Santa Clara Tribal Administration Building

H+Mdg designed a new Tribal Administration Building for Santa Clara Pueblo to replace facilities that could no longer meet the growing department’s programmatic needs.

The Tribal Administration Building’s circular form draws inspiration from a traditional planting calendar and Santa Clara pottery designs, promoting the health, wellbeing, and productivity of its occupants. The design integrates a circular reception area with a metal facade, blending modern architecture with practical functionality, and is surrounded by native landscaping that reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility.

The project places a strong emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency. The design incorporates full building electrification to reduce carbon footprint, electric vehicle charging stations for the tribal fleet, and a high-performance building envelope to enhance thermal efficiency and occupant comfort. A Life Cycle Cost Analysis demonstrated long-term benefits in energy savings, environmental impact reduction, and occupant wellbeing, showcasing the economic and environmental viability of sustainable design in New Mexico.