Over the years, LHB has worked on a steady stream of federal projects, including buildings commissioned by the U.S. military. Our portfolio encompasses two projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, and work on a dormitory at the Little Rock Air Force Base in Arkansas. LHB’s first design for an Army Reserve Center, in St. Joseph, Minnesota, was completed in 2014 and followed by renovations of facilities in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
The success of these projects has not gone unnoticed. Building users appreciate the structures because they function efficiently, and agency managers note that construction has been completed on time and on budget—thanks in part to a design-build approach adopted by LHB and our collaborations with national contractors like LS Black.
Now, as the federal government shifts its focus to upgrading existing buildings, LHB is well-positioned to assist on similar projects. We have experience on military properties, and our team is familiar with the guidelines, rules, and regulations that shape their design. In 2024, we secured contracts for full facility renovations at two Army Reserve Centers: one at Fort Snelling in Minneapolis and another in Seagoville, Texas. Both are design-build projects with fast-track packages. LHB is providing architecture, interior design, and fire protection services aimed at improving technology, energy efficiency, and overall operations.
The buildings in Minneapolis and Seagoville differ slightly, but they share the same overall program: While there are minor variations depending on the groups stationed there, a typical Army Reserve Center has an assembly hall and drill area, a physical readiness space, offices, classrooms, and storage cages for every unit.
Here’s how LHB improved each facility:
SEAGOVILLE
Originally constructed in 1978, the building is part of a larger complex, and some of the typical reserve center program spaces are housed in an adjacent building. The program for Seagoville consists mainly of office space and classrooms, but also includes a medical area that provides dental, audio, vision, and exam services. Our work includes:
- Envelope improvements: The facility was constructed without insulation, so the building envelope is being upgraded to help stabilize temperatures in extreme weather and reduce energy costs. Spray foam insulation is being added to the interior side of the masonry walls. The roof is also being replaced with added insulation and improved roof drainage.
- Layout changes: The original plan includes spaces that are no longer needed in the current program. The former assembly hall will be converted to open office space. An old shooting range will be divided into individual offices. Circulation will also be rerouted, relocating the main entry door to align with the adjacent building.
- Exterior enhancements: All the windows are being replaced with energy-efficient double-paned, Low-E glazing. Windows have been added to the new offices. Glazing is also being added in the former assembly hall garage-door opening.
- Security enhancements: Per federal Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection guidelines, landscaping around the building will be improved to meet requirements.
- Interior upgrades: Bathrooms are being updated throughout the facility to meet ADA requirements. Classrooms have been designed to meet current technology needs.
FORT SNELLING
Also built in the 1970s, the Army Reserve Center at Fort Snelling had been impacted over time by water intrusion. Several lintels over the windows had been compromised by rust and required replacement.
- Brick and window replacement: More than 30 windows and the brick surrounds will be replaced. To create a thermal breaks between the window and lintel, structural modifications and repairs will also be made. The newly installed windows will be properly flashed and sealed to direct water out of the wall assembly, greatly improving the performance of the wall.
- Layout changes: Use of the facility’s large assembly hall had declined over time, so a portion of this space has been designated as offices. A kitchen area has been eliminated, with the intention of bringing in a portable kitchen for events as needed. Larger classrooms are provided with improved technology, and open office spaces have been created to better meet the needs of current users. A large physical readiness area with associated locker rooms is included in the program. The unit storage space has been increased with standardized caging sizes and improved circulation in the space.
- Elevator installation: To make the facility ADA compliant, an elevator has been added on the interior of the two-story structure.
- Envelope and energy upgrades: In addition to window replacement, envelope improvements include spray foam insulation added to the interior of masonry walls.
Both projects are expected to surpass basic LEED requirements for efficient energy use, water conservation, and other sustainability measures, putting them on track to earn LEED Silver certification. Both are also being constructed in partnership with LS Black via a design-build process.
LHB’s successful collaboration with national contractors has been recognized by the federal government and contributed to our success in winning new work, upgrading sustainability measures in existing buildings, and delivering efficient, high-impact outcomes for America’s military. ∎
Interested in learning more about LHB’s government work? Click here.
