The leadership at RB+B Architects is pleased to announce that Derek Young, AIA, LEED AP has been promoted to Principal in the firm. Derek joins the existing Principals Rebecca Spears, David Kress, and Matt Arabasz in this role.

Derek has been with RB+B for 25 years and has served as Senior Project Manager for clients of all types, including two of the firm’s LEED Platinum Certified projects: Casey Middle School in Boulder and the Army National Guard’s Readiness Center in Windsor, CO. Derek has always excelled at managing multiple, complex projects, successfully navigating the details while not allowing the project to get lost in them. He is personable and able to communicate effectively with clients, contractors and consultant team members alike, and he enjoys the personal and relational aspects of his work.

“I have always admired Derek’s ability to think several steps ahead. He quickly grasps the future implications of current decision-making, asks the questions that others don’t think to ask, and has the imagination to see how what is happening in the present is likely to play out in the future,” notes Principal Matt Arabasz. “His vision instills confidence in the Teams that he leads.”

As a firm, RB+B has always been intentional about developing a leadership team with balanced strengths and roles to manage the firm. “Derek has been a great addition to RB+B,” says David Kress, RB+B Principal. “He has developed longstanding relationships with many of our clients, resulting from his easy personality and project management style.  His mentoring of our younger staff has helped the quality of our work and service to excel. We look forward to seeing him expand into a deeper management capacity.”

Inside the office, Derek champions the delicate role of coordinating RB+B staffing commitments with existing and proposed workload, as well as supporting development of proposed project teams. “Derek is a strong mentor and provides leadership in managing a talented team of staff members, appropriately assigning them to projects and encouraging their growth and professional fulfillment,” notes Principal Rebecca Spears.

Derek’s past work has supported school districts and community institutions throughout Northern Colorado and Nebraska. Derek was Senior Project Manager on six projects from Eaton School District’s 2019 bond campaign which were completed in 2021-2022, and served in a similar role for Elwell Elementary School and Milliken Elementary School (Weld 5 Schools), completed in 2022.

Other notable projects include multiple years of bond work for Platte Valley Schools (Kersey), several projects with Weld County School District 6, a transformation to Gering High School (Gering, NE), dozens of projects for Poudre School District (Fort Collins) and Boulder Valley School District (Boulder), current work with St. Vrain Valley School District (Longmont), and many commercial/community projects that have positively impacted the Fort Collins community.

Derek is also heavily involved in the RB+B Project Management and Mentoring Task Force. He enjoys mentoring and sharing his knowledge with younger staff and supporting the next generation of RB+B’s project leadership. Derek was part of the Leadership Fort Collins Class of 2015-16 through the Fort Collins Chamber of Commerce, and is currently an Associate Member of the Colorado Association of School Board Officials (CASBO) and a Member of the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE).

Derek earned his Bachelor of Architecture in 1996 from Philadelphia College of Textiles and Sciences (now Thomas Jefferson University) and was first promoted into a leadership position of Senior Associate in 2015.

Personally, Derek is a “former” Foster Parent, who enjoys spending much of his free time with his wife and two adopted children. Outside the office, he enjoys ice hockey, camping, hiking, and watching his kids’ sports.

RB+B and Northern Water celebrate the LEED Siver Certification of Northern Water’s Building F. The 3-story building, located on the Berthoud, CO Campus, includes 25,000 SF of administrative areas, including single- and multi-occupant office space, conference space, a training room, and support areas.

Northern Water—the entity responsible for delivering water to Northeastern Colorado for agricultural, municipal, domestic and industrial uses—focuses on water conservation, water quality, environmental stewardship, and regional water supply planning. With more growth on the front range and increased responsibilities of Northern Water, they have continued to experience employee growth and increased equipment, as well as increased need for more office and storage buildings to accommodate them.

The site design included an outdoor water use reduction of 50%, inclusion of open space, protection of sensitive land, and light pollution reduction strategies. Inside, water use is further reduced by 35%. Energy and Atmosphere credits included enhanced commissioning, and energy performance optimization, as well as 10% of building energy derived from renewable energy. Daylighting, quality views, low-emitting materials, indoor air quality, and thermal comfort were all prioritized.

Five of the six available Innovation credits were achieved, including those for green building education and biophilic design. Seventy-five percent of construction waste was also diverted during the project.

All buildings on the campus have been designed with similar agrarian building forms and materials to mimic the facility’s rural setting and to create a unified campus feel. Care was taken to design efficient vehicular and pedestrian connections from building to building and demonstration gardens were incorporated throughout the landscape to create a park-like feel throughout.

We are pleased to share that Erika Ashauer, ALEP, EDAC, has obtained the Evidence-based Design Accreditation & Certification (EDAC) through The Center for Health Design.

For someone working at the intersection of neuroscience, human experience, and the built environment, the EDAC credential provides a framework for Erika to continue applying research systematically and rigorously within our design process. The credential process has deepened her ability to bring research-backed insights into project work, especially in learning environments.

The credential also helps support the holistic human-experience lens that Erika brings to projects within a structure that ties those efforts directly to design outcomes, reinforcing her commitment to help center designs on the needs of those most affected by our work.

EDAC also supports RB+B’s growing focus on neuroinclusive, trauma-informed, and restorative learning environments—places where small design choices can have profound effects on how spaces are experienced.

“I look forward to continuing to integrate these evidence-based principles into our projects and to becoming an even stronger translator between research, intent, and design strategy,” notes Erika.

For more information on how RB+B is integrating brain-based research into our educational design practice, send us a note.

*Note: this position is for an architectural professional. A degree in Architecture is required.*

We’re Hiring!

Are you an Emerging Architectural Professional on the path to licensure with 1-3 years of experience? Are you looking to join a firm that combines a solid history with cutting edge design, innovation and sustainability? 

With an emphasis on high-performance design, RB+B Architects designs spaces that are vibrant, sustainable, and comfortable for those who inhabit them. Our collaborative design process engages each client personally, centers on the discovery of creative solutions, and results in Design Confidence^®. Our projects range from craft breweries to K-12 schools and have received recognition at the local, state and national levels for their creativity and positive impact on communities.

RB+B’s staff size has remained around 25+ for about a decade, which is large enough to take on complex, high-profile projects yet small enough that each member of the design team works closely with one another. We have a relaxed but active culture that emphasizes a work hard/play hard mentality. During the day we have in-office collaborative charrettes, Friday design chats, and engaging discussions to facilitate continuing education. But when the workday is over, our team loves climbing fourteeners, skiing, biking, running road races and enjoying the Fort Collins craft beer scene together.

What makes us unique? Our staff is made of a great group of people who genuinely like and respect each other, both during the workday and after hours. We value integrity, quality, and relationships, and extend that same culture to our projects and our clients.

We expect that you are positive, detail-oriented, confident and motivated with a passion for implementing creative and innovative design solutions.  You are able to effectively communicate and openly collaborate, and will express time management skills necessary to meet project deadlines.

How to Apply:

If you enjoy working with dynamic, talented team members who care about sustainability and serving as a positive influence in our communities through Architecture, send your resume and portfolio to ahoward @ rbbarchitects.com by June 1, 2025. Tell us why you think you’d be a great fit! We’d love to consider you for our team.

Requirements:

• Architectural degree required (BS or MS)
• Proficient in REVIT
• 1-3 years’ experience
• Pursuing an Architectural license
• Team player
• Someone who likes to collaborate and have fun!

Benefits:

• Benefits include health insurance, 401K, life insurance, paid vacation and paid sick leave.

Salary Range:

• $57,000-$62,000 Annually

RB+B Architects, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and provides competitive salaries, excellent benefits and a culture that promotes work/life balance. For more information visit www.rbbarchitects.com.

RB+B is pleased to announce that one of the firm’s latest projects with Eaton School District—the conversion of Eaton High School into the new Eaton Middle School—has been awarded a Summit Design Award by the A4LE Rocky Mountain Chapter, awarded for excellence in the design of a learning environment through creative renovation and addition.

About the Project

In 2017, Eaton School District began a multi-step process to (1) design a new high school, (2) renovate their existing high school into a new middle school, (3) renovate their existing middle school into a new elementary school, (4) design a new, districtwide transportation facility, and (5) renovated two other elementary schools. The newly reimagined Eaton Middle School accommodates 675 students in a generous 143,000 square feet implemented through a balance of creative renovation and purposeful addition. The facility delivers a reimagined learning environment while incorporating the existing middle school’s identity into its new home. The project was built across several phases and was completed in 2022 for $40.4 Million. The CMGC for the project was FCI Constructors.

EMS’s careful site re-organization makes student safety the number one priority. Bus and car traffic are separated, with a dedicated parent drop-off loop to the south and the bus drop-off loop to the north. Improved sidewalk connections allow for students to walk to school from surrounding neighborhoods.

The placement of the new addition creates a courtyard connecting building vintages and grade levels. The west side of the courtyard provides outdoor learning spaces for the new Media Center, while the east side features a performance platform.

One major issue with the existing building was a lack of efficient circulation. Only one main hallway stretched the length of the building, causing major congestion and long walks during passing periods for the majority of students. Adding a new main hallway adjacent to the gym not only connected directly to the new classroom addition, but also opened up a new option for students to navigate through the building.

The gymnasium’s existing glulam beams (once exterior to the building) were restored as an interior feature within the hallway/commons. Spaces between glulam supports were reimagined as small group study areas with a direct connection to the media center.

The existing commons—which was undersized for the student population—was redesigned to provide more space for students as a vibrant gathering space.  

New classrooms, a unified arts wing, flex space, CTE space, improved athletics facilities, and abundant daylighting were also integrated into the new EMS, while the existing theater was also restored.

Jury Comments

The jury commented on how, “The design team successfully tackled a major challenge with the project’s phased approach, managing many moving parts that made it exceptionally difficult.” It was also noted that, “The design highlighted the building’s polishable features and transformed them into standout elements, gems,” while another juror identified a, “nice utilization of connection points.”

Credits:

Awards ceremony photography by the Unfound Door. 

Project photography by Time Frame Images.

RB+B and the Northern Water community celebrated a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony last week at the organization’s newly expanded West Slope Headquarters Campus. Northern Water—the entity responsible for delivering water to Northeastern Colorado for agricultural, municipal, domestic and industrial uses—focuses on water conservation, water quality, environmental stewardship, and regional water supply planning. With more growth on the front range and increased responsibilities of Northern Water, they have continued to experience employee growth and increased equipment, as well as increased need for more office and storage buildings to accommodate them.

The most recently completed phases of the expansion to LEED Silver pending Building A include extensively renovated existing office space, reconfiguration and expansion of the board room, and a new secure lobby and a three-story office wing. A covered outdoor meeting area with restrooms was added to assist with educational programs and internal conference needs. Illustrating NW’s mission to encourage responsible water usage, the project will be one of the first in Colorado to achieve SITES certification. 

RB+B’s master plan for the Northern Water expansion called for approximately doubling the building square footage on this site over several phases and updating their security and functional operations with a new System Control Center. New site amenities include increased parking for employees, additional parking for guests, and a new demonstration garden and pavilion.

Previous phases of this multi-phase project included the addition of three new buildings and their associated site work, including a three-story LEED Silver Operations Building, a long-term storage building and fleet vehicle storage building with a small conference room and locker room wing.

All buildings were designed with similar agrarian building forms and materials for a unified feel in this rural setting. Care was taken to design efficient vehicular and pedestrian connections from building to building and demonstration gardens were incorporated throughout the landscape to create a park-like feel throughout.

(Images courtesy of Northern Water)

This article originally appeared on the CSI Resources blog, in August 2024.

Please provide an overview of your career, and why you chose to work in this industry.
I have wanted to be an architect as long as I can remember – except for a brief distraction with being a firewoman when I was 3 – so getting my architectural license in 2010 was a dream fulfilled. I love the problem-solving aspects of design, and bringing complex needs and requirements together in a coherent, functional manner. I work for a 26-person firm specializing in high-performance PK-12 schools. We love creating spaces that stimulate learning and wonder. For several years we had been contracting out the specifications to an independent consultant. When that individual retired, we were a bit adrift in trying to find someone that innately understood our systems, process, and work. I volunteered to become the office spec writer for three reasons:

• To bring the process in-house to help with schedules, project development, and consistent office standards.
• To be a mentor to younger staff as they selected products and systems for their projects (and sometimes to be just a shoulder to cry on).
• To provide quality control to all the projects moving through the office for better consistency and a higher level of execution.

What prompted you to earn your CCS?

Since I had been in the industry for almost 20 years, I wasn’t sure at first if I should pursue this credential. As I transitioned from being a project manager in the firm to the specifications writer, however, I felt it was important to signal my change in responsibility. I wanted to make sure I was well informed of the full spectrum of specification writing standards, and I wanted the credential as a marketing tool for writing technical or educational specifications for school districts.

How did you study/prepare for the CCS exam?

Studying for an exam was startling – I realized it had been a long time since I had done that, and those skills get rusty! I’m a kinetic learner, so I learn best by physically writing down information as I go. Something about the hand moving on paper organizes my thoughts – typing doesn’t work the same way!

I specifically reviewed the AIA and EJDC documents, MasterFormat^® and UniFormat, SectionFormat and PageFormat, and the Construction Specifications Practice Guide and Workbook. Since I had not taken the CDT (Construction Documents Technology) Exam, I used the project delivery flash cards to review that content.

When I’m studying for an exam like this, I’m always interested in what the industry believes is important for me to know, versus what I have learned on my own being in the industry. Since I write specifically for my architecture firm, my work deals with very specific types of projects and specific scales. It is eye opening to see what other specifiers are doing, and the complex problems they are solving with their work.

What about the exam process stands out for you?

CSI has so many documents and resources – at times it felt overwhelming! But now I know about them, and I can reference them when I need to. The blogs and message boards are invaluable, and everyone is so generous with their expertise.

Were there any surprising, or unexpected methods or preparation that helped you achieve success?

I try to connect what I’m learning with what I’ve experienced. Long lists of information are never going to stick with me, but an instance where I’ve been on a job site and X product wasn’t compatible with Y or a contractor didn’t perform their responsibility correctly because I didn’t know what was in the project specification will always stick with me. When I’m able to make those, “Aha!” connections with my study materials, it really helps.

How did your professional and personal community support you?

I took the test mid-December, so with the holidays, everything seemed like a blur! My kids were the most sympathetic – they could relate to the feeling of a big exam!

How do you feel this will impact your future in the industry and inform the work you do?

I enjoyed gaining a new skill: something that benefits me, my firm, and our profession. Researching products, installation methods, and standards is engaging, and I value being a resource to the project managers and team members in our office. It has been most meaningful for me to tie writing specifications to the quality control process, so I am redlining drawings for constructability, office standards, and coordination as I am writing the specification.

How has CCS certification informed how you approach new projects, especially when CCS writing, interpreting, and managing construction documents?

The greatest benefit for me has been better understanding contracts. The earliest advice I received from a long-time spec writer was to ‘read and understand the AIA contracts’. At the time, I didn’t fully appreciate his wisdom. As I have gained experience in the field, however, I’ve come to understand the value in knowing how a project is being delivered, maintaining clear lines of responsibility, and encouraging the project team to operate by those guidelines to minimize conflict and ambiguity. Interestingly, it is often the Ownership team that understands the process the least, and part of my role has been educating people on how the process works.

The Principals at RB+B Architects are saddened to share news of the recent passing of William (Bill) Brenner, Past Principal and namesake of the first “B” in “RB+B” Architects.

