Poster Mirto McDonald was instrumental in preserving the Benedictine Monastery as a Historic Landmark in the early stages of this multiphase project. The compressive adaptive reuse and rehabilitation of the 1940’s Historic Benedictine Monastery, designed by Roy Place, required expert knowledge of the existing structure and a creative vision to maximize the space given in a respectful manner. The project is comprised of three parts, the Historic, the New, and the Site. The goal was to create a holistic project that would effortlessly integrate the new and existing conditions in a way that paid homage to the Monastery while taking into consideration the updated Residential design.
The Benedictine Monastery Apartments was a multiphase project consisting of 255 new construction apartment units, new commercial space and low-profile parking structure. The new construction is thoughtfully integrated on the site, surrounding the Historic Benedictine Monastery in a complimentary fashion that is scale-appropriate and warm in nature. The new commercial spaces facing Country Club Road further merge the project with the rest of the urban fabric, allowing everyone - not just residents - the ability to enjoy the beauty of the Historic Monastery. The desert landscaping creates occupiable space between buildings to foster a connective flow between old and new. Enhancing and shading the various outdoor gathering spaces on the site, such as the Pool and the Sunken Courtyard, allowed us to further stitch and unify the buildings into one comprehensive project.
The Historic Benedictine Monastery Renovation required extensive understanding of existing systems to preserve as much as possible, resulting in careful modification of existing spaces into 37 apartments, a lobby, various lounges, a multipurpose room, a gym for residents, bike storage for residents, and a roof deck. The intention was to have a light-touch and a sensitive architectural approach to the renovation so the Historic Benedictine Monastery would be seen and celebrated from inside and out.
PROJECT INFO
Location : Tucson, AZ
Year Complete : 2022
Size : 225 New Construction Apartments, 37 Apartments in the Historic Benedictine Monastery
Cost : $60,000,000
Photographer : Logan Havens
AWARDS
2023 CoStar Impact Awards Redevelopment of the year for Tucson.