SPS+ Architects

?? Planting the Seeds for a Visionary Future: The Bluestone Community – Tse' Doo'lizh ?? Though the Bluestone Community in Houck, Arizona, remains an unbuilt vision, it stands as an inspiring concept rooted in the rich Navajo traditions and values. Tse' Doo'lizh, envisioned as a community centered around home, tradition, and culture, offers a glimpse into what could be a bold model for indigenous planning—designed to preserve Navajo values while paving the way for future generations. The Bluestone design team captured this perfectly, stating: "Being respectful of traditional values and ceremonial sensitivities, the Bluestone Community team expresses the vision to commit to the Navajo Community Experience. We will create a sustainable community with the centered values of home, tradition, and culture that is uniquely Navajo for generations to enjoy and preserve our values going forward. Bluestone will plant a seed that our children will harvest." The Bluestone plan imagines a community that lives in harmony with nature, embracing an overarching philosophy of sustainability and balance. A thoughtfully designed mix of 200 single-family homes, apartments, and duplexes would offer diverse housing options, all interconnected by pedestrian trails, parks, and public spaces. This model emphasized community connectivity while preserving the landscape through minimal site disturbance. Although never realized, the project incorporated cutting-edge energy-efficient design principles. From high-performance building envelopes to the use of sustainable materials, the community would have reduced energy consumption by 30%, aligning with modern environmental goals. It was to be a beacon of sustainable living, with innovative approaches like reduced HVAC loads and expanded net floor areas. One way of preserving the rich culture was to purposefully name roadways and streets after traditional Navajo names such as Corn Pollen Way, Sheep Way Drive, and Medicine Berry Circle—in addition to having the Navajo Hogan-inspired homes’ doorways face east to align with the rising sun. While the Bluestone project may remain unbuilt, the vision endures—a blueprint for indigenous community planning that future developments can draw upon to preserve cultural heritage while embracing modern sustainability. Bluestone Community is one vision SPS+ Architects assisted with planting the seeds…where the community would Harvest Beauty. At SPS+, we’re proud to have been part of this journey. ???? #IndigenousDesign #Sustainability #CulturalPreservation #NavajoNation #ArchitectureForTheFuture #spsplusarchitecture

Exciting News! ??? We are thrilled to announce that construction has officially begun on the San Carlos Housing Project! For the past two years, the SPS+ Architects team has worked hand-in-hand with the client, engaging stakeholders and collaborating closely with the San Carlos Apache Tribe to deeply understand and document their design vision. This project is about more than just homes; it’s about partnership and dedication. Together, we selected finishes that reflect the tribe’s unique needs and culture, going above and beyond to create a place the community can be proud of. We are proud to be part of this journey, and we can’t wait to see the progress unfold over the next year! #Architecture #SPSplusarchitects #CommunityDesign #Collaboration #NativeAmericanProjects #HousingDesign #ConstructionBegins

SPS+ Architects own Richard Begay, Marcus Denetdale and Kenew’s Bob Terry III shared valuable insights as presenters at the Construction in Indian Country Conference on October 2nd at the Wildhorse Pass Casino Hotel Conference Center. Their expertise at Con 101 and Con 102 contributed to a successful event. #spsplusarchitects

?? Honoring Tradition Through Thoughtful Design: The SPS+ Approach ?? At SPS+ Architects, we believe that architecture should be a reflection of the communities it serves. The "Tsinnaabaas Ha'bitiin" school in Gap, Arizona, is a prime example of how thoughtful design can honor cultural heritage while meeting modern needs. Named after a historic wagon trail, this 25,500-square-foot building is much more than a school—it's a hub for education, community, and pride. Working closely with the Tuba City Unified School District and local community members, we incorporated traditional Navajo elements throughout the design. From the circular shape and eastern-facing doors, inspired by hogan building, to the use of the four Navajo sacred colors in the masonry and tilework, every detail was crafted to reflect the natural beauty and cultural significance of the area. The school stands as a symbol of pride and connection, offering not only a place of learning but also a space where the community gathers and thrives. By blending tradition with modernity, we’ve created a facility that will serve students and families for generations to come. At SPS+, we’re committed to designing spaces that not only function beautifully but also resonate deeply with the communities they support. More information about this project can be found here: https://lnkd.in/gpmMwsw9 #Architecture #CommunityDesign #NavajoCulture #SPSPlus #TraditionAndInnovation #K12Design #CulturalHeritage #EducationalDesign

As indigenous designers and architects, it is our responsibility to contribute “gifts" bestowed among us by bridging an authentic way of planning from seven generations prior to the next seven generations. ? Culturally inspired architecture not only serves the basic functions of use, but it is also the essence of the community's identity.?History and Traditions are essential to the planning process.?Understanding them in an architectural dialogue lends itself to an interactive process with remarkable design results. It is both a challenge and an opportunity. SPS+ Architects culturally inspired design for the San Carlos Apache Tribe's?Bylas Retail Center in Bylas, Arizona is a unique and thoughtful approach for blending traditions and cost-effective solutions.??We learned early on the importance?of storytelling in the design process. It is through storytelling that we pass on indigenous knowledge; and through storytelling, we connect ancestral knowledge towards the future.?Indigenous knowledge will ensure inclusiveness and connect designs to place. #indigenouspeoplesday #architectureinspiration #spsplusarchitects

