Business Details
36 Years
experience
Santa Fe Architectural Design Experts
Acton Architecture was founded in 1990 with a commitment to blending innovative design with sustainable practices in residential and commercial projects. Our firm, led by architect Rad Acton, specializes in creating energy-efficient buildings that respect Santa Fe's historic values while embracing modern technology. With over 35 years of experience, we focus on custom home design, historic remodels, and medium-density developments, prioritizing client collaboration throughout every project phase. Our work reflects a deep understanding of New Mexico's cultural and environmental context, integrating renewable energy solutions and timeless aesthetics.We maintain partnerships with local builders to ensure quality execution, as demonstrated in our portfolio spanning contemporary residences to historic renovations. Our philosophy centers on architecture as a cultural interpreter, balancing functional goals with environmental stewardship. This approach has earned us roles on Santa Fe's Historic Districts Review Board and design committees for significant local projects.
Services
Contemporary Architecture
Traditional Architecture
Residential Design
Commercial Projects
Historic Remodel
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of Santa Fe-specific architectural expertise
- Specialized in energy-efficient, culturally responsive design
- Direct collaboration with architect and builder throughout projects
- Recognized leaders in Santa Fe's historic preservation efforts
- Proven track record with complex mixed-use developments
Associations and certifications
- Licensed Architect - State of New Mexico
- American Institute of Architects
Services
Contemporary Architecture
Specializing in contemporary architectural solutions that integrate energy-efficient technologies while maintaining aesthetic harmony with Santa Fe's cultural landscape. Our designs utilize advanced building envelopes and renewable energy systems to create functional, forward-thinking spaces. Projects include net-zero subdivisions and private residences that balance innovation with environmental responsibility.
Historic Remodel
Preserving Santa Fe's architectural legacy through meticulous historic renovations that maintain original character while incorporating modern comforts. Our approach combines traditional building methods with contemporary sustainability standards, ensuring period-accurate restorations meet current energy efficiency requirements. Expertise spans adobe structures and Pueblo Revival residences across multiple historic districts.
Residential Design
Custom residential projects ranging from ground-up constructions to additions and remodels, tailored to client lifestyles and site-specific contexts. We specialize in both contemporary and traditional styles, with particular expertise in work-live spaces and multi-generational homes. Our process emphasizes collaboration between architect, builder, and homeowner throughout all design phases.
Commercial Projects
Design solutions for commercial spaces including mixed-use developments, medical facilities, and institutional buildings. Our portfolio demonstrates expertise in creating functional, code-compliant spaces that enhance community connectivity. Recent projects include net-zero commercial parks and healthcare facilities integrating sustainable design principles.
Sustainable Design
Implementing cutting-edge sustainability practices across all project types, from single-family homes to large-scale developments. Our approach includes passive solar design, renewable energy integration, and materials selection optimized for New Mexico's high-desert climate. We prioritize life-cycle cost analysis to ensure long-term environmental and economic benefits for clients.
People
Rad Acton
Architect
Licensed architect in New Mexico since 1989 with over 35 years of Santa Fe experience. Specializes in sustainable design and historic preservation, serving on multiple city review boards. Combines cultural understanding with technical expertise in energy-efficient building systems.
Questions
What architectural styles does Acton Architecture specialize in?
We specialize in both contemporary and traditional New Mexico architectural styles, including Pueblo Revival and Santa Fe Style, while maintaining expertise in modernist and mixed-use developments.
How does Acton Architecture approach sustainability?
Our sustainability approach integrates energy-efficient building envelopes, renewable energy systems, and climate-responsive design tailored to New Mexico's high-desert environment while maintaining aesthetic integrity.
Can they handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with residential projects ranging from custom homes to multi-family developments, as well as commercial spaces including medical facilities and mixed-use buildings.
What's their experience with historic preservation?
Rad Acton has served on Santa Fe's Historic Districts Review Board and completed numerous landmark renovations, combining traditional methods with modern sustainability upgrades in protected historic districts.
Do they work with local builders?
We maintain long-standing partnerships with several Santa Fe builders, including Dressel Construction and Siteworks Inc., ensuring quality execution through collaborative design-build processes.
