need, while also serving as a clinical training site for SFCC dental technician students.
The design of the center reflects the character and landscape of the campus. Stucco and stone cladding defines the building mass, with strategically placed windows to take advantage of mountain views. Clerestory windows provide light into the rooms and hallways, while a series of steel-clad canopies and deep overhangs provide shade from the desert sun. The building is arranged around two courtyards of differing character that provide outdoor spaces for students to gather, study, eat, or take a break between classes. Completion: May 2010.