Brenner grew up in Chicago, Illinois, the oldest of 3 brothers born to William O. Brenner, Sr. and Evelyn Schroeder Brenner. He served in the Army from 1951 to 1953, as a Second Lieutenant in the tank corps, stationed in Texas. Upon discharge from the Army he entered the University of Colorado, Boulder receiving his Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering and Bachelor of Architecture. His enthusiasm for bowling led to a position on the CU bowling team, and he won many trophies. Bill was also active in CU’s Wesley Foundation Methodist group, where he met his wife Lucy. They were married in Boulder in June of 1955.

Brenner moved to Fort Collins in 1959, after graduating from CU, to work with William B. Robb, Architect and became a partner of the firm in 1971, creating Robb and Brenner, Architects and Planners. With the addition of George Brelig, the firm became Robb, Brenner and Brelig in the mid-80s and ultimately RB+B Architects–the firm’s name today.

Some of Brenner’s most recognized building designs include St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (described as “one of the loveliest examples of contemporary church construction in this country or in Europe” by Dr. Thomas P.F. Hoving of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City), the First United Methodist Church, Rocky Mountain High School Addition and Remodel, Scotch Pines Shopping Center and Apartments, Stuart Professional Park, and Indian Hills Condominiums, among others. Bill summed up his architectural philosophy by saying, “Architecture at its very best lifts our spirits. It’s an investment earning dividends in increased usefulness, pleasure, and economy.”

Brenner was a lifelong member of the Ft. Collins Lions Club and he and his wife, Lucy, were supporters and devoted attendees of the Ft. Collins Symphony since the early 60s. Bill served as president of both organizations. 

In his spare time, Bill was an avid sketcher and painter. Lucy remarked how, with a drawing pencil in hand, he had an intuitive ability to capture the essence and natural beauty of landscapes, people and animals. He also loved hiking and photography, especially when he could convince Lucy to go with him on his excursions. He enjoyed bowling and golfing with friends, and he and Lucy were members of a book group of good friends (the MOTH book group – or “Mostly Over the Hill”) for nearly 50 years. Bill loved challenging his mind, and in addition to reading, enjoyed playing chess – and teaching chess to young neighbors. Many dogs graced the Brenner household and morning dog walks were routine no matter the weather.

Bill was known for his infectious smile, his kind and gentle demeanor, and his one-liners and quick wit. His youthful appearance often inspired people to ask how he kept himself in such good shape and his response was always, with a twinkle in his eye, “just good, clean living!” Bill was always one to lend a hand when someone needed it, and he found joy in everything. He was naturally curious and enjoyed conversations with anyone, from close friends and family to someone he had just met. Bill truly embraced life and all it had to offer.

If you had the pleasure of meeting Bill, you know he was a kind, wonderful man who brought a smile to all with whom he interacted. Bill will be deeply missed.

*Some content repeated from Bill’s obituary, Vessey Funeral Service

It is with great honor that we announce the design of Elwell Elementary School (Weld 5 Schools, Johnstown, CO) was recognized with the Peak Design Award at the Association for Learning Environments’ (A4LE) Rocky Mountain Chapter Design Awards last week. The Peak Design Award recognizes outstanding design and planning achievements across four criteria: Planning Process, Learning Environment, Physical Environment, and Community Environment.

Elwell embodies the spirit of the A4LE’s planning and design awards with its innovative approach to school design and environment that fosters excellence in education. Elwell delivers a unique learning experience resulting from the District’s goals, guiding principles, and an integrated design process with heavy stakeholder involvement and buy in. The facility’s design encourages social connections, allows for flexibility and variety in its learning settings, promotes student agency and choice, and prioritizes a learner-led experience at the elementary level. Connections are made inside the building to the community’s history, and the design process authentically engaged a diverse array of voices and perspectives.

 “We are immensely proud of the elements that make Elwell School unique, and we are excited to share its story with others.”  
– Principal, Elwell Elementary School

At the heart of Elwell is the Community Commons, which combines functions of learning stair, dining area, and music stage in one, creating a versatile space that serves a variety of school and community gatherings. The Community Commons is accessed directly inside the entry and is immediately adjacent to the Admin area. The gym is accessible from the Commons. To the west, the Learning Commons becomes a playful and inviting space surrounded by the school’s academic communities.

In the learning environment, grade-level Small Learning Communities (SLCs) surround a core of community spaces, with each individual SLC delivering student options and flexibility through uniquely configured suites of classrooms grouped with outdoor classrooms in between.

The project opened in Fall 2022.

The leadership at RB+B is delighted to announce that Amanda Hansen, AIA, EIT is the firm’s newest Registered Architect!

Amanda joined RB+B in 2016 and has contributed to numerous projects within the firm. Her most recently completed project was the conversion of Eaton Middle School to Eaton Elementary School for Weld Re-2 School District. The $16.6 million project renovated 30,000 SF and added 5,000 additional square feet of space. Amanda is currently serving as Project Manager for Prospect Sports, Fort Collins’ newest indoor basketball venue, slated to be complete in 2025.

Notable past projects include Additions to Conservatory Green ECE-8 in Denver (completed in 2018) and Additions to Zach Elementary School in Fort Collins (completed in 2019). She has provided support to dozens of additional RB+B projects throughout her tenure with the firm.

We are proud of Amanda for achieving this consequential milestone in her career!

Amanda’s licensure brings RB+B’s total number of Registered Architects to 15.

The new campus design for Northern Water’s Granby, CO facility has officially been Certified as LEED Silver. The 45,000-square-foot facility, which opened in August 2022, combines conference facilities, offices, and an operations/control center with large vehicle and equipment maintenance and storage solutions for Northern Water, the municipality that helps to deliver clean water to more than one million residents in Northeastern Colorado. 

Key sustainable achievements as part of the Certification include:

• Achievement of the maximum Rainwater Management points in response to managing the stormwater runoff on site and through the natural environment.
• Through thoughtful landscaping, a 100% reduction in Outdoor Water Use (post establishment period) was achieved.
• The building’s envelope, HVAC, and lighting design resulted in a 29% energy cost savings per year and additional achievement of all three LEED Daylighting credits
• This building earned significant Materials credits, including all three points under the Low Emitting Materials credits, and the materials Optimization points, which illustrates that materials were installed in the building that went above and beyond industry standard for environmental impacts and human health impacts.

With its remote mountain location, there were no utilities existing on this site prior to the project’s commencement. Power, fiber, and gas were brought to the site and a well with filtration and purification systems was used for fresh water. An onsite water treatment system was specifically designed for wastewater and a pond and pumphouse were constructed to provide water for fire suppression.

The building, situated on a wide-open ranch, is positioned to take advantage of southern exposure for north/south daylighting and beautiful views to the east from the conference area. With concerns for the snow this site receives, maximizing the solar exposure of the entrance and main yard while having no north-facing doors was very important. Natural lighting is implemented in the shops and vehicle bays. Natural materials with colors and textures blending with the rustic surroundings were also integral to the design. 

Numerous partners helped the RB+B Architects Team bring this achievement to fruition, including:

• Adolfson & Peterson Construction, Contractor/CM
• Design Point Engineering, Mechanical Engineer
• RJ McNutt & Associates, Electrical Engineer
• BHA Design, Landscape Architect
• Farnsworth Group, Civil Engineer
• JVA, Inc., Structural Engineer
• Group14 Engineering, Sustainability Consultant
• AE Design, Inc., Lighting Consultant
• Wave Engineering, Acoustics Consultant
• CTL Thompson, Geotechnical

Congratulations to Alex Blum, who is celebrating 5 years at RB+B Architects!

Deep Dive with Alex: “How do you like to start and end your day? Do you have any rituals?”

I think it’s important to start the day with a good breakfast, because it gives me something to be excited about every morning. I usually have some combination of fruit, toast, yogurt, and coffee. I also try to get in a short walk and some stretching in the AM. Working from home, it’s important to get out and get some sun in the morning to help set my circadian rhythm and avoid the trap of getting to 3pm and realizing I haven’t stepped outside yet. I’m not as good with bed time rituals, but usually a cup of tea and reading a good book about an hour before bed time is the best way for me to relax and get a good night’s sleep!

Congratulations to Lacey Reckelhoff, who is celebrating 15 years at RB+B Architects!

Deep Dive with Lacey: “What is one of your favorite memories from the past year?”

This past year certainly included a few memorable trips, but the things I seem to think of first when I consider this past year’s memories are mostly routine, everyday moments.

For example, I get way more enjoyment out of watching my kids play their sporting events than I ever would have imagined. And quiet evenings hanging out on our porch reading and coloring with my daughter or playing cards with my son are the first things that come to mind when I think of what we’ve done this past year. As a family, we regularly ride bikes to our City’s Midtown area (restaurants, park/play areas, outdoor seating, paved bike trails, Farmer’s Market, and lots of people) and we enjoy monthly ‘neighbor nights’ with a group of close friends in our neighborhood who have kids the same ages as ours (game changer for an easy social life!)

I read a quote once that really resonated with me. It was about the importance of creating a life you don’t feel you need to escape from in order to find enjoyment. While our family’s life sometimes feels extremely busy with activities and hobbies, it’s also sort of quiet and predictable. And while I haven’t always felt this way, I have learned to really love the rhythm that makes up our daily routine.

Congratulations to Josh McGarvey, who is celebrating 15 years with RB+B Architects!

Deep Dive with Josh: “What topic could you give an hour-long presentation on with little to no preparation?”

My presentation would be called “Expand Your Horizons—why doing something different is so healthy”. Getting myself and others out of our comfort zones has always been a passion of mine. From trying new food or trying out a new sport, to traveling to a developing country, I’ve always been eager to stretch the boundaries of what feels safe and normal. Where some might see too much danger, too risky of a plan, or too strange an idea compared to the status quo, I see how the benefits of venturing into the unknown can grow confidence and understanding of the world around us. It’s easy to forget that our perspective of the world is as unique as we are. The world is wonderfully diverse and recognizing how small our part is in the grand vision reduces the stress and expectations we put on ourselves and allows us to have fun and appreciate the experiences we are given. Not every choice is going to end up with safe or positive results, but the value is in the challenges themselves. Go out and get uncomfortable!

Congratulations to Eleanor Fuller, who is celebrating 10 years with RB+B Architects!

Deep Dive with Eleanor: “What book, movie, play, or music has changed your outlook on life?”

One movie that really impacted me is the 2015 documentary “Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things”. I have never liked tchotchkes and clutter and always felt uncomfortable with extra “stuff” around the house. Before I saw this movie, I thought it was simply an organization issue. I would clean and put everything back in place, only to find the house in disarray again a few weeks later. This movie taught me that every object we own takes our time and resources to maintain—and we can get by with so much less! The problem can’t be solved with organization. It has to be solved by limiting our constant consumerism.

If you visited my house today, you wouldn’t think we are minimalists, but we do make a conscious effort to avoid impulse purchasing. When we do need something, we try to find it secondhand or will buy a good quality item that will last a long time. I credit this documentary with totally changing our mindset!

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important asset we have is our staff; each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Shannon:

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B?
Seeing the excitement from the staff, students and communities this past fall when our recent schools opened. It really brought the project full circle for me from those beginning visioning sessions all the way through completion.

Describe a funny moment during a project.
A few of us were on an interview team up in Granby and stayed at a very interesting hotel.  I experienced a failed attempt to dry my hair after plugging my dryer in every outlet around my room shorting them all out.  Come to find out the next morning, poor Seth almost froze because I ended up shorting out his heater next door in the process as well.  Who was the electrical engineer?!

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?
Quite simply – the people and the projects! Everyone brings so much talent and skill to every project.  We have a really fun group of people here and getting to work on such meaningful projects for our communities is pretty special!  

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
Becoming an Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) is a big goal on my list. A personal goal is to take a family trip to the Galapagos Islands and an African Safari trip with Joey.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
Experiences both near and far!  Whether it’s a family trip escaping to the mountains for a day or weekend, bear camp in Alaska or destination vacations, we are a family always up for new adventures.  I’m addicted to a good barre or TRX workout and have a newfound obsession of organizing the house. 

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     
I was set on moving back to Colorado when I discovered RB+B.  Its location in Fort Collins, the firm size and focus on commercial projects seemed like a great fit for me.  Since working here, I’ve developed an unwavering passion for school design and love working with the incredible talented individuals who all feel like my second family. 

Do you have a hidden talent?   
I have an extremely useless gift for being able to recognize actors from random one-off movies or when they were childhood stars. 

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self/30-year old self, what would it be? 
Accept that life will undoubtedly throw a wrench in the gears and what might seem like a failure can end up resulting as a great success for your future self.

RB+B is pleased to announce that Alsup Elementary School has received formal certification as a CHPS Verified School. As a 76,000-square-foot replacement school, Alsup was partially funded by a BEST Grant from the Colorado Department Education. The $27 million school was completed in 2021. The CHPS program is a criteria for the design of healthy, high performance schools for projects receiving funding under Colorado’s BEST Grant program.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Brianne:

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B?
Designing the ECE at Maddox will always have a special place in my heart.  I really resonated with the district and the kids, and it was one of those projects where everything seems to come together and it feels extra special.

Describe a funny moment during a project.
When we completed the bid documents for Casey Middle School, Derek was on paternity leave and Bo (aka Papa Sprinkles) and I were up late trying to finish the drawings with the enthusiasm only two inexperienced interns can muster.  About 2am I decided I should go home and get a couple hours sleep.  It was cold, and I went out to my car and started it.  I then realized I had forgotten something.  As I shut the car door, I distinctly heard all the doors locking.  This was an old-fashioned car where the key must be in the ignition for it to run.  So… yeah.  I went back inside and called an emergency locksmith to come unlock my running vehicle.  By the time the car was restored to me, it was 3am, I was running on adrenaline, and I decided to stay the rest of the night and finish the drawings.  It was my birthday after all!   Later that morning, my parents sent me a large flower arrangement to celebrate (think 4’ tall with bamboo armature and orchids).  I was downstairs in the conference room at break when Bo came running down the stairs.  Apparently, the vase was not structurally sufficient for the size of the arrangement and spontaneously broke, sending water everywhere.  I called the flower shop to warn them of the precarious nature of their design, so they sent me another one.  It broke in my living room. 

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?
I love designing schools – During a CEFPI (A4LE) conference, I met someone who had attended a high school similar to the old Fort Collins High School building – red brick, Doric columns, imposing edifice. For him, such a beautiful, stately school meant society cared about him.  Society valued him getting an education so much, they put significant time and resources in to it.  I’d never thought about how school construction speaks to generations of kids about their self-worth – and when you stick kids in an artificially-lit box with poor mechanical systems and no views, it sends a completely different message.   

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
I’ve spent the first 39.75 years of my life intensely focused on goals and achieving specific things.  I feel so blessed to have accomplished many of them, so I’m going to sit back and enjoy it. 

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
I’m usually wandering my vegetable garden, reading some random book, planning our next road trip, or trying to convince my kids that loading the dishwasher properly builds character.

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     
I previously worked at large firms, and I never connected with that type of culture.  I really like the size of RB+B, the passion people have for creating great spaces, and the way everyone is treated with kindness and respect.  

Do you have a hidden talent?   
Definitely.  I’ll let you know when I find it.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self/30-year old self, what would it be? 
I’m clinging fiercely to my 30-year-old self right now (see question #4), so to my 20-year-old self I’d say call your sister more often, eating some leafy greens wouldn’t kill you, and love isn’t big gestures but an infinite series of small things that create something wonderful.  

