Client: Navajo Housing Authority

Location: St. Michaels, AZ; Mexican Springs, NM; Shiprock, NM

Size: 116,000 Total SF

Dyron Murphy Architects investigated existing housing units at three sites, and provided a report that found the cost of renovation outweighed the benefits of demolition and new construction. The original homes were built in the 1960s and were well beyond their effective lifespan, and exhibited multiple issues related to site drainage, structural failure, building systems replacement, and overall conditions.

The new design included post-tensioned concrete foundations and floor slabs, exterior wall siding and asphalt shingles, and extensive sitework with new utility work. The original homes were primarily “rectangular boxes”, and our design was rooted in providing a more “modern” look. A design charette was held with the housing participants and their ideas were incorporated into the design of the new units. Sitework included new streets and improved drainage.

The construction was provided by the Navajo Housing Authority via their “Force Account” program, where management and labor were provided by NHA’s own forces. The project was completed within projected time frame.

Key Staff
Dyron Murphy