Work

Modern building with large glass windows illuminated at dusk, reflecting in a calm body of water, under a dramatic, cloudy sky.

Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge

A ‘Bridge’ to the Natural World

The Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge in Albuquerque, NM, aims to preserve and restore 570 acres of riparian habitat located on a former dairy farm along the Rio Grande. As part of this effort to conserve urban green space and reconnect the community to the natural world, our team envisioned a new visitor center to house exhibit spaces, classrooms, and offices for the community partners involved in the conservation effort. The facility allows the public direct access to a vast network of nature trails and provides flexible interior and exterior space for a variety of public and private events, including school field trips. The transformative project is a role model for sustainable design strategies such as rainwater harvesting, renewable energy systems, dark sky compliance, and bird-friendly design.

Modern building with a flat roof and large windows, set in a desert landscape under a wide sky, with a concrete pathway leading to the entrance.
Modern building with large overhangs, glass walls, and wooden accents, situated under a clear sky. Sunlight shines from behind, casting shadows on the concrete pathway leading to the entrance.
Modern building with wooden exterior panels and large glass windows, set against a partly cloudy sky. A person walks past the entrance. Sparse vegetation is visible in front of the building.
A detailed map labeled “Valle de Oro NWR Master Plan” showing pathways, river, mountains, arroyos, irrigation features, and land access points, annotated with multiple reference points and landscape images.
A modern building with large glass doors and wooden walls, featuring metal roofing. A person walks by, and concrete benches are positioned in front of the entrance.
Several people sit and stand on tiered concrete steps beneath a large, corrugated metal canopy at an outdoor public space.
A spacious modern lobby with an intricate wooden ceiling and a mix of natural and artificial lighting. There are art pieces on the walls, seating with cushions in the corner, and a person walking by.
A modern indoor space with wooden ceiling panels and large windows overlooks an outdoor area with people standing and sitting. Black chairs and tables are arranged in the foreground.
Modern, angular building with rust-colored exterior, partially obscured by tall grass, set against a backdrop of a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Contemporary building with large glass windows and a modern metal roof. A rectangular water feature is in the foreground, reflecting the cloudy sky during sunset.
A modern building set against a dramatic dusk sky with scattered clouds. The structure features clean lines and substantial use of glass and steel, illuminated by interior lights.

Project Information

Location

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Collaborators

Formative Architecture, Architect of Record

Surroundings Studio Landscape Architects, Landscape Architecture

Biohabitats, Wetland Design

Ideum, Exhibit Design

Awards and Recognition

LEED Silver Certification

AIA Albuquerque, Honor Award

AIA Arizona, Honor Award

Contemporary Architecture in the Southwest, Jeff Harnar Award

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