How'd They Do That?... ichardson & Richardson recently completed The Lofts at Albuquerque High, a residential urban community situated on a newly renovated historical property. The "campus" consists of two three-story buildings that feature loft style apartments, and a new streetscape for the entire area, all designed by Dekker/Perich/Sabatini. |
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 Old Main, the first building, was completed in 1914. The building is one of the few structures left from that era, and one of the oldest schools in New Mexico. The soaring auditorium space in Old Main was the largest in the city for a number of years. Designed by Trost & Trost of El Paso, TX. Old Main had the newest in gas piping, hardwood floors and real slate blackboards and up to the minute scientific laboratories. The Administration building (nicknamed "the Classroom building") came next, followed by the Library and the Gymnasium. The Gym features a fallout shelter that is still stocked with cold war supplies. There's also a Manual Arts building and a courtyard in the center with a fountain. The school was used through 1976, was abandoned, and remained empty until 2001. Right in the heart of Downtown, this project was an integral part in Albuquerque's plan for the revitalization of that area. |
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The renovation was done with historical preservation in mind. All entries were restored to original condition, including hardware. The windows were removed and shipped to Chicago, where they were repaired and re-glazed by a restoration expert. Both buildings received all new plumbing, HVAC, fire, alarm, and electrical systems. Elevators and ramps were installed to meet ADA standards of today. The lofts were framed from the classrooms, and some include original blackboards. Lockers were re-installed in the halls to provide tenants an unusual way to store a few items. All floors were restored. One of the biggest challenges was constructing a three-story frame in the "shell" of the old auditorium for the new lofts there. The streetscape featured new landscaping, lighting, two fountains, and the restoration of the wishing-well style bulletin board in the courtyard. |
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The project was AGC's 2002 Best Building and 2002 Best Renovation Winner. Phase II, which will include the Gymnasium renovation, is scheduled for late this year. |
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