We are revisiting an award-winning unbuilt project from 2013, on the merits of its confident, design-forward architectural response to a tactical training center. Our colleague Helen Pierce, AIA, led design of the project while on staff with us. We are proud to note she now directs design for LPA, San José. In relocating its Law Enforcement Training Center (LETC) from its main downtown campus to their satellite First Responders Academy, Alamo Colleges sought to exemplify the public service mission of the Academy. Operations management prioritized sustainability and long-term durability in materials and construction. Combining these practical and aspirational goals, we programmed and designed the Center with new classrooms, administrative space, and indoor and outdoor training areas.

The Artisan at Ruiz showcases our multi-dimensional understanding of what makes an urban core neighborhood tick – strong cultural roots, aspirational pride, and livability.

According to the National League of Cities (NLC, Washington D.C.), “A 15-minute city enables residents to access most daily amenities within a 15 to 20-minute walk, bike or other mode of transportation from any point in a city, town or village regardless of size.” Responding to the imperative for a 15-minute city, this regional adaptation of the traditional rowhouse typology transforms an industrial streetscape into a place for people.