Rendering courtesy of the University of New Mexico

A rendering of the southwest approach to the Center for Collaborative Arts & Technology (CCAT) at the University of New Mexico.

The University of New Mexico broke ground on Oct. 15, 2024, for its Center for Collaborative Arts & Technology (CCAT).

Designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R), the 60,000 sq.-ft. facility for the UNM College of Fine Arts (CFA) will serve as a central hub for innovation, creativity and collaboration. Completion is expected in the fall of 2026.

Bradbury Stamm Construction of Albuquerque is the project contractor.

"The university has always been both a catalyst for and a pathway to New Mexico's vibrant artistic culture," said UNM President Garnett S. Stokes. "This unique facility will enrich our relationships with our state's cultural communities and business sector partners to spur creative and economic growth that is fundamental to the mission of UNM and vital to the growth of the state of New Mexico."

Rendering courtesy of the University of New Mexico

Located on the northeast corner of Stanford Drive and Central Avenue in the parking lot by Johnson Field — a major corridor and leg of the historic U.S. Route 66, the facility will act as a new arts gateway into the university.

"The building is organized around a super lobby at the second level, with elevated panoramic views of Route 66 and the Sandia Mountains," DS+R Partner Benjamin Gilmartin said. "This horizontal slice in the building's materiality welcomes visitors into the heart of the building while creating space for teaching, performance, exhibitions and research."

With multiple spaces, rehearsal rooms, a 600-seat multi-purpose performance hall and dynamic collaborative workspaces, CCAT aligns with the College of Fine Arts' Framework Plan and the vision of a space where ideas flow freely across disciplines, nurturing a critical and creative workforce. The $82.1 million facility is funded by general obligation bonds approved by New Mexico's voters in 2022, along with funding from institutional bonds.

"CCAT will impact students, staff and faculty at UNM in many profound ways," said Michael Hix, chair of the Department of Music. "Adding a new state-of-the-art performance venue/concert hall will allow faculty and staff to fulfill our educational goals by providing students with the performance experiences they deserve. The space will promote even greater innovation and collaboration between faculty and students throughout the College of Fine Arts."

Once complete, CCAT is expected to energize Central Avenue with its lively artistic presence and be a point of pride for the entire UNM community. Students, staff, faculty and visitors can anticipate a space where artistic talents are cultivated and celebrated, setting the stage for the next generation of groundbreaking works and creative possibilities.

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