As we approach Indigenous Peoples' Day on October 14, it’s a poignant reminder of the rich cultures and histories that shape our communities. SPS+ Architects is excited to dedicate our October content to exploring the theme of "Native American Community Impact." Architecture is more than just buildings; it’s a reflection of identity, culture, and history. This month, we’ll delve into how architecture can honor traditions, promote sustainability, and foster a sense of belonging. We’ll share insights, highlight successful projects, and discuss how we can all contribute to a more inclusive architectural landscape. We believe that collaboration is key. Engaging with Native communities not only enriches our work but also ensures that the spaces we create are meaningful and respectful. #IndigenousPeoplesDay #CulturallyInspiredArchitecture #CommunityImpact #spsplusarchitects

In an era where the safety and resilience of our students are paramount, sponsoring and attending the Arizona Charter Schools Association Annual Summit on Student Resilience & School Safety was both an honor and a necessity. SPS+ Architects Mark Davenport had the opportunity to engage with educators, policymakers, and community leaders who are deeply committed to creating safe learning environments for our children. This summit was not just a gathering; it was a platform for sharing critical strategies and expert resources that can make a tangible difference in our schools. One key takeaway was the importance of collaboration. When schools, families, and local organizations work together, we can create a robust support system that fosters resilience among students. Moreover, the discussions around mental health resources highlighted a growing recognition that safety extends beyond physical measures. Emotional well-being is just as crucial in ensuring our students thrive. As we move forward, it’s essential that we continue to prioritize these conversations and implement the strategies discussed at the summit. The future of our students depends on our commitment to their safety and resilience. #spsplusarchitects #SchoolSafety #StudentResilience #AZChartersSafetySummit24

Celebrating history while embracing the future is what we do best at SPS+ Architects. This week, we had the honor of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the rededication of the Mark Allen Dormitory at Eastern Arizona College, marking the 60th anniversary of its original dedication. Built in 1964, this dormitory has been a cornerstone of student life, and we are proud to have played a role in its transformation. Working alongside Core Construction Inc., we meticulously renovated the dormitory, restoring it to its former grandeur. This project showcases our commitment to creating spaces that foster community and support educational growth. As we reflect on this project, it’s a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural heritage while innovating for the future. Each project we undertake is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about creating environments where students can thrive, learn, and build lasting memories. We invite you to share your thoughts on the significance of preserving historical buildings in our communities. What projects have you been involved in that blend the old with the new? Let’s spark a conversation about the impact of thoughtful design in our educational institutions. #Architecture #Renovation #Education #spsplusarchitects

?? The Power of Community-Centric Design ?? In the world of architecture and construction, the impact of a project goes far beyond its physical structure. Recently, SPS+ Architects had the privilege of working on the Ak Chin Indian Community’s new Feasthouse and Canopy, a project that embodies the essence of community values and cultural heritage. This 4,639 square foot facility is not just a food preparation space; it’s a hub for community events, church activities, and cultural teachings. Designed to reflect the traditional shade structures, it serves as a reminder of the importance of heritage while meeting modern needs. One of the innovative features of this project is its rainwater harvesting system. The canopy channels runoff to an open basin, symbolizing the ‘journey of rain.’ This design not only enhances sustainability but also fosters a connection to the environment, which is vital for any community. Our team, led by Richard Begay and Aaron Tsosie, RA, NCARB, worked diligently to ensure that every aspect of the Feasthouse aligns with the Ak Chin community’s values. Collaborating with skilled consultants, we provided a comprehensive approach to architectural and engineering services, ensuring that the facility is both functional and culturally significant. As we move forward, it’s essential to remember that architecture is not merely about buildings; it’s about creating spaces that foster connection, learning, and growth. We encourage all of you to think about how your projects can reflect the communities they serve. What steps are you taking to ensure your designs resonate with cultural values and sustainability? #CommunityDesign #SustainableArchitecture #CulturalHeritage

Did you know one of our core values is a volleyball term? In volleyball, the phrase "we better the ball" refers to a mindset and approach in which each player strives to improve the situation during every contact with the ball, regardless of how challenging the previous contact was. It's about making positive, constructive plays that enhance the team's chances of success. We embrace this philosophy in everything we do. We believe in continuously improving, supporting each other, and turning challenges into opportunities. This approach fosters a collaborative and resilient culture where every team member is committed to collective success. This value drives us forward and inspires our daily work, making us stronger together! #TeamCulture?#Collaboration #ContinuousImprovement