Soleil West designed the remodel of the New Mexico Highlands University Lora Shields Science Building. The remodel of the New Mexico Highlands University Lora Shields Science Building was finished in June of 2011. With its completion, the 20,200 square foot remodel re-establishes a focal point on the university campus.

The remodel was designed to attain LEED® Gold certification, and offical USGBC certification is currently pending.

(USGBC and the related logo are trademarks owned by the U.S. Green Building Council and are used by permission.)

A variety of green practices were implemented, including water catchment systems, photovoltaic energy systems, efficient glazing, recycled and regional materials & finishes, solar shading devices, water efficient plumbing fixture replacement, heating and cooling upgrades, and low water use landscape vegetation.

The architect arranged the interior spaces to capture daylight, even though the space did not have an exterior wall.  Consequently, faculty offices and workspaces are awash in natural light. 

With the enthusiastic support of faculty, epoxy countertops and science tables were reused throughout the facility.

When the doors opened this summer, he saw the students and faculty enthusiastically put the new classrooms and labs to use.  The building now has 24 faculty and graduate level offices, 10 laboratory spaces (including specialized labs for anthropology, physical science, geology, and paleomagnetism), multiple classrooms and a lecture room.

In November of 2011, the Lora Shields Building was selected as an Outstanding Design in the Renovation/Modernization Category of the American School & University Architectural Portfolio.

NMHU Lora Shields Science Building- Exterior Before Renovation

NMHU Lora Shields Science Building- Renovated Exterior