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National Western Center, CSU Spur Campus, Vida: A One Health Building

Clark & Enersen was selected by Colorado State University (CSU) to design the Vida building on its new CSU Spur campus at the National Western Center in Denver, Colo. The state-of-the-art facility is open to the public and highlights the connection between animal and human health, with an emphasis on primary care for horses and smaller companion animals. It was specifically designed with flexible spaces that can be changed over time to meet the needs of the Spur campus and Vida users.

The abundant use of glass in Vida’s design creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces and invites visitors to immerse themselves in the programs and experiences within. Special attention was given to an informal procession through the public areas of the building that provides views into spaces where human and animal healthcare activities are occurring. A variety of spaces from exam and surgery to therapeutic riding and equine rehabilitation are available for public view. There are residence spaces located on the third floor as well.

Vida is also tied directly to the equine-assisted services (EAS) programs housed in the Temple Grandin Equine Center on CSU’s Fort Collins campus, which was also designed by Clark & Enersen. Both facilities now offer EAS in the program areas of physical, occupational, and speed therapy; mental health counseling; adaptive horsemanship and therapeutic riding; and equine-facilitated learning. Equine health specialists also provide medical and rehabilitation services onsite.

Additionally, Vida features a donor-subsidized veterinary hospital and various systems, technologies, exam rooms, and support spaces were incorporated into the design to support medical evaluations and procedures. Through close collaboration with CSU Spur stakeholders, our team was able to design a highly-interactive, public-facing facility that also provides first-class care for humans and animals.

Sustainability was a key design consideration for Vida from early in the process. In line with CSU’s desire to be 100% renewable energy by 2030, the facility features a 113-kilowatt DC, 255-panl photovoltaic solar energy system designed by solar designer, provider, and installer Namaste Solar. The installation of the solar system will be key to attaining LEED Certification by providing 8% Annual Building Energy Offset.