Environmentally responsive small office: Administrative office and interpretive center for the Santa Fe National Forest in Las Vegas, New Mexico

abstract This project has been titled Environmentally Responsive to describe the underlying theme. The idea is to design with the forces already acting upon the site. This translates into designing the building to woric with the natural forces of the sun, the natural movement of air, etc. Spaces will conform to the actions taking place inside them rather than the actions conforming to the space. Since the site has already been changed the way this project will respond will be to bring back the original character of the site and blend with that. theory Passive Energy Efficiency This design will attempt to control the comfort level inside with passive means whenever possible. This will inherently produce an energy efficient building as the HVAC systems and electric lights will be needed less. Efficiency is attained by finding the source of problems and creating a simple solution. This requires the design to: be conceived with the site and the natural forces acting upon it, as well as laying out office space to facilitate the actions to occur in that space rather than proceed with existing preconceptions of the office. facility integrated office This building will create a workplace conducive to synergistic work while maintaining each individual's personal space, or "home base." The job fimctions of the people using this building are such that a constant ability for communication would be beneficial. scope of project This will be a small office building and interpretive center approximately 5,000 square feet. context Reclaiming the Site The context goal for this project is to return the site to its original character as well as using some of the green space re-introduced as an exhibit of what can be found in the Santa Fe National Forest. This green space will also function as a public meeting space.