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Jamison:

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B?
Honestly, not sure it has happened yet, as I know when I see the PSD high schools finally open and seeing the kids use it will probably be my proudest moment here at RB+B so far.

Describe a funny moment during a project.
During a site walk with the owner and contractor on PSD Wellington High School, it was so windy that day it blew the hard hat off right off the owner’s head. The darn thing flew like 100ft down the football field, like a tumble weed. He chased after it and finally caught it.

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?
I enjoy working here because of the support and closeness I feel from my co-workers and the opportunities to work on diverse and interesting projects. I also enjoy the freedom the firm gives to explore ideas and concepts that be new or out of the ordinary.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
I want to get into fly fishing, I have been holding off only because I know I would dive headfirst in the deep in and would suck up all my time.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
The cliché’ Colorado answer I am afraid, Hiking, Biking, and Beer and hopefully add fly fishing to that if my five-year goal is to be completed.

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     
What drew me here was a small close-knit firm with very an interesting portfolio of work. What has made me stay is the opportunities to really dig in and make my career my own and the people of course.

Do you have a hidden talent?   
I am pretty good at cooking, pride myself in coming up with delicious meals from fridge/pantry rejects. Making an Indian staple Rogan Josh is one of my favorite things to cook and eat.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self/30-year old self, what would it be?
Don’t let lack of knowledge or the fear of not knowing hold you back from being or doing what you want.

RB+B is pleased to announce that Erika Ashauer has earned recognition as an Accredited Learning Environment Planner, awarded by the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE).

What is the ALEP Accreditation? (from the A4LE)
“The Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) is the professional designation of the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) and signifies excellence in the industry. It is designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and identify those in the educational environment industry who demonstrate the core competencies essential to the practice of planning, designing, equipping and maintaining educational environments. Earning the ALEP credential is the hallmark of a committed educational facility planner. It helps drive professional self-confidence, open doors, create connections, and offer widespread value and recognition for candidates.”

Core competencies of the ALEP include: (1) Educational Visioning, (2) Community Engagement, (3) Educational Facility Pre-Design Planning, (4) Design of Educational Facilities, (5) Educational Facility Implementation, Project Management/Project Delivery, (6) Assessment of the School Facility, and (7) Ethics/Professionalism.

A few thoughts from Erika on this recognition:
“The A4LE Advanced Academy to become an Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) was a rigorous and expansive experience for me, both professionally and personally. Being immersed within a network of diverse individuals from across the country and overseas to critically explore and develop concepts on how we can build healthy, safe, high performance, and sustainable learning environments bridged my academic background in cognitive neuroscience to applicable skills within the AEC world of K-12. The intensity of the program was outweighed with purpose, growth, and knowledge. I look forward to continued collaboration and application of ALEP to enhance learning environments while supporting wellbeing, culture, and community vitality on multiple scales.”

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Sarah:

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B?
Seeing the kids enjoy the schools that we work on, especially for the Early Childhood Center at Maddox is my most proud moment.

Describe a funny moment during a project.
Some of the questions that Architects get asked always amazes me! This summer, during the construction of Eaton Middle School they found a real skeleton up in the science classroom ceiling, that was apparently used long ago for instruction. One day at our OAC Meeting, Brianne and I were asked how to dispose of it. We never learned how to answer that in school!

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?
I enjoy working at RB+B because we get the opportunity to express our creativity through the uniqueness of the designs that each school brings and embodies. I love how each design is different and unique. I enjoy working with this group of talented individuals, who feel like family to me.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
In the next five years I would like to start a family and continue to advance, grow, learn, and put forward creative designs.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
Outside of work hours, I enjoy working out (hot yoga, HIIT workouts with Chloe, running, sand volleyball, and hiking). I also enjoy hanging out with friends and family, going up to Wyoming to help out on my family ranch, and creating art whenever I can. My parents got me a paddleboard for Christmas, so I am looking forward to using it as well!

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     
I was drawn to RB+B because the firm had a smaller-less corporate vibe that felt more like a family. I have stayed because I enjoy making a difference in young kids’ lives.

Do you have a hidden talent?   
Most of you may not know, I am really good at foosball if you ever need a partner. Sculpting is also another hidden talent of mine.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self/30-year old self, what would it be?
If I could share a piece of advice with my 20-year old self, I would say to slow down, sleep more, and go camping more.

The leadership of RB+B Architects, Inc. is pleased to promote Ben Basalay, AIA, LEED AP to Senior Associate.
 
Ben joined RB+B in 2000 and is a highly skilled Senior Project Manager for RB+B’s K-12 and Craft Brewery markets. Ben is currently overseeing construction administration of two new hundred-million-dollar middle school/high school projects for Poudre School District—one located in Wellington and the other in Timnath. Both are scheduled to open later this year.
 
Throughout his tenure at RB+B, Ben has managed numerous projects, including Boulder Valley School District’s Emerald Elementary School (Net-Zero Ready) and multiple projects for Odell Brewing Company since the firm began working with the local brewing icon in 2008. Between 2010 and 2016, Ben successfully managed more than a dozen improvement projects to elementary schools throughout Poudre School District. He has also served as Project Manager for the renovation to the historic Tivoli Brewing Company (Denver), Wibby Brewing (Longmont), Red Truck Brewing (Fort Collins), Intersect Brewing (Fort Collins), as well as the Ramskeller located in Lory Student Center at Colorado State University. His clients continually praise him for his thorough attention to detail and desire to go above and beyond for the success of a project.
 
“Ben’s superpower is his impeccable example; he is the first to volunteer to share his time and talents, listens more than he speaks, actively seeks a better way of doing things, does whatever it takes to meet obligations, and does it all with bottomless calm, humility, and good humor. We could not ask for a better role model for our junior staff, for a better ambassador for our firm, nor for a better business partner as he now moves into a well-deserved position of ownership,” says Matt Arabasz, Principal in the firm.

Ben received his Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies in 1998 from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and is a licensed Architect in Colorado. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects and has been a speaker at the National Craft Brewers’ Conference in collaboration with Odell Brewing Company. Outside the office, Ben serves his community as an “on-call” Wildland Firefighter for the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Services Division. He also volunteers as a youth hockey coach for his children’s teams.
 
About RB+B Architects: RB+B Architects is a team of 29 passionate detailers, problem solvers, artists and planners who develop creative solutions for architectural challenges for the built environment. With a single office in Fort Collins, the firm has helped numerous clients throughout the region design beautifully functional and sustainable spaces that enhance the community, specifically in the education, commercial, and craft brewing sectors. The firm has been serving clients in Colorado, Wyoming and Nebraska for over 60 years.

RB+B’s design concept for the New Vista High School Design Competition at Boulder Valley School District was awarded a Rockies Design Award for an unbuilt project in the 2021 Rocky Mountain Chapter A4LE Awards (Association for Learning Environments). The design encompasses 64,700 SF and accommodates 300-350 students on an existing 11-acre site. The A4LE Design Awards evaluate projects in four areas: Planning Process, Learning Environment, Physical Environment, and Community Environment.

Design Competition Overview:

In Summer 2021, Boulder Valley School District issued an RFQ to engage five firms in a design competition for the New Vista High School replacement school project. (The project was taken through the conceptual design process only and will not be built.) New Vista, a non-traditional high school located at the corner of Broadway and Baseline Roads in Boulder, serves 300 students and incorporates a curriculum based upon personalized learning. Its current site is adjacent to the University of Colorado campus and boasts magnificent views of the Flatirons to the west. The existing building no longer supports New Vista’s program and educational delivery styles, and is also oversized for its current student enrollment. Inaccessibility and aging systems contributed to the District’s decision to replace the building.

The conceptual process and design is based upon how students, staff, and the community would individually and collectively experience the reimagined New Vista High School site. The design approach embraces the unique aspects of the New Vista program and articulates a response that is flexible in nature while delivering various opportunities for individual and community learning. The building concept responds to the site, welcomes in the community, encourages individual exploration within a collective environment, highlights sustainability and the opportunity for personalization, and delivers a unique sequence of spaces to support academic and personal growth while meeting the diverse needs of the New Vista student community.

Happy Holidays, from your friends at RB+B Architects.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important asset we have is our staff! Each year committed to the firm is an occasion to be celebrated; but at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members and celebrate  major accomplishments, while getting their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Amanda:

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B? 

I’m proud of the experience I’ve gained by managing the Eaton Elementary School project and the project’s success. It’s been really rewarding to see big ideas come to life and hearing the EES staff say they can’t wait to move into the building when it’s complete.

What do you enjoy about working at RB+B?

I enjoy learning from my talented coworkers. I also enjoy being part of a firm with a reputation for consistently delivering exceptional and responsible architecture.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.

The two big ones are finishing the little project Tyler and I have started and getting licensed. Other goals include doing more cooking, baking, yoga and hiking, finding Walter and Stewie a German Shepard sibling, and doing some international travel.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?

Design and work on the house! I’ve also been donating art to various organizations to support their fundraising efforts.

Do you have a hidden talent?   

I’m pretty good at identifying vehicles at a distance, and particularly good at identifying them at night based on their headlights and taillights. I suppose this is a result of my love for vehicles and having a photographic memory. It’s not a particularly useful talent except for when identifying a highway patrol car in the distance is of interest…

Tell us something interesting that we might find on your desk.

Besides a whole jungle’s worth of plants (the window in my office gets the best light), I think someone would notice the pinecones. They remind me of walks with my Grandma Bini when I was young. She would help my sister and me find interesting things on walks and brainstorm projects we could create with them. They remind me of her and how she inspired me to be creative and think outside the box. The pinecones also remind me that beauty can be found just about anywhere if one is observant.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self, what would it be?

Be patient but also fearless in the pursuit of your goals.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff! Each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated; but at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members and celebrate their major accomplishments, while getting their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Gopal:

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B? 

Some of the feedback we received after the opening of Boulder JCC warmed my heart.

Describe a funny moment during a project.

In the dining hall of Zach Elementary School, Corky Bradley had the red pipe labeled as ‘ketchup’ and the yellow pipe labeled as ‘mustard’. One of RB+B’s classics.

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?

Because my co-workers are friends and the place I work feels like home.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.

I am in awe by the diversity and the beauty of this world, both natural and man-made. I need to find a way to see more of it.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?

I enjoy cooking and learning about food in general. I feel that making food is a good exercise for your senses. Although not very good at it, I dust off my guitar from time to time and play a bit. And, of course, there is always some home improvement project going on.

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     

We moved to Fort Collins to be close to relatives. RB+B offered a reliable job to start my career. I stayed because of the opportunities I received; the work we do at RB+B is meaningful.

Do you have a hidden talent?   

I grew up in a society where multiple languages were spoken. Not to brag, but I can converse in four languages.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self/30-year old self, what would it be? 

Coming out of college, I think I had a slightly exaggerated view about the role of architecture in a society. I understand now that architecture is just one of many important disciplines.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff! Each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated; but at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members and celebrate their major accomplishments, while getting their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with David:

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B? 

I enjoy being a part of the many small, incremental changes that have taken place over the years to how we operate and how we have developed and defined our culture at RB+B.

Describe a funny moment during a project.

I was “that guy” who accidentally stepped in the wet concrete pad behind The Melting Pot restaurant during CA.

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?

I enjoy working alongside the amazing people that surround me here.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.

I should really start taking retirement planning more seriously.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?

Cooking, walking, bike riding and traveling with my wife. Getting together with friends around the fire pit.

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     

After graduation I moved back to Colorado where my “wife to be” was established and I began working my way thru the yellow pages. I ended up with two local offers. George offered design opportunities in a lager firm that did more significant work than the other one. I stayed because I grew into the family here. The firm always had a respected reputation locally and that reputation spread throughout the state and nation, but it is the relationships with the people here that give me no desire to be anywhere else.    

Do you have a hidden talent?   

I can weld, but the word “talent” sounds like you have to be good at it. I am not.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self/30-year old self, what would it be? 

Relax and roll with it. Don’t be afraid of change. Understand that you are imperfect and so are the people around you. Give people credit for the many ways that they help you and show them the grace and mercy that you like them to show you.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff! Each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated; but at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members and celebrate their major accomplishments, while getting their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Casey:

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B? 

I think my proudest moment working at RB+B was finishing the MAC school bus for PSD. In not that it was a grand project, nor a glamorous project, but it was a project bred from community. So many talented and intellectual people came together to give to this project life. In addition, the support the project received from RB+B made me so aware that working for RB+B was an extreme privilege.

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?

I feel like this is everyone’s response, but hands down, it is the people! I have a pretty expansive employment history and a long list of experiences to go with it…but never have I found a better group of people that I would want to work with, and spend time with on an after-hours basis. I truly feel we are a family here…

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.

My immediate and primary goal is to finish my exams and get my license. My other goals are to continue expanding my knowledge of the profession, by working with as many project teams as possible. After only being here 5 years, I feel like I have learned a life-time of knowledge…looking forward to another life-time!

What do you like to do outside of work hours?

To say I keep myself busy is an understatement…My favorite, is simply spending time with my family. Anything I can do with my wife and kids, I will jump in with both feet. We all have a big passion for playing hockey, and we do so on a yearly basis. My wife and I play hockey a minimum of once-a-week on an adult co-ed hockey league…nothing like date night with the aroma of hockey gear! I also enjoy being involved in any aspect with my kiddos sports and education groups. I also like home projects and just about doing everything myself…carpentry, masonry, electrical, plumbing…and a auto-mechanic if need be…

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     

Initially, it was the easily identifiable rich history and culture of RB+B; of course, as present in their marketing material! I found myself reading everything about the firm over several instances prior to the hiring process…thinking, wow, that would be a cool place to work. The other initial factor was location…I have a Navy buddy that got married here back in 2009…my wife and I were expecting our son at the time and we came out for the wedding…we have some wonderful moments from that experience! We both thought it would be wonderful to live here. I think I have covered pretty well why we have stayed! 

Do you have a hidden talent?   

Hidden talent…well, I used to be a US Junior Olympic springboard diver. I kind-of created a special dive that was nick-named the “Triple Lindey” after Rodney Dangerfield’s epic dive from the movie “back to school”. It’s a double bounce double flip with a half-twist…one person has seen me attempt it in the office…let’s just say that my circumference has grown quite a bit, and my ability to spin is much slower than I remember it being…

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self/30-year old self, what would it be? 

The obstacle is the way…

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff! Each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated; but at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members and celebrate their major accomplishments, while getting their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Seth:

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B? 

Standing in a space that was once an idea in your mind that has come to life in the form of a building is a transformative experience.  I’ve been able to experience this a handful of times now, and it never gets old.

Describe a funny moment during a project.

We were in the middle of a coordination meeting with our structural engineer, and Josh reached into his pocket to pull out a pen.  In the process, he stabbed himself with a fork that he was storing in his pocket. Obviously, we had to pile on a healthy serving of ridicule, but to this day, Josh incredulously defends the position that keeping a fork in your pocket is a normal place to store a kitchen utensil.

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?
Working on meaningful projects and working alongside a group of talented and hardworking people that I enjoy hanging out with!

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.

Own a rental house.  Travel more.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?

There is never a good excuse to stay indoors through all the seasons!

Summer is for camping, fly fishing, backpacking, and volleyball.

Fall is for mountain biking, canoeing, and ‘leafer madness’ (ask Alex).

Winter is for snowboarding.

