Kelly Hall Replacement Building

The Kelly Hall replacement project at New Mexico Tech’s main campus in Socorro, NM, is a transformative effort to enhance STEM education and visitor engagement. The new 27,000-square-foot, two-story building will replace an aging, inefficient facility of similar size, situated adjacent to a newer annex of the structure being demolished. Designed to support cutting-edge research and immersive learning, the new Kelly Hall will provide state-of-the-art laboratories, collaborative spaces, and interactive environments that inspire both students and visitors.

The planning process began with a comprehensive feasibility statement and budget document, prepared by Vigil & Associates, to define the project’s scope and financial needs. This foundational step guided strategic priorities and secured funding to ensure the development of a modern, high-performance STEM facility.

Building upon this initial study, the Programming Phase incorporated extensive collaboration, including owner-provided insights, building committee meetings, and site visits. Specialized consultants led interactive stakeholder workshops—many conducted remotely due to COVID-19—ensuring that the final Program Statement reflected the institution’s vision for a dynamic and immersive learning environment.

Key elements within the programming document addressed critical aspects of the STEM-focused facility, including a space list summary, site and building design criteria, laboratory design standards, detailed spatial requirements, MEP and structural considerations, and a LEED credit matrix for sustainability. Particular attention was given to designing flexible, technology-rich labs and interactive visitor spaces that would inspire curiosity and hands-on learning.

Unique challenges of the project included its semi-remote location in central New Mexico, which required careful logistical planning, as well as complex soil and foundation conditions that influenced design and construction strategies. Despite these challenges, Kelly Hall was envisioned not only as a cutting-edge research and learning space but also as an engaging destination for visitors to experience STEM innovation firsthand.