New Mexico State University

Under the direction of the University Architect and the Office of Facilities Planning & Construction, New Mexico State University took steps to update its master plan in 2005. As the university’s vision became more clearly defined, three key elements emerged: Development of the Las Cruces City center, construction of a University Hotel, and creation of a new Arts Complex. The vision was for all three elements work together to revitalize the area surrounding the university, boost the local economy, meet the city’s and the university’s needs for meeting space, and provide an appropriate venue for cultural and performing arts programs.

The Arts Complex itself is a multi-million dollar project. Our engineers and designers worked closely with the architects and the university’s internal facilities & construction staff to make the space exceed expectations. It should be noted that the project must meet additional demands as imposed by the State’s Governor. Per the Governor’s mandate, the state-funded, new arts facility is required to deliver an energy performance standard of one-half the average energy consumption for that building type, as defined by the US Department of Energy.

The new space includes a theater, dressing rooms, art gallery, studios, and classrooms for dance, music, performing, visual, and even digital arts. The modern Arts Complex is a fitting addition to NMSU, which is rich in history and the designs of Southwestern architect Henry C. Trost.

Photo credit: © Anna Wesolowska/www.photographerhedman.com