Spring is for all of the above, depending on what the weather dictates!

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     

I started working in the world of development where the driving ethos of projects tends to be to maximize profitability out of a parcel of land as quickly as possible with little regard to the project’s long-term impact on a city’s urban fabric, meaning to the community, and continued existence beyond the timeline listed on a pro-forma.  This is not to state that profit is an illegitimate motivator, but I believe good architecture strives to balance layers of meaning.  At RB+B, we design buildings that directly benefit the community and therefore become critical to a place’s urban fabric. We design spaces that outlive us.

Do you have a hidden talent?   

Making gourmet meals from the neglected and forlorn ingredients in the back of the fridge and cupboards.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self/30-year old self, what would it be? 

Humility is the key. Acknowledge your fallibility and shortcomings and your need for other’s unique skills and knowledge base.

RB+B is delighted to share news that Englewood Schools’ new ECE at Maddox has received the Grand Prize in the Learning by Design 2021 Spring Awards! Jury feedback highlights features such as the building’s appropriate scale for little learners, indoor and outdoor connections, integration of playful spaces, and the way the building facilitates a range of learning modalities and sensory experiences. Project team members included CBRE, Fransen Pittman General Contractors, Design Concepts Landscape Architecture, JVA Inc., Studio NYL, and Cator, Ruma & Associates. See the entire list of winners and other inspiring projects throughout the country here: https://pubs.royle.com/publication/?m=31173&i=700119&p=42

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five minutes with Jessie:

What has been your proudest moment at RB+B?

Besides reaching this milestone, I am often really proud when I see how impressed family,  friends, and colleagues are when I share our projects with them.

Describe a funny moment during a project.

A few years ago when we were working on Red Truck, Claire (my daughter, 2 years old at the time) used to tell me Ben was calling to talk to her about design, not me.

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?

The firm culture of having work/life balance, putting thought and care into everything we do, both during working hours and outside of them, and our holistic approach to wellness.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.

Get to know myself better, start painting again, create passive income through various investments, publish a series of books, become master of breadmaking!

What do you like to do outside work hours?

Real Estate Investing, Vegetable Gardening, and loving life with my Husband, Steve and our three children.

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?

I applied because I was looking for a culture change, and the firm seemed down to earth and kind. I’ve stayed because we are down to earth and kind, amongst many other great things.

Do you have a hidden talent or passion?

Hmm… I am unusually good at being calm under pressure, and acting quickly when needed. I once saved my daughters life when she was choking by performing the infant Heimlich instead of panicking.

If you could share advice with your 20/30-year-old self, what would it be?

I would tell myself that failure is not in the outcome, it is not trying. I would also tell myself to invest sooner.

The leadership of RB+B Architects is thrilled to announce the promotion of Shannon Mitchener, IIDA, Assoc AIA, LEED AP, to the position of Director of Interior Design.

A new position within our firm, the Principals are excited to formally recognize the important role of the Interior Designer in our practice and to leverage Shannon’s creativity, boundless passion for her work, and deep technical knowledge in this new role. “This promotion is for the internal benefit of our staff, for the external benefit of our Clients, and ultimately for the benefit of the public we serve through the spaces we design,” shares Matt Arabasz, Principal.

Shannon earned a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Colorado State University in 2006 and spent several years of her career in Oklahoma before returning to Colorado. She joined RB+B in 2018 and is a member of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) and an Associate member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). In 2019 Shannon earned her Vibrant Learning Environments Certificate from the Association for Learning Environments, a credential focusing on designing physical learning environments that create inspiring spaces and enhance newer pedagogical practices. “I thoroughly enjoyed the international attendee and collaboration aspects that took place through this six- week course,” says Shannon. “The discussions that evolved with other like-minded professionals left me inspired every day.”

Some of Shannon’s recent project work includes the New Middle/High Schools in Wellington and at Prospect for Poudre School District, Eaton Middle School, Monterey Community School, Cristiana Salon and Spa, Eaton Elementary, and helping to design enhanced spaces at RB+B’s own offices.

“Ultimately, my goal is to continue to reinforce the importance interior design plays on the end user’s overall experience within our buildings as it relates to functionality, materiality and their technical components, maintenance aspects, and best practices. I look forward to our interiors department remaining integral throughout the entire design process—from initial concepts through construction and beyond. I am truly honored to carry this new role within RB+B,” notes Shannon. 

Shannon’s new role reinforces RB+B’s ongoing commitment to design excellence, affording the Interior Designer a stronger influence at the inception of design, a stronger influence during internal quality control reviews, while more thoroughly integrating the Interior Designer into our overall Design Process.

Last night at the A4LE Rocky Mountain Chapter’s Annual Design Awards Extravaganza, RB+B took home two awards for projects in the new construction and renovation categories.

Englewood School’s Early Childhood Education at Maddox was honored in the Peak Design category for New Construction. Comments from the jury showcased the vibrant indoor play area and the building’s unique dragonfly design that served as inspiration for the floor plan.

Gering Public Schools’ Addition and Renovation to Gering High School earned honors in the Summit category for Renovations. Comments from the jury centered around the transformation of the campus that was created from the new addition, the showcasing of elements from the historic design into the new building, and the abundant use of daylighting throughout the new school.

A full list of submitted projects can be found on the A4LE’s website.

RB+B Architects is pleased to announce the recent licensure of Alex Blum, AIA.

Alex graduated from Iowa State University in 2018 year with a Bachelor of Architecture and has been with RB+B for two years.

Since joining RB+B, Alex has worked on a variety of projects, including the New Poudre School District Middle/High Schools, a renovation to Louisville Elementary School, and campus-wide improvements at Northern Water. He is currently serving as Job Captain on the $26 million conversion of the existing Eaton High School into the new Eaton Middle School in Eaton, CO.

Congratulations on this accomplishment, Alex!

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five minutes with Ben:

What has been your proudest moment at RB+B?

I am very fortunate to say there have been many of them. Whether it’s the ribbon cutting at a school, or the opening night for a Tap Room, seeing the excitement on everyone’s faces at the finale of the projects has been the proudest moments for me.

Describe a funny moment during a project.

I think Rebecca may have mentioned this one as well but climbing through the window (because the ‘doors’ were just decals adhered to the side-panels), for a joy-ride in the Red Truck Beer Co. Baja Racer was a fun time. As described by Red Truck, “The 442cc small block Ford pumps 600-plus ponies of giddy-up to the rear axle, and tops out around 120 mph.” While we didn’t get to 120 mph on that ride, I have no doubt it was capable.

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?

It’s great to work on such high-quality projects with so many dedicated and professional people. I’m thankful for the relationships I have with the people I work with.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.

This one’s not related to architecture, but I’d like to run a trail marathon. The odds are NOT on my side.

What do you like to do outside work hours?

Lots of hockey. I coach both of my kids and still play right wing with my buddies on Thursday nights. My 11-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter keep me on my toes. And of course: Hiking, Backpacking, Camping, Snowboarding, Fishing, Biking and all those other great Colorado past times.

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?

Making the move from Chicago to Fort Collins 20 years ago was a huge decision for my wife and me; the opportunity to work at RB+B was a major part of that decision. I came and stayed because the types of work we do are constantly challenging and fulfilling.

Do you have a hidden talent or passion?

I used to brew beer at home and really enjoyed doing so. I suddenly stopped 11 years ago (kids) but would like to get back into it.

If you could share advice with your 20/30-year-old self, what would it be?

With all that’s happened over the years, I’m not sure I would even recognize my 20-year old self if we crossed paths on the sidewalk. I’d tell my 30-year old self to figure out what’s truly important in life and make decisions that are consistent with those ideals.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five minutes with Derek:

What has been your proudest moment at RB+B?

The Windsor Readiness Center project. We took a chance on a project type that we never worked on before, managed to convince the Colorado Army National Guard that we were the best team, and then designed (as several of the National Guard told me) their favorite and most efficiently designed Readiness Center. It also became the first Readiness Center in the country to receive LEED Platinum Certification.

Describe a funny moment during a project.

Watching Matt walk in flipflops in a blizzard during an all-nighter for job number 0628.
The year everyone got pregnant in the canoe room (Ben, Matt, Bo, and Derek). Class of 2027!

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?

The great people, memories, and the awesome projects that we get to work on!

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.

Take more vacations… real vacations!

What do you like to do outside work hours?

Hiking backpacking, camping, playing hockey and billiards. I also like to entertain and be entertained by my children: Skyler (14) and Deagan (11).

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?

Because I heard they hired people in shorts over suits!

If you could share advice with your 20/30-year-old self, what would it be?

Never be afraid to ask “dumb” questions: when you do, you might find out half of the room doesn’t know the answer either!

Progress on several projects with Eaton School District (Weld County School District RE-2) continues. In the office, we refer to these projects as the “Eaton shuffle”, where a new high school being built on a new site serves as the catalyst for allowing Eaton Middle School to move into the existing high school building, and Eaton Elementary School to move into the existing middle school building.

As Eaton High School finishes Design Development and moves into the Construction Document phase, the school’s modern, agrarian architectural theme has really come to life. Using a combination of wood, brick, glass, and metal roofing as the primary materials, and gabled roof lines which enhance this theme, the school for 800 students faces one of the most prominent roads into the town of Eaton and includes a site design that is respectful of the neighborhoods to the east and the rec center to the north. This project is slated to begin construction early winter of this year.

Eaton Middle School, currently in the Design Development stage and completing design later this fall, can accommodate 675 students when it opens. The Middle School’s design concept centers on a beautiful new courtyard space that will connect new construction with historic elements of the existing building. All four sides of the courtyard have significant amounts of glass for visibility and maximizing the indoor/outdoor connection. The courtyard creates lines-of-sight between the media center and theater, connects new and historic, as well as Core Curriculum and Unified Arts programs. The courtyard is an active space where students from all backgrounds and with all interests come together to study and present ideas, celebrating the school’s theme that EMS functions as a family that shares in life together.

Eaton Elementary School is currently in Design Development and will continue design through 2020 and go to bid in January 2021. Introducing bright colors (both in the exterior and interior of the school) will aid in wayfinding and add energy to this school for 600 students. One of the more vibrant enhancements within the new school is the development of new media center, cafeteria, and maker spaces all right inside the front entry. These spaces can function collectively or independently based on their use at different times of day. The school has an entire new look appropriate for elementary students and updates the facility with a secure main entry.

All three of these projects are on track for the district-wide “shuffle” to take place during Summer 2022.

The RB+B team is also currently wrapping up design on a new District-Wide Transportation and Maintenance Facility, which has recently started construction.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Denise

What are some of your proudest moments at RB+B?

• Attending the ceremony celebrating RB+B being named firm of the year by Colorado AIA – 2004
• Representing RB+B at meetings, conventions and professional functions
• Accepting ASID Crystal awards for our projects
• Walking into a project and watching users interact in a space I designed.
• Being part of the design team on any one of our projects

Tell us some funny things that have happened at RB+B.

• Thanksgiving eve circa 1992 – accidentally deleted entire C drive while backing up my computer for the long holiday weekend(!).
• Working on remodeling buildings that I worked on originally, or worse, the project gets demolished.
• A lot of water leaking on to my desk in the basement level, destroying screens, keyboards and papers
• Working long hours and weekends for months on major projects and kind of enjoying it, as I knew it might be the last time I put in those kinds of hours on a project ever!

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?

I look forward to coming to work at RB+B because of the incredible creative people I am privileged to work with, the amazing projects and clients and the encouragement and support of the staff and management. Being part of the design team and accomplishing our goals is extremely gratifying. I enjoy the comfortable work atmosphere and our office culture.

Tell us your future goals.

I plan on completing my remaining years with RB+B with the same enthusiasm, energy and passion as the past 30 years. After that, I plan on going out on my bike at 9:30 am on a Wednesday morning, snowboarding mid-week, cleaning all my closets, sketching and doing some traveling with my husband. I plan on staying healthy and fit well into my 90s!!

What do you enjoy outside of work hours?

I have trouble sitting still, so I don’t read. I enjoy figure skating, mountain biking, neighborhood hikes, occasional snowboarding, and hanging out at my beautiful home with my husband Jeff.

What drew you to RB+B and why have you stayed?

I came into RB+B (Robb, Brenner and Brelig) because of the reputation of the company, the team and the types of projects they complete. The size of the office, the incredibly talented people and the stability of the firm drew me in and kept me on board for all these years. The opportunity to express my energetic passion for design on so many different projects and to be part of such incredible teams has been both challenging, enjoyable and rewarding. I also appreciate learning from and working with younger staff. The opportunity to reach professional goals and RB+B’s support of staff growth and development has been much appreciated. I have been fortunate to watch the company evolve and grow and to be a part of it all. I truly enjoy and look forward to every single day at RB+B.

Tell us about a hidden talent or passion.

I really never thought I would ever travel much outside of the USA, but being so fortunate to have traveled to Europe twice in the past two years, I certainly look forward to exploring more of our world!

If you could share advice with your 20/30 year old self, what would it be?

My advice to me would be to keep an open mind, be willing to learn and accept criticism. Time goes by so quickly, if you have something you want to do, do it. Stay active, healthy, happy, smile, be friendly, kind, positive and helpful. And—save up for when you are old!

RB+B is honored to share that the design for the new Poudre School District Middle/High Schools was awarded the Rockies Design Award (for unbuilt projects) last night at the Association 4 Learning Environments’ (A4LE) Rocky Mountain Chapter Awards program! This award recognizes excellence in the areas of Planning, Community Design, Physical Environment, and Educational Environment. Congrats to PSD and the entire Design Team! More details on the school can be found on the PSD Middle/High School project page.

The leadership at RB+B Architects is proud to support Corky Bradley, AIA, Principal, who has announced his retirement from the firm after serving clients in RB+B’s Fort Collins office for over 26 years. Corky will set sail in January on his next adventure with a fondness for those he has met along the way during his 44-year architectural career.

“In my 26 years of practice in Colorado, and 18 years of practice prior to that in Southern California, I have found that successful and fulfilling projects always come down to one thing: the people with whom I have had the opportunity to work. I have met and collaborated with some fantastic clients, consultants, fellow employees, and peers. I can’t thank them enough for the professional and personal support they have always provided!”

Corky received his Bachelor of Architecture from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona in 1975. While attending college, he also co-authored the book, “Solar Primer One—A Guide for the Designer.” Corky interned and became a Licensed Architect in Southern California while working in Irvine for Coleman/Caskey Architects, Inc., prior to landing in Fort Collins in 1993.

Corky has always exceled at organizing project teams—both internally and on projects at large—while never taking himself too seriously. To this end, clients, consultants and his peers at RB+B have developed both a deep respect for Corky’s technical knowledge as well as a strong appreciation for his positive approach to life and the ability to explore solutions for any challenge that might arise. His witty personality and genuine warmth have helped him bring community and client stakeholder groups of all sizes and priorities together to discover functional and creative design solutions that everyone can rally behind.

Corky’s career has been punctuated with recognition on projects showcasing high-performance design features and innovative learning environments. He has been involved in notable projects such as Fossil Ridge High School (the first LEED Certified High School in Colorado), Red Hawk Elementary School in Erie, the Army National Guard’s Windsor Readiness Center (LEED Platinum), six elementary schools in Douglas County School District, four elementary schools in Poudre School District, recent major renovations and additions to Gering High School in Nebraska, and currently, two new middle-high schools for Poudre School District, which are scheduled to open in 2022.

