Skycam
13,500 square feet | tucson, arizona
architect: repp + mclain design & construction
general contractor: repp + mclain design & construction
materials: standing seam metal, bio based impregnated wood and fine grain stucco
photographs: Bill Timmerman
This extensive remodel revitalizes two existing 1975 structures, stripping away unnecessary ornamentation to reveal a modern, unified campus. By upgrading the thermal envelope and applying a striking new architectural skin, the design establishes a fresh identity that mirrors the client’s forward-thinking ambitions. The transformation seamlessly connects the previously disparate buildings, creating a cohesive and commanding presence on the site.
Design Strategy: Unification of two separate buildings into a single campus
Key Materials:
- Standing Seam Metal
- Bio-Based Impregnated Wood
- Fine Grain Stucco
Performance Upgrades: Complete overhaul of the insulation system and thermal envelope
Solar Control: Custom slatted screening and deep overhangs for glare reduction and passive cooling
Central to the project’s transformation is a restrained yet sophisticated material palette that balances durability with warmth. The design team utilized a combination of crisp standing seam metal and fine-grain stucco to create a durable, contemporary shell.
This industrial aesthetic is softened by the introduction of bio-based impregnated wood, which adds natural texture and ties the composition to the landscape.
This strategic layering of materials does more than just update the facade; it serves as the visual logic that binds the two separate structures into a single, harmonious architectural statement.
Beyond the visual update, the new facade is engineered specifically for the occupants’ daily needs. A custom slatted screen on the second story filters intensity, mediating the light for staff utilizing large digital screens, while deep overhangs protect the interior from harsh morning and afternoon sun to ensure consistent thermal comfort.
See the incredible revitalization in the stunning before and after images below.
