University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Podiatric Medicine Renovation + Remodel

With firm deadlines and an active academic environment, the project required a disciplined, carefully sequenced approach. Working closely with University stakeholders, we developed a phased strategy that allowed the School to remain fully operational throughout construction while modernizing critical systems and reconfiguring underperforming space.

The first phase focused on the ground floor, where existing back-of-house facilities, operations areas, janitorial spaces, and storage were upgraded and reorganized to support new podiatry administrative offices. This phase also introduced a student lounge and café, creating dedicated spaces that enhanced daily campus life and provided students with areas for study, collaboration, and respite.

The second phase converted former office areas into specialized teaching and research laboratories, including anatomy, gross anatomy, plastinates, and microbiology labs. Because the existing building systems could not support the technical demands of these mission critical environments, significant mechanical, electrical, and plumbing upgrades were implemented to ensure performance, safety, and long-term flexibility.

The final phase relocated departments displaced during earlier construction to the third floor, completing the full-building transformation. Through strategic phasing, infrastructure investment, and close collaboration with the University, we delivered a modernized Clinical Education Building that supported accreditation, advanced clinical training, and positioned the School of Podiatric Medicine for continued growth.