“Corky’s indelible spirit and tenacity have helped shape this firm and our projects over the last several decades,” says Rebecca Spears, Principal. “We have enjoyed his thoughtful leadership when assembling project teams as he recognizes each individual’s values and strengths, as well as his positive outlook while searching for creative solutions in responding to clients’ challenges.”

Corky’s favorite part of the design process has always been working out exact details of a project and then seeing them come to fruition during construction. He plans to approach retirement similarly—with plans for travel, sailing, and spending time with his wife and grandchildren—and focusing on enjoying each moment as it comes.

David Kress, Rebecca Spears, and Matt Arabasz continue to lead RB+B Architects as Principals with the support of Senior Associates and a talented staff.

Cheers to you, Corky, and best wishes on enjoying the good times ahead!

The leadership at RB+B Architects is happy to announce the promotion of Eleanor Burke to the position of Associate at RB+B.

“Eleanor recently celebrated her 6th anniversary at RB+B and, during that time, has exhibited exceptional qualities of diligence, intelligence, talent in design and management, character, loyalty, and value to the firm. She has represented RB+B with top-notch service on high profile projects such as Kelly Walsh High School and Pool, and Trailside Academy P-8 School for Mapleton Public Schools,” says Rebecca Spears, Principal.

Eleanor’s favorite part of the design process is seeing the digital buildings we’ve created come alive with people once they become a reality. She has enjoyed photography for many years, a passion that adds to both her design sense and her appreciation of beauty in the natural and built worlds.

Not only is Eleanor an excellent architect, she shares her knowledge and experience with others in the office as a mentor and member of the Revit committee. Eleanor has also led the Wellness Committee’s Fitness Challenge program for the last several years. On the weekends you’ll find her in the mountains running, rock climbing, hiking with her dog, and snowboarding.

Eleanor’s dedication to RB+B and our clients is much appreciated and her advancement to Associate is well-deserved. Congratulations, Eleanor!

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers commit to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Rebecca

What has been your proudest moment/accomplishment at RB+B? 
Over 20 years, there have been many proud moments: great award-winning projects, happy and successful clients, and career advancement. But if I were to pick one, it would be the grand opening of the Boulder J. I was deeply involved and invested in the Boulder Jewish Community Center project from the first interview in early 2011 through years of design, negotiation with the City, redesign, more negotiation, value engineering, construction and finally opening 5 ½ years later in September 2016. And, it extends beyond that night. I’m still proud every time I open their newsletter and see photos of members using the facility, or attend a reception in the beautiful Levin Hall, or when I visit and see gleeful children, parents and teachers in the ECC. 

Describe a funny moment during a project.
During construction at Red Truck Beer Company in Fort Collins, they had the Baja racing truck on site and Laird, the GM, gave Ben and me a ride around the block even though it’s not “street legal”.  It was crazy-loud at over 800BHP. But we had our hard hats and safety vests on, so no worries!

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?
I love the people. I’m happy to be making a difference in the lives of our employees as well as our clients.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
As one of the leaders of our firm, my goal is always to provide excellent service to our clients and support the talents and personal growth of our staff.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, whether that’s traveling to new places or enjoying the beauty in our own state through outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and snowboarding, or just enjoying good food and good company.  

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     
RB+B is known for our exceptional school and civic work. I liked the idea of designing substantial buildings that have an impact on their neighborhood and community while also serving the public.

Do you have a hidden talent or passion?   
I don’t think I hide it very well, but I really love mountain biking.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self/30-year old self, what would it be? 
Appreciate all the experiences you will have, especially in terms of the opportunity to travel and see different cultures, landscapes, buildings, and meet people.

The leadership team at RB+B Architects is proud to announce that Matt Arabasz, AIA, ALEP, LEED APBD+C, has been named the newest Principal at the firm.

Matt joined RB+B in 1998 and has been instrumental in the success of many of the firm’s projects, including: Emerald Elementary School (Broomfield), Trailside Academy P-8 School (Mapleton), Fossil Ridge High School (Fort Collins), Kinard Middle School (Fort Collins), Summit Elementary School (Casper, WY), and Kelly Walsh High School (Casper, WY). He is currently leading several School Districts throughout Northern Colorado in developing district-wide roadmaps for the future of their facilities, as well as leading the new Poudre School District Middle/High School projects in Fort Collins.

While Matt’s commitment to the profession of architecture presented itself early in his career through committee volunteering with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), more recently this commitment has been focused on, as Matt articulates, “shaping our work from the inside out, as we refine our internal processes to elevate the quality of our work.” Notable initiatives with which he has led or been involved include setting up the firm’s standards in AutoCAD and, more recently, REVIT standards; managing office technology for a number of years; working collaboratively with the firm’s GREEN Team; pursuing work to enhance marketing initiatives; planning office-wide and leadership retreats; and helping to clarify the firm’s design process and messaging. He has a passion for improving building envelope design and serves as one of three professionals in the office who maintain the integrity of our projects in a Quality Control Review role.

Matt’s list of accomplishments is lengthy, though his proudest work lies in the realm of educational planning and his Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) credential. Matt received this accreditation several years ago through the Association 4 Learning Environments, an international organization focused on the design of educational spaces. Matt notes that, “obtaining this credential was part of a deliberate effort to improve my ability to help lay the groundwork for successful educational projects and to build a skill within our firm that would lead us towards continued success. In my experience, our clients are increasingly reliant upon their architect to provide leadership in this realm on educational projects of all scales.”

Corky Bradley, current President of the firm notes, “Over the past 21 years, I have seen Matt grow into not only an outstanding Architect, but a true leader and mentor. Matt exemplifies the design philosophy and culture of RB+B, and always puts the client first. His diligence in guiding our firm into the years ahead, as well as providing outstanding client service, shows he is unflinching in his commitment to high performance building design, our community, and to our profession. It is my honor and privilege to welcome Matt as a new Principal at RB+B Architects.”

Matt shares that, “Over the last five years, I have been deliberately shifting my focus from being the full-time “go-to person” for one or two projects to being a part-time steward of several projects, supporting other up and coming Project Managers in our firm. This shift affords me the opportunity for direct interaction with more of our clients and with more of our staff while creating advancement opportunities for our younger staff to grow into.
 
“Looking forward to the next five years, my goals are two-fold: first, to continue to refine and advance my skills as an Educational Facility Planner, and, second, to empower and encourage our staff to refine and advance their own skills. Perhaps my most important role as a Principal is to ensure the longevity of our firm and of our profession by supporting each member of our staff in reaching their full potential as the administrative professionals, marketing professionals, interior designers, and architects they wish to be. As a wise colleague once advised, the search for my replacement begins today.”

Matt joins current Principals Corky Bradley, Rebecca Spears, and David Kress in this leadership role. His personality, work style, and professional interests round out a leadership team that provides a diverse set of strengths from which both our clients and our staff benefit. He shares that our family-style office culture is what makes RB+B an exceptional place to work and an exceptional partner for our clients. “As a Management Team, we give ourselves the flexibility to manage each member of our staff as a unique individual, and we promote individuals with complementary skills into positions of leadership. This approach illustrates that, as a team, we strive for something greater than simply serving as a collection of strong individuals.”

RB+B Architects is a 22-person architecture, planning and interior design firm located in downtown Fort Collins. With an emphasis on high performance design, RB+B designs spaces that are vibrant, sustainable, and comfortable for those who inhabit them. Our collaborative design process engages each client personally, centers on the discovery of creative solutions that respond to each client’s unique needs, and results in Design Confidence.

Last month, two RB+B projects were acknowledged for their creative and responsive educational planning and design by the Association 4 Learning Environments’ Rocky Mountain Chapter. The Mobile Academic Classroom (Poudre School District) received a Summit Design Award (for renovations) in a special new category, appropriately dubbed the, “Magic School Bus” award. The Early Childhood Center at the Boulder Jewish Community Center took home the Peak Design Award for new construction.

Both projects were judged on criteria within four categories: (1) Planning Process, (2) Learning Environment, (3) Physical Environment, and (4) Community Environment.

The Mobile Academic Classroom (MAC) was honored for its creativity shown by a project that re-thinks what a learning environment can be. Judges shared that while the project was difficult to compare to other stationary buildings, it was, “impossible for the jury not to honor the project. The MAC is singular in its creativity and illustrates that a learning environment can occur in a multitude of forms. The jury was very impressed with the thoughtfulness evident in every inch of the transformed bus. In addition, the lightness and brightness of the overall space truly creates a unique and fun learning environment. Most importantly, the jury loved the underlying goal of extending the classroom into the community throughout the summer and the care used in designing the three discreet learning settings within the old bus.”

The ECE at the Boulder Jewish Community Center stood out to jurists for, “its overall attention to detail in all aspects of the project. The building implements the Reggio Emilia Philosophy which dictates the building serve as a neutral and natural backdrop to the children’s learning. The jury also was impressed with the commitment to the Design Advisory Group process and how the project engaged the community and realized the identified themes of Gathering and Inquisitive Play. The multi-year planning process is evident in the coordinated design of indoor and outdoor spaces. The jury appreciated the outdoor spaces being a seamless extension of the indoor spaces utilizing natural materials (water, mud and sticks) as play ‘equipment’. The playground looked and felt more like a backyard.”

RB+B design teams have been honored throughout our practice to work with visionary clients whose passion matches ours in regards to creating educational environments that are creative, functional, and responsive to helping their students grow and thrive. These two projects are examples of how a collaborative and inclusive design process can result in outstanding spaces for kids to learn.

More about the A4LE:

The Association for Learning Environments believes that:

• Facilities impact the learning, development and behavior of the facility user;
• The planning process is essential for quality facilities;
• Sharing and networking improves the planning process; and
• There is a standard by which to measure.

The organization is a non-profit whose sole mission is improving the places where children learn. Regional chapters spread this mission on a local level.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers remain committed to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Matt

What has been your proudest moment at RB+B? 
I believe “we” (in any grouping – a “team,” an “office,” a “society”) should strive to remember “we are all in this together.”  My proudest moment at RB+B was accepting a proposal from the firm to take a 50% pay cut during one unusually slow period to ensure one of my peers would not be laid off.

Describe a funny moment during a project.
I remember coming in one morning in a T-shirt, shorts, and flip-flops, to meet Derek so he and I could settle in for our final push on the Seven Generations Office Park project.  I was at my desk all day, then all night, then most of the next day.  Derek and I finished late the next afternoon, and when we left together to drop our project off at the Print Shop, I was walking through a foot of snow in my flip-flops and freezing my butt off.  We had been at the office for so long (probably 30+ hours) in one sitting that the seasons had changed!  Ah, the good ol’ days (when I could draw)…

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?
Agency.  Working at RB+B, while there are things I must accomplish, my day is what I make of it.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
I would like to learn a foreign language and travel to where that language is spoken.  Right now I am targeting Spanish / Patagonia.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
When I’m not at a soccer event for one of my boys, I enjoy camping, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, snow shoeing, snowboarding, telemarking, dirt biking, and motorcycling.  And when it is dark outside or the weather is poor – shooting pool and occasionally “binge watching” TV shows.

What drew you to RB+B? and/or Why have you stayed?
We moved to Fort Collins so JoAnn could attend graduate school at CSU.  I’ve stayed with RB+B for the flexible working environment – while working at RB+B I’ve worked with some great people on some great projects AND started/raised a family AND engaged in some great recreational activities.  At RB+B, I haven’t had to choose between THIS or THAT.

Do you have a hidden talent or passion?   
It’s not so hidden, but I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands.  Some of my favorite childhood memories are of the times I spent with my grandfather in his garage repairing or making something.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self, what would it be? 
All of life’s answers are “right here,” not “out there.”

We are pleased to announce that Brianne Smith, AIA, LEED AP^BD+C, has been selected to participate in the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) through the AIA Colorado. The CKLDP aims to train the next generation of leaders in architecture through a year-long leadership training curriculum focused on:

• entrepreneurship and firm management;
• teamwork and collaboration;
• negotiation skills;
• client development;
• community leadership; and
• understanding industry trends

Just 16 emerging professionals are selected annually from across the state to collaborate, learn together and develop as leaders in architecture. Prospective participants must go through an application process for selection where proven career success, community involvement and the individual’s firm support is considered.

The program is named after Christopher Kelley, AIA, who was an active member of the D.C. architectural community and suddenly passed away in May 2012. He was a respected leader within the Institute as well as within his firm. Through his volunteer efforts, he participated and contributed to initiatives and programs that have had a positive impact on emerging professionals at different stages of their careers. In 2010 Christopher was honored with the AIA Young Architects Award for which the jury stated, “Christopher has proven himself a young leader within and around the AIA, a real example for other young professionals.” This program is intended to continue his legacy of leadership and activism.

Brianne is a Senior Associate at RB+B and has been with the firm 11 years. For more information on the CKLDP program, please visit: https://aiacolorado.org/christopher-kelley-leadership-development-program/

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers remain committed to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Corky:

What has been your proudest moment at RB+B? 
There have been so many over these 25 years! From great projects (Fossil Ridge High School, Red Hawk Elementary School, the Windsor National Guard, Conservatory Green at DPS, just to name a few), to 2004  when RB+B was named Firm of the Year by the Colorado AIA. And I’m constantly reminded of how proud I am of RB+B at every interview!

Describe a funny moment during a project.
Well, remarkable if not ‘funny’: In Douglas County, the contractor drilled and poured a drilled-pier for a foundation. When they returned the next morning the whole thing had vanished!  (“Alright, who stole our caisson?”) Seems that it may have been installed directly over an abandon mine and literally fell to its death!

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?
This could be a long list! But what immediately comes to mind is: it’s a great place to earn the respect of colleagues, the staff are passionate about RB+B and excellence in Design, and I’m surrounded by friends (who put up with my silly humor).

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
Plan the second half of my life? I would love for the next large project we design to achieve Net Zero Energy.  And, I am very excited to be underway on the new High Schools for PSD!

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
Travel, attend concerts, occasionally getting to go sailing, and spend time enjoying my five grandkids!

What drew you to RB+B?      
My wife, Ruth and I were leaning towards moving out of Southern California to ‘try something different’ since we were both born and raised there. When we traveled through Fort Collins in 1992, we fell in ‘like’ with it. I had stolen the one page of Architectural Firms out of the “Yellow Pages” phone book (Google it!) and later, I began calling the three firms in town about coming to work for them. When I got RB+B Principal, Bill Brenner on the phone, he was the nicest, most genuine and patient Architect I’d ever spoken with. I couldn’t wait to come out and meet him!

Do you have a hidden talent or passion?   
Well, I’ve been known to sing at a wedding (my own). Back in the day, I performed in Japan and Europe with a large chorale group, and I played the drums. Oh, and played and marched in the Rose Parade one New Year’s Day with my University Band!

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self, what would it be? 
Time goes by fast!  Do what’s important, not just what’s urgent. Pause and remind yourself of just how fortunate you are. Tell your family how much you love them at every opportunity.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers remain committed to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Lacey:

What has been your proudest accomplishment at RB+B?
It’s hard to pinpoint a single event, but I feel really good about the way our firm has continued to evolve over the years in a changing industry. Marketing is one aspect of that; we’ve continually pushed ourselves to better communicate our story, and have been able to do so with success. Winning a Marketing Communications Award from SMPS Colorado was one example of the result of that effort.

