El Paso, Texas/167,245 square feet/228 Suites
BOKA Powell was initially commissioned to conduct an in-depth business analysis and prepare the building program for new apartment housing at the University of Texas at El Paso, and was subsequently selected to deliver the project as a part of a Design-Build team. The building program was intended to give the selected design team a “workbook” that would provide guidelines for creating new architecture that conforms to the greater campus fabric.
The ancient design concepts of Bhutanese architecture that provided the inspiration for the University of Texas at El Paso campus inspired the BOKA Powell design team in creating a housing precinct that fosters a sense of community, security and identity. The “fortress” housing blocks are sited in a way that minimizes disturbance to the terrain, while creating a series of focused courtyards and quiet space for the inhabitants. Adherence to modern accessibility standards was juxtaposed with the need to reflect the fortress nature of the historic model. Ramping and stairways are carefully integrated as recessive features of the building massing.