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B? 
It would have to be the family-oriented culture and the friendships I have made. Our office is made up of people who are genuine, helpful, appreciative and honest. I’ve made lifelong friends here.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
In this world there are so many things always competing for our attention and begging to be pursued. My goal is to continue to help our firm make wise decisions in how we spend our time marketing so we can truly focus on doing the right things well. Personally, I keep thinking running a marathon is on the horizon, but half marathon training is so much more manageable!

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
Most of my “outside of work hours” time is devoted to my five- and three-year-old kiddos, and husband. I also enjoy running, reading, biking and attending events in our community, like outdoor concerts and festivals.

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed? 
We moved to Colorado for the outdoor adventures, and RB+B in particular offered a unique position that I knew I could grow into. I liked the idea of working for a smaller firm that was able to complete large projects, and I respected the high quality, sustainable design work the firm was creating. I’ve stayed because I truly feel the organization is one I can stand behind, which is critical in the marketing profession. My coworkers are also some of the most talented professionals I know; they make my job easier because of the high caliber work they deliver.

Do you have a hidden talent or passion?
I am such a planner! Sometimes it’s a fault, but usually being organized is what saves me and helps me to manage the responsibilities of work, family, and making a little time for myself.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self, what would it be?
Don’t compromise what you value just to maintain a job. At RB+B I’ve never felt I’ve had to apologize for someone’s decisions, justify behavior, or compromise my values in how we do business. We truly are a firm built on solid ethics. That is something I would not necessarily have appreciated earlier in my career, but I certainly do now.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important assets we have are our staff; each year our co-workers remain committed to the firm creates an occasion to be celebrated! But at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and get their take on what’s important moving into the future.

Five Minutes with Josh:

What has been your proudest moment at RB+B?
I would say it was a day last year when I was giving a tour at High Plains School and was able to see a project I had poured effort into for years finally working to inspire hundreds of kids!  It’s easy to get caught up in the details of design and construction so experiencing first-hand the smiling faces of the students was incredible.

Describe a funny moment during a project.
I rendered a video once for a client whose business focus was on ranching so I put cows outside the windows that you could see as you flew by. I thought it was hilarious but the client wasn’t so impressed.

Why do you enjoy working at RB+B?
I love the family atmosphere of the office. There are people behind all the work that our office does and the quality of the work we produce is a reflection of the amazingly collaborative culture we have here.

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
I’d like to work on the design of a net-zero building of some kind. I also want to hike some more 14ers and explore the southwest region of Colorado.

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
I like hanging out with friends, hiking, camping, volleyball, skiing, traveling and relaxing with my dog, Baxter.

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?     
I first applied at RB+B because I really wanted to live near the mountains in Colorado and be part of a firm that designed quality, sustainable architecture. I’m still here because I still love the mountains and this firm as much as the day I moved here.

Do you have a hidden talent or passion?   
It’s not really a secret, but I like playing piano and writing music. Sometimes I pretend I’m a photographer.

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self, what would it be?
I’d think I’d say to relax a bit and to not be afraid to make more mistakes. I’d tell myself to get more sleep for sure!

RB+B Architects is pleased to announce the recent licensure of Seth Lehman, AIA, LEED AP.

Seth graduated cum laude in 2013 with a Bachelor of Architecture from Iowa State University and has been with RB+B for two years.

Seth has experience with projects of a variety size and scope. He is currently serving as Job Captain on the $20 million Gering High School Renovation and Addition in Gering, NE.

RB+B recognizes that the most creative and important asset we have is the RB+B staff. Yes, each year a co-worker remains committed to the firm is an occasion to be celebrated; but at five-year milestones, we take a little extra time to check in with our talented team members to celebrate their major accomplishments, and hear their take on what’s important as we move into the future.

Five Minutes with Eleanor

What has been your proudest accomplishment at RB+B?
Becoming licensed in 2016!

Describe a funny moment during a project.
I was checking-in the furniture inventory once it was delivered at Kelly Walsh High School. School was already in session. I walked into a room to check that everything had been delivered and was sharply reprimanded by a teacher for being a “student in the teacher work area”.  I had to then explain that I was actually one of the architects that worked on their school! 

What drew you to RB+B? Why have you stayed?  
I liked the type of work I saw in RB+B’s portfolio. I was interested in working on schools because they are buildings designed to last. I was also eager to work for a firm that took sustainability seriously. When I toured the office for the first time, I was wowed by the sweet downtown location! I’m proud of the quality of work this firm designs and delivers. I am never ashamed to say “my firm designed that!” I’ve stayed at RB+B because of the office culture. The firm size is perfect because you get to know people really well. The people that I work with are awesome. Everyone is super chill and friendly. I also feel like RB+B really values me as an employee and makes it a point to show their appreciation. I love coming to work every day!

Do you have a hidden talent or passion?
I’ve enjoyed photography for many years. When I was little, my mom would get angry with me for “wasting” all the film in the camera!

If you could share a piece of advice with your 20-year old self, what would it be?  
I’d tell myself to get a little more sleep. I’d reassure myself that working as an architect is far less stressful than studio!     

Tell us about a goal you have for the next five years.
This question is so hard! I want to maintain the work-life balance I’ve enjoyed for the past five years. I think as you move up the ladder it’s sometimes harder to do that, but it’s important to have a healthy career and personal life!

What do you like to do outside of work hours?
I like to stay active – running, rock climbing, hiking with my dog, and snowboarding are my favorite activities. I also try to spend as much time as I can with family and friends!

Bright colors. Flexible spaces. STEAM curriculum. A hands-on garden. Some features of High Plains P-8 School are pretty unique. But why has it become such a shining example of 21^st Century Learning, receiving national accolades from the Association 4 Learning Environments (A4LE) and being featured as a case study at the Green Schools Summit in Colorado?

“High Plains is such a unique school because the envisioned student curriculum and experience were set as the primary design drivers for the project from the very beginning” says Josh McGarvey, AIA, LEED AP, Associate at RB+B Architects and the Project Manager for High Plains. “There is not just one piece of the building that makes the project unique; instead, the way each intricate detail supports the overall intent of the design is what makes it such a special place. And of course, the administrative leadership and teaching staff play a significant role in how the building is actually being used.”

High Plains is a 63,000-square-foot, LEED Gold, preschool through 8^th grade facility in the Thompson School District, Loveland, Colorado. It opened in August 2016.

This past October, High Plains was one of just a handful of recipients to achieve an LEsolutions Award from the A4LE, and was the standout winner in the category of Exceptional Planning. This particular recognition focused on four areas of the design: the planning process, community connections, learning environment, and physical environment. The award was given to RB+B in association with thinkSMART planning, inc., the Educational Planner for the project. Onsite at the conference, Josh shared the story of how High Plains’ design process was unique and how an open-minded approach to design led to a successful design solution.

The presentation at the Green Schools Summit was in collaboration with two Thompson School District representatives, School Principal, Danielle Feeney and Executive Director of Operations, Matt Throop. “The most innovative aspect of High Plains is how the District was able to move from a fairly traditional approach to the design of their facilities and step out into a new way of thinking. This was the foundation of what has generated such success at the school and was the focus of our presentation at the Green Schools Summit. From the very first meetings with district staff, through the charrette process and the innovative review group called the Construction Review Committee, the school district and community had a positive energy, desire and willingness to do something different….something better.

Josh has been with RB+B for 10 years. Other notable projects Josh has been involved in include Summit Elementary School in Casper, WY, Midtown Arts Center in Fort Collins, and Odell Brewing Company, also in Fort Collins. When he’s not at the office, you’ll likely find him hiking, skiing or hanging out with his incredibly awesome dog, Baxter.

For more on High Plains, take a peak at this video created by Thompson School District.

RB+B Architects, in collaboration with Fielding Nair International, is pleased to announce that Boulder Valley School District’s Emerald Elementary School has been named a Peak Design Award winner from the Rocky Mountain Chapter Association 4 Learning Environments (A4LE). The project is one of BVSD’s Exemplar Schools that employs a new way of teaching and 21^st Century design. The project is also net-zero ready and targeted to operate at just 30 kBTU/sf/yr. Swinerton Builders enabled the building come to life.

The Rocky Mountain Chapter A4LE awards recognize excellence in four areas of educational design: planning process, physical environment, learning environment, and community connection. The new Emerald Elementary replaces the existing building on the same site and was built while the site remained operational. The facility deliberately encourages more collaborative, student-centered, project-based activity. 

Many traditional areas of a school were reimagined at Emerald. Inside the building, a central gathering space that would once have served as the media center is redefined as the Curiosity Center to better reflect its use as a place for gathering, research, discovery and project creation. Collaborative learning and project areas are associated with groups of three to five classrooms and teacher collaboration and planning areas are located throughout. The preschool and kindergarten wing has a common teaching/reading area. Transparency between learning areas and the outdoors was also a key component of the design.

The 56,000-square-foot building cost roughly $18.7 million. More details on the project can be found here.

RB+B Architects, together with thinkSMART planning, inc., is privileged to announce that High Plains PK-8 School in Loveland, CO has achieved one of the highest honors awarded in educational planning excellence. The Association 4 Learning Environments’ (A4LE) LEsolutions Awards recognize projects that stimulate systemic change in the educational system by addressing difficult questions, challenging the status quo, and raising expectations. The awards embody great architectural design solutions, and the successful components and characteristics of these projects have been founded in an interactive process that engages multiple stakeholders to create educational environments that hold purpose and distinction within a community.*

High Plains was one of eight schools selected from an international pool of 59 entries to receive an LEsolutions Award. Categories of recognition included New Learning Environment, Post-Secondary, Renovation/Addition, Small Project, Exceptional Planning (the category of award for High Plains), and a Juror’s Choice award.

“We like to say that the best projects come from the best clients, and High Plains is no exception. Without the Facilities and Administrative leadership from Thompson School District, as well as the collaborative involvement from High Plains’ Design Advisory Group and Construction Review Committees, this project would not have achieved the results that it has. Significant support from these groups, the Loveland community, the professional talents of our entire Design Consulting Team, and Heath Construction are what truly made this project a success,” says Corky Bradley, the project’s Principal in Charge.

About the Association 4 Learning Environments
The A4LE believes that great schools begin with open dialog and deliberate planning. As such, the Association is committed to recognizing learning environments that positively affect the teaching and learning process while serving as an example of sound planning principles. They result in appropriate and effective design solutions that reflect the community to which they belong.
 
Click here for more information on the award winners from the A4LE website.

*Information from the A4LE.

RB+B Architects teamed with Sampson Construction to design and construct renovations and additions to Vikan Middle School in Brighton. The $6.7 million Design-Build project celebrated its grand opening Thursday. Vikan is the Sampson/RB+B Team’s second Design-Build project in the last year and one of four total projects on which the firms have collaborated.

The scope of the project included renovating six small classrooms into four larger classrooms, as well as electrical, mechanical, and infrastructural upgrades. The design adds 10,000 square feet of new space to accommodate more classrooms and support facilities. A new entry and vestibule were also redesigned to enhance the overall aesthetic of the school; the reception area was also renovated and a new secure entry and administrative area was designed.

Vikan was one of a dozen new or major renovation projects funded through the District’s 2015 Bond Program. Numerous other schools in the District also received safety, security, and maintenance upgrades. The project was completed under a short schedule—11 months for design, permitting and construction—and was completed within budget and on time for the 2017/18 school year.

RB+B Architects announces that the Boulder Jewish Community Center wins 2017 Crystal Awards from the Colorado Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers. The project received two awards: Commercial-Institutional Award and Judges’ Merit Award for Commercial.

The Crystal Awards, organized by the Colorado Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), is held annually to honor projects that have achieved excellence in Interior Design. Project entries can be submitted within nine commercial categories (as well as residential) and are blind-judged by a team of established interior commercial and residential industry leaders from disciplines such as industrial designers, architects and educators located throughout the United States. The 53,000-square-foot, LEED Certified, Boulder Jewish Community Center (JCC) was recognized with two honors last week at the organization’s gala: the Award for Commercial-Institutional projects and the Judges’ Merit Award for a commercial space.

The JCC is a community center open to everyone, completed last year. The JCC embodies a timeless quality with local natural materials, outdoor gathering spaces and an abundant amount of natural light. The entry courtyard, with its signature massive stone wall, brings together visitors and is a protected space for gatherings and events. The building is comprised of two primary wings: the daycare and early childhood center housed in one half of the building, while the other half houses a community hall with glorious views of the Flatirons, a fitness center, Jewish library and classrooms serving infants through seniors. The selection of finishes and materials possess a timeless quality and aesthetic, while withstanding daily use.  All finishes respect the importance and symbolism in the building. Porcelain tile, carpet, vinyl wood and engineered wood flooring contributed to the contemporary interpretation of the design.  Wood ceiling and laminated beams lend textural warmth. Finishes in the Early Childhood wing are light and natural, lit from all sides and from above.

“We’re very happy to receive these two awards for the interior design of the JCC,” says RB+B’s Principal in Charge for the project, Rebecca Spears. “Working closely with Kellie, Susan, Roberta, Jonathan, and the rest of the design team, we were able to achieve their vision of a peaceful, welcoming building, transfused with warmth and light that portrays a solid, lasting presence. Congratulations to the members of the JCC on their award-winning building!” 

Designed as a replacement facility for Weld County School District 6, Prairie Heights Middle School (Evans, CO) incorporates a number of high performance design strategies. As any well-designed building should, the LEED Gold Certified school incorporates a number of passive design elements that help lower operating costs and provide a healthy environment for students.

Supplementing the sustainable building strategies is a 499 kW photovoltaic (PV) array located onsite. The array is a ground mounted single axis tracking system which tracks the sun from sunrise to sunset, maximizing production throughout the day. The PV system is currently offsetting 92% of the building’s energy loads.

Other high performance design features of the school include:

• Aggressive daylighting and integrated south shading to provide high levels of natural light and exterior views;
• Displacement ventilation, an energy efficient HVAC system that delivers fresh air low at the students’ level and is very quiet due to low-velocity air movement;
• Skylights serve the central atrium hallway spaces, providing light to both the front and back of classrooms;
• A rooftop garden above the main entry, accessed from the library.

Prairie Heights was designed as a joint venture of RB+B Architects and HCM. Want more details on this school? Check out our portfolio.

In November 2016, the community supporting Mapleton Public Schools passed a $150 million bond, with funds allocated to improve nearly every school in the District. Midtown PK-8 is a new 72,300-square-foot PreK-8 building is part of the area’s new Midtown Development, located near 68^th Avenue and Zuni Street.

Designed for 488 students, this new facility will integrate Expeditionary Learning as the educational delivery model and has taken on an identity combining “Urban” and “Art” themes. Mapleton Public Schools is structured to provide choice, intending to match each individual learner with his or her optimal learning environment. MPS will transport any student in the District to any facility within the District; accordingly, each educational facility is not viewed as being a “neighborhood school”, but rather each educational facility is viewed as a unique offering within a larger portfolio of educational offerings. Early in the process, the Design Advisory Group determined the new Midtown PK-8 would be the “Urban” school within the District’s portfolio and is exploring opportunities for using “Art” to define and express the “Urban” concept.

RB+B Architects teamed up with Sampson Construction to deliver this $17.3 million Design/Build project. The school will open March 2019.

In March 2013, the architectural team for the new High Plains PK-8 School was selected by Thompson School District to design a vibrant new learning facility that would accommodate 600 students in Loveland, Colorado. Four years later, RB+B Architects is pleased to announce that High Plains has achieved LEED Gold certification and is now the second RB+B project to achieve LEED status in 2017 through the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

Design began with significant inclusion of a Design Advisory Group (DAG), which included District staff, administrators, educators, facilities personnel, parents, designers, and community members who helped to set the vision and direction of the new school. The DAG discussed curriculum options, how the facility might serve that curriculum, and formulated high performance design goals.

The aesthetic of the 63,000-square-foot building is a modern interpretation of a traditional hillside village. Generous amounts of north and south facing windows provide optimal daylighting throughout the building to enhance creativity and learning. The ground source heat pump system, coupled with 100% LEDs for lighting, allow for major reductions in energy consumption, potentially saving the district thousands of dollars a year in operating costs.

The school’s 870-square-foot green roof—situated over the gallery—boasts 200 square feet of inhabitable space. The green roof, along with proposed ground-mounted planters to the south of the school, offer gardening experiences to students and a unique outdoor learning space where various topics, including plant biology, could be taught.

Durable materials and learning concepts built directly into the design all help to contribute to this vibrant, functional, and high performing school. The $15.7 million project opened to students in August 2016.

The leadership of RB+B Architects, Inc. is pleased to promote Brianne Smith, AIA, LEED AP^BD+C to Senior Associate.

Brianne joined RB+B in 2007 and is an involved Project Manager for RB+B’s K-12 work.  Most recently, she completed Conservatory Green ECE-8 School (Denver) and she is currently overseeing construction on Journey Elementary School (Casper, WY). She also managed the Quality Control review process and LEED Certification for the Boulder Jewish Community Center (Certified last month) and was instrumental to the success of the Colorado State University Research Foundation’s OnlinePlus facility (Fort Collins) and Lincoln Elementary School (LEED Gold, Gering, NE). Brianne currently leads RB+B’s internal Drawing Standards team as well as the firm’s Post Occupancy Evaluation research program. 

“We are privileged to have Brianne join our management team at RB+B. Along with her great leadership qualities, Brianne’s passion for design excellence is evidenced by the post-occupancy research she has led for our K-12 schools, helping make classrooms better places to teach and learn,” says Rebecca Spears, Vice President of the firm.

Brianne received her Bachelor of Architecture in 2005 from Ball State University (Muncie, IN) and is a licensed Architect in both Colorado and Wyoming. She is a member of the Association 4 Learning Environments and the American Institute of Architects, and is currently a classroom volunteer in the Thompson School District.  She has previously served in various Board positions with the Northern Colorado Branch of the USGBC and is a 2013 recipient of the Northern Colorado Forty under 40 Award. Brianne has been a speaker on educational design and sustainability at various conferences—both regionally and nationally—including the A4LE National Conference, USGBC Colorado Green Schools Summit, and the Rocky Mountain ASHRAE Technical Conference.

RB+B Architects is pleased to announce that the Boulder Jewish Community Center has achieved LEED Certified status through the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

Grounded in the past, the new 53,000-square-foot Boulder Jewish Community Center (JCC) is a contemporary interpretation of today’s sustainable design. The facility, which has been in the planning stages for the last 10 years, is the first building to populate the Boulder Jewish Commons at the SE corner of Arapahoe Road and Cherryvale Road in west Boulder. It embodies the timeless quality planned for architecture in that development with the use of local natural materials, simple forms and qualities of solidity, permanence and integrity found in Jewish tradition.* (*summarized from Barrett Studio’s Design Patterns, Standards and Guidelines.)

The entry courtyard features a signature stone wall and serves as a protected space for gatherings and events of all sizes. One half of the building is utilized by the early childhood center while the other half houses a community hall with glorious views of the Flatirons, a fitness center, Jewish library and classrooms that serve all ages, from infants to seniors.

The facility also features numerous outdoor spaces, including community gardens, play structures and outdoor classrooms, play facilities and pavilions for summer camp. A pool is planned for Phase 2.

The $18.8 million project was completed in spring 2016.

High Plains PK-8 School earned the prestigious 2016 Peak Design Award for excellence in planning and design. The award, given by the Association 4 Learning Environments (A4LE) Rocky Mountain Chapter, is given to a project that excelled in four key areas: planning process, community input, learning environment, and physical environment.

High Plains, which opened last fall in Loveland, Colorado, is a vibrant PK-8 school that accommodates 600 students and emphasizes Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Match (STEAM) as the foundation of its curriculum. High Plains is the first district-run school for preschool through eighth-grade classes, and the first sustainably designed facility in the Thompson School District.

High Plains integrates a strong approach to outdoor learning, which led to a new, cutting edge approach to the facility’s architectural design. The building takes advantage of majestic Front Range views and creates a constant connection to the outdoors.

The north wing houses administrative offices, Pre-K and Kindergarten suites, gymnasium, and cafeteria while the south wing is geared towards grades 1-8 learning. The south wing is divided into four study pods (two on the first floor and two on the second). Each pod has four traditional classrooms (grouped by grade), restrooms, small group space and a shared STEAM room.

The school physically embeds mathematical concepts within the design. The cafeteria floor pattern is in set dimensions of feet in one direction and meters in the other with different angles etched into classroom floors and both binary and morse code murals to label the elevator on different levels. Other learning elements integrated into the design include concrete animal prints of various native species, exposed and labeled pipes and cables to show building systems, and special lighting fixtures formed of a collage of the school’s mascot. All of these features encourage exploration, discovery, and wonder within the physical environment.

The school is tracking LEED Gold Certification.

By Brianne Smith, AIA, LEED AP^BD+C

As early as 1993, the US Office of the Budget concluded that American human capital was of more value to the United States than physical assets and land value combined.  Paradoxically, the educational infrastructure in place to develop America’s human capital for the future – the schools and classrooms across the country – has struggled to achieve the funding necessary to update and replace environments conducive to learning in the 21^st Century. This combination begs the question, “What is the return on investment for funding improvements to educational facilities, and what does the United States risk losing by not improving the structures in which its children learn?” 

In the last several years, there has been significant discussion of how to best educate children, and a plethora of educational delivery models have emerged. However, the condition of the building in which that education is being delivered is frequently not discussed.  The Government Accountability Office has reported that school districts across the nation have underspent on maintenance by a combined $270 billion.  A 2014 National Center for Education Statistics study of the condition of America’s Public School facilities also noted that “53% of public schools need to spend money on repairs, renovations, and modernization to put the schools’ onsite buildings into good overall condition,” meaning the roofs, structure, exterior walls, windows, doors, interior finishes, plumbing, HVAC systems, ventilation, electrical and lighting systems, energy management systems, life safety features, and security systems that comprise schools are often inadequate.  Other challenges for school districts include having insufficient space per child, the presence of materials that are hazardous and/or promote the spread of disease, inadequate accessible bathroom facilities, acoustics that unsatisfactorily enable students to hear and understand instruction, and insufficient electrical and data infrastructure for a modern education.  

These inadequate environments affect students’ ability to learn.   A 2015 study from the University of Salford, Manchester suggests that as much as 16% of the progress made in the classroom across the academic year is directly tied to the quality of the environment alone.  The classroom itself and its natural light, temperature, air quality, appropriate stimulation, and ownership and flexibility play a significant role in the learning process.  This is self-evident – most people would acknowledge that it is difficult to learn in stuffy spaces that are too dark or not a comfortable temperature.  Yet, day-after-day, many students and staff are required to function in such environments without adequate financial support to improve their condition.

The dollars spent on education often provide a significantly better return on investment than traditional investment options, however.  In 2012, the Economic Policy Institute reported “rigorous research has demonstrated that investments in both educational facilities and in providing high-quality pre-kindergarten education would yield extraordinary returns.”  For example, a study based in California (Cellini, Ferreira, and Rothstein, 2010) indicated that referendums passed to improve school facilities resulted in the willingness of marginal homebuyers to spend $1.50 for every $1 of investment. From a different perspective, economist and Nobel Laureate James Heckman argues that targeted high-quality early education programs and facilities results in a 12:1 benefit to program cost ratio for society as a whole by reducing crime and abuse costs for the same population later in life.  Further, 50% of U.S. Mayors surveyed in 2015 indicated their city would experience more economic growth if they had access to a more educated workforce, far exceeding other options like better infrastructure and less restrictive zoning laws.

But what if we went beyond good enough, to create educational spaces that are truly inspiring?  What if the quality of our community’s school buildings symbolized the value we place on raising future generations to lead our country and a place that staff, students, and parents want to be?   These intangible benefits would lead to tangible results, like reducing rampant absenteeism in our schools, attracting and retaining more qualified staff, and enhancing the quality of our communities.  “I never teach my pupils, I only provide the conditions in which they can learn,” Einstein claimed.  As a people, we must take a hard look at the condition of our schools, and decide if we’ve given our children the “conditions in which they can learn” – recognizing that great school buildings are an investment in the human capital of our country with returns that benefit academic progress, community value, and quality of life for all.

Several years after first expanding into the Colorado financial market, Blue Federal Credit Union is currently designing its third Colorado credit union location and second in Fort Collins. This 11,000-square-foot building is divided into four suites – one of which will be occupied by the credit union. The other three will be leased out to future tenants. The site was chosen due to its proximity to and views from the street, as well as its access within this growing part of town.

The overarching design concept centers on the creation of a large public plaza on the south side of the building that will enhance the retail experience for the credit union’s members. The plaza includes shade trees as well as space to sit and mingle. The plaza is designed to be a neighborhood gathering space, serving as a destination instead of just a space to pass through.

Both the north and south facades incorporate glass so as to encourage visual transparency from one side of the building to the other. Materials were selected for their visual appeal, durability, and cost effectiveness. Fiber cement cladding adorns the exterior with an appearance of wood but a far superior durability factor. Stone tiles are used at the base of the building.

The project is currently under construction and targeting completion for the first of the year. This is RB+B’s second project designed for Blue Federal Credit Union.

RB+B Architects is pleased to share that Matt Arabasz, AIA, LEED AP^BD+C, ALEP recently received the Accredited Learning Environments Planner (ALEP) designation, a mark of excellence developed to reflect the knowledge, skills and abilities of a competent educational facility planner. The ALEP credential was designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance and identify those in the educational environment industry who demonstrate the knowledge essential to the practice of educational facility planning.

The Association for Learning Environments (A4LE, formerly known as CEFPI), creator of the ALEP credential, observed that “An individual who has been certified by A4LE has achieved the highest qualification in our profession. Clients can appoint ALEPs with confidence that they have been examined for competence by our association.”

After meeting eligibility requirements, taking a continuing education course, and submitting an application, ALEP candidates must pass a rigorous CEFP exam. Once a candidate has earned the credential, they must maintain it by fulfilling certification renewal requirements every three years, in addition to maintaining minimum continuing education units each year.

The Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) is the only professional organization whose principal purpose is improving the places where children learn. A4LE embraces a diverse group of professionals with one single goal – building healthy, safe, high performance and sustainable learning environments that enhance student and teacher performance and support culture and community vitality.  To learn more, visit www.A4LE.org.

Congratulations to Tivoli Brewing Co on receiving a 2016 Crystal Award from ASID Colorado in the category of Commercial Renovation under 15,000 square feet. RB+B Architects completed the renovation of this historic building in association with Ruggels Mabe Terrell Architecture.

Renovation of this historic space produced a unique working brewery, tap room, restaurant and educational space that is utilized by students, faculty and the community. The new stainless steel vessels and piping supporting the 30 barrel craft brewery have been inserted among historic remnants of the original operation. Twin 250-barrel (equivalent to 7,750 gallons) copper vessels towering through four stories of the building flank the opening between new brewhouse and production. 

The tie to history is brought out in features of the Tap Room. Table tops and restroom doors are made from re-claimed wood, and old beer bottle caps accent the restroom floors. Tap room walls are painted with the faded images of beer labels from the past similar to “ghost painting” advertisements. Original brew vessels, columns, brick and plaster have been preserved and are an integral part of the successful design, bringing this space back to its historical roots.

More details and photos of this vibrant space can be found here.

RB+B Architects is pleased to announce new staff members that have joined our team.

Having relocated from Texas, Casey Adler holds Master and Bachelor of Science degrees in Architecture from Prairie View A&M in Prairie View, Texas. Casey is an Honorable US Naval Veteran and brings experience in management and logistics. He joins RB+B as an Architectural Intern.

With a Bachelor of Architecture from Iowa State University, Seth Lehman brings both architectural and construction experience with commercial projects to the firm as an Architectural Intern. Seth has an interest in community service and has served in a variety of capacities throughout the US and abroad.

“We anticipate the contribution of each of these individuals to the firm will be immediate. Each one brings a unique background and skill set that will help to round out our project teams as we continue to serve clients with exceptional and sustainable design solutions,” says David Kress, Principal at RB+B.

RB+B’s core design philosophy centers on creating vibrant places that are comfortable, sustainable, and uniquely respond to the needs of those who inhabit them.

Launching with three beers on tap and seven more to come, Intersect Brewery will introduce a unique environment for patrons with a mix of music-inspired, local artistry, collected instrumental and pop culture artifacts, and a style – both aesthetically and in their brews – that throws the rules out the window. For a more intimate beer sipping experience, guests can listen to old vinyl records in the lounge, or, if socializing with a large group, move the party to the oversized bar or barrel-tables.

Construction is set to begin on this RB+B-designed Fort Collins brewery located at the Drake Shopping Center. Intersect Brewery aims to serve the booming craft beer market in this under-served area.

Owner Will Herdrick is planning a 2,290-square-foot Tap Room supported by a 2,628-square-foot, 7 bbl Brew House with enough extra back-of-house space to expand his brewing operation in the future. A future barrel aging program and kitchen expansion was also taken into consideration. A large outdoor patio space will boast a biergarten, fire pits, outdoor games and kids’ area.

Whatever you are after, Intersect Brewery promises to have something for everyone. The brewery will start pouring later this summer.

RB+B Architects is pleased to announce the recent licensure of Eleanor Burke, LEED AP^BD+C.

Eleanor is from Leavenworth, Kansas and graduated from the University of Kansas. She has been with RB+B Architects since 2013.

Eleanor has experience with a variety of K-12 and higher education projects. She is currently serving as job captain on the $84 million Kelly Walsh High School in Casper, Wyoming.

Rebecca Spears, Principal, notes that, “RB+B is proud of our newest licensed architect, Eleanor Burke. Eleanor is a valuable member of our team and shows great dedication to our clients and the practice of architecture. This milestone of obtaining her architectural license marks an important step along her pathway of achievement.”

The leadership of RB+B Architects, Inc. is pleased to promote Josh McGarvey, AIA, LEED AP to Associate.

Josh joined RB+B in 2008 and has been a project manager for a multitude of projects, ranging in scale from the recent renovations/upgrades to Mead Elementary and Middle School, to the new 63,000-square-foot High Plains Preschool-8^th Grade School currently under construction in Loveland.

“Josh is very detail-oriented, has a great sense of design and scale, is fun to work with, and clients love him. He is a tremendous asset to our project teams and his promotion to Associate will enable him to continue leading clients through a successful design and construction process,” says Corky Bradley, Principal at RB+B.

Josh received both his Masters and Bachelor of Architecture from Judson University in Elgin, Illinois. He is a licensed Architect in the state of Colorado, a member of the American Institute of Architects, as well as a LEED Accredited Professional.

Together with Brinkman Partners, RB+B Architects celebrated the groundbreaking of the new 18,000-square-foot Ascent Studio Climbing and Fitness facility last week.

Opening fall of this year, Ascent Studio will be Fort Collins’ new premier Climbing Facility and will include the City’s tallest rope climbing terrain. In addition to rope climbing, Ascent Studio will offer extensive top out bouldering (the largest area in Fort Collins), cardio equipment, yoga, a dedicated climbing training area, upscale locker rooms, a daycare, dedicated group and party climbing area with party room, and the most dedicated and newcomer friendly staff in Northern Colorado – all in the heart of the City.

Metro State University of Denver is currently developing a new facility for its brewing and fermentation sciences programs. Looking to occupy the lower level of the Tivoli Student Union, directly beneath the recently re-opened “Tivoli Brewing Company” brewery, MSUD will have a unique program that is able to interact with a functioning commercial brewery. It will include multiple lab spac­es, both smaller and larger scale brewing equipment, a fully functional keg line system, and many other unique opportunities for its students to become engaged with the rapidly growing brewing and fermentation industries. RB+B was called on to provide program­ming, space planning, and renderings for MSUD’s fundraising efforts, and is excited to be working with them on this unique and innovative project.

Built in 2006, $17 million Kinard Middle School is the only school in Colorado to earn a perfect Energy Star Score of 100. Kinard was the first school in the country to specifically be “Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR” and was awarded an Energy Star rating in its first year of occupancy (2007). The school is the most energy efficient school in the state of Colorado operating at between 20 and 25 kBtu/sf/yr. In 2013, Kinard was awarded a Green Ribbon School award by the United States Department of Education and is currently a bronze level partner in the Environmental Leadership Program.

Take a virtual tour of Kinard and learn all about the building’s sustainable features, presented here by the Kinard C.A.R.E.S. program.

To learn more about Kinard C.A.R.E.S. visit their website or connect with them on their Facebook page.

Each year, RB+B Architects holds an internal staff workshop to support the firm’s Sustainability Management System (SMS). For the past two years, the SMS workshop has been held at Primrose Studio in northwest Fort Collins and has focused around sustainable project design.

Goals for this year’s workshop included:

• Help staff understand all the steps of a project going through the office, from Proposal to Post Occupancy Evaluation.
• Work in teams to develop a concept for a net-zero office building.
• Help staff become familiar with office resources that support our sustainability goals.

As an exercise to incorporate these goals, staff were divided into teams of four and given a hypothetical site on which to develop a concept for a net-zero office building. Teams were given information about the site, program, and design goals based on the One Planet Living® principles (RB+B uses the One Planet Living® framework to inform our sustainability program). Teams then researched strategies needed to achieve these design goals and, as a group, filled out the project goals checklist and built models of their designs – all in under one hour!

Model of one team’s conceptual net-zero design.

Model of one team’s conceptual net-zero design.

Students, staff and community members gathered last Thursday to celebrate the grand opening of their newest school in Weld School District Re-6.

The new 103,267-square-foot Prairie Heights Middle School replaces the former, ailing John Evans Middle School and houses 650 students in grades six through eight. The design is based upon a series of atrium spaces providing amenities in clusters to the students of each age group. The “pods” divide the school into smaller more intimate houses.

The arrangement of the classroom wing allows for natural light from both north and south windows, as well as from skylights serving the central atrium hallway spaces, providing light to both the front and back of classrooms. Located on the second floor, the library benefits from natural light, views west to the Rocky Mountains, and access to a rooftop garden above the main entry.

The new $22 million school has an international focus, which is highlighted in the character and detailing of the building. An emphasis is placed on technology and sustainability within the design, and serves as a feature of the project for both students and the public. 

This project was a joint venture with Hord Coplan Macht. 

Each year during the City of Fort Collins’ Bike to Work Month, RB+B Architects implements its own office-wide initiative to reduce carbon emissions. Alternative Transportation Month, as it has been affectionately termed, was an initiative developed by the organization’s G:REEN | team to raise awareness for, and encourage staff to participate in, commuting to work and meetings with less reliance on personal vehicles.

A quick recap of the results last month:

• The effort reduced 890 total pounds of carbon emissions.
• 90% of staff participated in the initiative.
• The person who commuted by alternative means did so 21 work days throughout the month.
• The person who commuted the most miles by alternative means tallied 208 miles by bicycle.
• The three methods of alternative commuting including bicycling, walking and carpooling.

Alternative Transportation Month by the numbers.

Last week marked the opening of Daredevil Brewing Company’s new tap room in Speedway, Indiana.

Daredevil is an independent, Central Indiana based craft brewery that was founded by two award winning craft brewers and a talented craft beer enthusiast to bring their eclectic interpretation of aggressively fun beers to the market. The new facility was designed to blend industrial and modern architecture into an aesthetic that supports the functions of both brewing and serving beer. The project, located in an historic neighborhood, includes a new brewhouse and tasting room within its 10,000-square-foot structure.

The design itself combines precast architectural wall panels integrated with traditional brick and detailing to retain the feel of the surrounding neighborhood. The interior of the building is treated as a single volume, with spaces separating the tasting room from the brewhouse remaining low in ceiling height to give visitors a sense that the ‘magic’ of the brewing process is happening just around the corner.

RB+B Architects was the Design Architect for Daredevil’s new facility. The local affiliated architect was JRA Architecture of Indianapolis, IN.

Recently presented for review to the City of Fort Collins, this six-acre development in northeast Fort Collins includes two components: a brewery and self-storage facility. The self-storage component (designed by another firm) and brewery will both express similar language in aesthetic as well as a shared material palette.

The 7,500-square-foot brewing facility includes a 5,000-square-foot brewhouse, 2,500-square-foot tap room, 2,000 square feet of covered wrap around porch and a 4,000-square-foot beer garden for year round use by craft beer enthusiasts. While a tenant has yet to come forward for the new facility, the building is sized to accommodate a 20 barrel brewhouse and a production capacity of approximately 3,000 bbl/year.

The leadership of RB+B Architects, Inc. is pleased to promote Ben Basalay, AIA, LEED AP to Associate.

Ben joined RB+B in 2000 and has been a project manager for a multitude of projects, ranging in scale from recent renovations/upgrades to elementary schools within the Poudre School District to the last two major expansion projects at Odell Brewing Company.

As a home-brewer for the past 16 years, Ben has combined his passion for brewing with his architectural knowledge to help expand RB+B’s craft brewing market over the past few years. Just this spring, Ben presented alongside a representative from Odell Brewing Company at the 2015 Craft Brewer’s Conference in Portland, Oregon on Brewhouse Expansion Considerations. The presentation highlighted Odell’s recent expansion project while sharing lessons learned and key considerations for breweries to weigh when growing their facility.

“We’re happy to promote Ben to the associate level at RB+B,” says Rebecca Spears, one of the firm’s Principals. “He has that rare combination of skill in creative problem solving plus care and dedication to our clients. This balance is what makes the projects he works on such a success.”

Ben received his Bachelor of Architecture in 1998 from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. He is a licensed Architect in the state of Colorado, a member of the American Institute of Architects, as well as a LEED Accredited Professional. In addition to his service in the industry, Ben has volunteered as an ‘On-Call’ Wildland Firefighter for the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office – Emergency Services Division for the past 12 years.

In 2010, RB+B Architects adopted the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2030 Commitment. The AIA 2030 Commitment is a national initiative providing a framework with both metrics and strategies for evaluating and reporting project energy usage. The same year the commitment was adopted, RB+B was one of only 56 firms nationwide to take part in data reporting for their buildings. Data reporting helps architectural firms (and their clients) understand how decisions throughout the design process affect building energy performance over time.

Because buildings are the largest single contributor to greenhouse gas production (nearly the equivalent of both transportation and industry combined*), architectural firms’ primary impact on improving the environment is best achieved through energy efficient building design. More and more architectural firms are recognizing the benefit of utilizing tools such as the AIA 2030 Commitment. Just this year the program saw a 33% increase in the number of firms reporting data over the previous year.

This is an exciting step towards carbon neutrality within the architecture industry. In 2015, RB+B will continue to support programs such as the 2030 Commitment as we strive to enhance our culture of sustainability and the design of high performance buildings.

*Source 2013 2030, Inc./Architecture 2030.

RB+B Architects received the Summit Design Award last night at the CEFPI Rocky Mountain Chapter’s annual awards celebration for the STEM Conversion Project at Northglenn High School.

Northglenn High School is a large 1960’s-era comprehensive high school serving 1,900 students throughout Adams 12 Five Star Schools in northern Denver. The District provides aquatics programs for its students and for decades the swimming pool at Northglenn High School was the primary facility for these programs. When the District constructed a new comprehensive high school, a new aquatic center was incorporated into that facility and the aging pool at Northglenn High School became obsolete.

The principal of the school expressed a need for more educational space, and the District realized that the pool vessel and the building envelope were in relatively good condition. The District elected to re-purpose the existing Natatorium and Change House space into new educational space for their STEM program.

The Design Team worked with the district’s Design Advisory Group to establish a space program that included large STEM Studios for each desired pathway, a shared fabrication space, a shared large presentation space, a shared small presentation space, and shared breakout spaces. The intent was to provide generous spaces for direct instruction and lab-based exploration, and to supplement those spaces with spaces that support small and large breakout group collaboration, hands-on investigation and application, and presentation of findings to peers. Having access to a collection of different spaces affords instructors the opportunity to direct their students in a variety of learning settings.

The spaces are organized such that the large Studios are around the periphery and the presentation spaces are in the center, across the circulation path from one another. The large presentation space may flex to open to the circulation space on one side, and the small presentation space may flex to open to the circulation space from the other side, or both may be opened simultaneously to create a gallery atmosphere for special events, such as an exhibition of student work. A reception area, workroom, kitchenette, and large and small conference rooms were provided to support instructors and visiting outside professionals as well as after-hours use of the presentation spaces. In circulation areas, small informal spaces were created as well as spaces for storage and display of student work.

For more information on the project, click here.

The leadership of RB+B Architects, Inc. is pleased to promote Derek Young, AIA, LEED AP to Senior Associate.

Derek joined RB+B in 2000 and has been a project manager for several of RB+B’s high performance projects including, most notably, the Windsor Readiness Center, which became the first LEED Platinum facility in the United States for the Army National Guard. He also managed Casey Middle School (LEED Platinum, Boulder) and Hanna Elementary School (Hanna, WY). Derek currently leads the design team’s construction administration for the Weld 6 School District’s Prairie Heights Middle School in Evans, CO.

“Derek has all the tools we look for in a well-rounded architect – a keen sense of design, a strong desire to satisfy and exceed client expectations, and great attention to design and administrative detail,” says Ken Field, President of the firm.

Derek received his Bachelor of Architecture in 1996 from Philadelphia University and is a LEED Accredited Professional.

Congratulations to all the winners of the AIA Colorado and local chapter awards, as honored last night at the AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference Gala in Keystone, Colorado.

RB+B Architects is pleased to note that one of our projects – the Army National Guard’s Windsor Readiness Center – was among the honorees. The project received a Merit Award for Commercial Architecture through the AIA Colorado North Chapter.

Designed to house and serve the 1157^th Forward Support Company, the Readiness Center for the Colorado Army National Guard sets a new level of high quality, durable and sustainable design. Controlled daylighting, ground-source heat exchange system, recycled and reclaimed materials, building orientation, drought resistant plant materials and roof-mounted PV panels contributed to LEED Platinum certification. Comfort and security are delivered in a contemporary, efficient and specialized design.

Symbolically, the facility serves as a means to strengthen and honor military traditions while instilling a sense of pride in members of the unit. The architectural character of the Windsor Readiness Center is defined with a powerful form and color arranged in a linear design which allows for excellent solar orientation and daylighting throughout. The large sloping metal roof creates an impactful shape. The brightly colored interior/underside of the metal roof creates a flash of color that runs throughout the public portion of the building.  The linear quality grounds the building to the natural horizontal sweep of the eastern plains.  Arcing forms in the landscaping design at the entry as well as inside the main hall repeat the forms seen at many of the nearby industrial buildings, silos and tanks.

Working closely with military personnel and representatives allowed the design team to produce a high quality project that is efficient, aesthetically pleasing and will support the community-based citizen soldiers and their families for many years to come.

The building is situated in a generally east-west position in the center of the site taking advantage of the drainage patterns through the site to provide part of the Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection separation between the building and the Privately Owned Vehicles.  This orientation presents the main entrance and public portions of the building towards Great Western Drive and shields the military vehicle parking on the south and west side of the building leaving room for a future Field Maintenance Shop facility on the southwest corner of the property.

Students, staff and community members gathered today to celebrate the grand opening of Stapleton’s newest ECE-8 school at Conservatory Green.

Located north of I-70 on the former Stapleton International Airport site, the 113,600-square-foot facility serves the expanding community of Stapleton’s Conservatory Green neighborhood. In order to meet district needs, the building is designed to operate as two autonomous schools, sharing only the gymnasium, cafeteria, and other support spaces. High Tech Elementary School will contain early childhood education through fifth grades and Denver School of Science and Technology (DSST): Conservatory Green houses sixth through eighth grades. Colors and textures from the natural and built world are used throughout the design to inspire students to be more aware of the patterns that surround them every day.

Key sustainable characteristics of the project include a high efficiency building envelope combined with triple-pane windows to minimize energy costs. The school promotes the 21^st Century learning model with collaborative and individual scaled learning areas, outdoor classroom and vegetable garden, and ties to the local community.  The west wall of the gym features a brick mural of the runways of the original airport, lending itself to the elementary school curriculum of learning about regional history.  The building was designed by RB+B Architects, Inc. and built by Roche Constructors.

RB+B is happy to publish the third annual report of RB+B’s Sustainability Management System (SMS). The SMS document originated in April 2011 by RB+B’s G:REEN Team with input from the entire office. In our third year of implementation, it has become a valuable tool in guiding our office processes as well as the design of our buildings and their environments.

Our SMS annual report has helped us to document our vision and chart a course for action around each of the three areas of our business: Internal Operations, Internal Process + Technology, and External Product Offerings. With this report, we have provided a benchmark both for ourselves and for our industry to measure growth against. As we move forward, the SMS annual report will help us to tell our story, hold ourselves accountable, and celebrate our positive impact on the world around us. We firmly believe that sustainable design, as we practice it, will positively affect ourselves and the lives of the people who use our buildings.

Concentration areas for 2013 included (1) developing firm-wide sustainable goals and metrics for projects, (2) implementing sustainable design goals and tracking/reporting project data, and (3) broadly engaging staff in sustainability efforts.

The leadership of RB+B Architects, Inc. is pleased to promote Gopal Shrestha to Director of Design. Gopal joined RB+B in 1996 and his strong design ability has resulted in AIA North Chapter Design Honor Awards for projects like Westfield Park Pavilion, Fossil Creek Park Pavilion and Kinard Core Knowledge Middle School in Fort Collins. Gopal has been a significant part of the success of many recent RB+B projects including Red Hawk Elementary School in Erie (LEED Gold), Casey Middle School (LEED Platinum), Kelly Walsh High School and the new Boulder Jewish Community Center (targeting LEED Certification).

“Fundamentally, architecture is about shaping our built environment the right way, the way that cares for our planet and its people,” says Shrestha.

“Gopal has an infectious passion for architecture.  Beginning with a strong concept, his ideals infiltrate every detail of his projects.  Gopal’s enhanced role in our firm will be to guide each of our project teams into a unified  pursuit of design excellence, through collaborative design discussions,” says David Kress, Principal. 

Gopal received his Bachelor of Architecture in 1994 from Drury University.