Celebrating 125 Years: Forging the Greatest Generation (1929-1948)

Original Entry, Boise Gallery of Art (1936)

Unlike many cities hard hit in the Depression, Boise held steady and continued to grow.  During the late 1930s the Basque migration to Idaho and Utah was in full swing.  Gowen Field was a training facility during WW II and further stimulated valley growth.  Charles V. “Ike” Wayland, son of the senior Wayland, joined the firm in 1929 and the practice centered on hospital, school, financial, commercial, and public projects.  In 1938 James Fennell returned to California.  



Art Deco Idaho Power Building (1932) was originally white; this is c.1990 after updates.

Notable projects of this period include the original Idaho Power Building (1932) and the original Boise Gallery of Art, now BAM (1936), buildings for the new Boise Junior College starting in 1940, the Veterans’ Home, Department of Highways and Law Enforcement Building and architectural design assistance for the Capitol Boulevard and Payette River (McCall highway) Bridges.  The firm was associate architect for the Ada County Courthouse (1938), and in 1939 completed a small project for Morrison Knudson, forging a relationship that lasted over 50 years.  The downtown Eddie’s Bakery, known to generations of Idaho second-graders, was built in 1942 at a cost of $18,342.  –

 

CSHQA Celebrates 125 Years: Establishing Boise 1889 - 1928

Idanha Hotel, Boise, ID, W.S. Campbell drawing on linen

CSHQA is 125 this year!  Founded by a Scotsman in the Idaho Territory, CSHQA has evolved and grown, persevered and transformed from a one-man office to a national firm with regional resources serving 50 states and two provinces.  Over the next few weeks, we will post our story in multiple parts.  Part I:

1889 marked Idaho’s last year as a territory, the establishment of the University of Idaho in Moscow, and the arrival by train of William S. Campbell, Architect, of Edinburgh, Scotland in the capital city of Boise.  Early commissions for W.S. Campbell, Architects were residential, commercial and school projects.  In 1900 Charles W. Wayland, a Bostonian who studied architectural art and science, and gained practical experience as a draftsman in Duluth, Minnesota joined the firm. Campbell & Wayland made their partnership official and carried on the practice until 1903 when Campbell returned to his native Scotland. Wayland took over and in 1904 James Fennel, a member of the first class to graduate from California’s original school of architecture (John Hopkins Institution of Art and Architecture), became Wayland’s partner and the firm became known as Wayland and Fennel, Architects.  Spurred on by the arrival of irrigation in 1902, the valley prospered and steadily grew.

Notable buildings by W.S. Campbell, C.W. Wayland, and J.A. Fennel include:
Sonna Building 3-story addition, 910 Main Street (1891)
Telephone Building, 609 Main Street (1899)
Idanha Hotel, 928 Main Street (Opened New Year’s Day 1901)
“Granite Hall” R. M. Davidson residence, 1205 Warm Springs Ave. (1901)
Federal Building (Borah Station Post Office), 8^th & Idaho (1902)
Saint Alphonsus Hospital, 5^th & State Streets (c. 1903)
Central Fire Station, 200 N 6^th Street (1903)
Albion Normal (teaching) School (1907)
Mary McCarty Building, 9^th & Idaho (1909)
Twin Falls (1908) and Baker City (1909) Carnegie Libraries
Idaho Statesman Building, 601 Main Street (1910)
Charles and Margaret Davidson residence, 945 Warms Springs Ave (1916)
Frank Parsons and Anna Moore Parsons (daughter of C.W. Moore) residence, 1127 Warm Springs Ave (1925)
Strahorn Hall, College of Idaho (1925)
El Korah Shrine Temple, 118 W Idaho St (1928)
Early buildings for St. Luke’s Hospital (early 20’s)

Next:  Forging the Greatest Generation 1929 – 1948

Merging Demographics - Millennials and Baby Boomers Shaping the Housing Market



Mixed-use, multifamily development proposed by Sawtooth Development Group on Main between Grove and 10^th Streets, Boise, Idaho

Multifamily is the Hot News in Downtown Boise

As the economy picks up, money is coming back into development and construction, including multi-family.  New projects are getting launched, delayed projects are getting a second shot, and several developments are in the works in downtown and its periphery:

10^th and Grove – New construction with condominiums over parking [CSHQA]

10^th and Main (former Alden Building) – Four-floor redevelopment into mixed-use [CSHQA]

CC Anderson Building – Urban mixed-use / apartments with amenities attractive to Millennials [CSHQA]

9^th and River – Proposed CCDC multi-family development

The Depot Lofts – New apartments overlooking Capitol Blvd entry into the City / under construction

The Owyhee Plaza – Renovation of an aging hotel into dynamic mixed-use / under construction

What’s driving this growth?

Two of the largest demographic groups in the nation’s history are the bookends to the current market for housing:  Millennials, born after 1980, and Baby Boomers, born from 1946 to about 1964.  One might think the housing preferences of these groups would be quite different, but in fact they are merging in several areas.

A 2013 survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors found that an ever growing number of Americans want to live in neighborhoods that are walkable and contain a mix of uses such as shops and restaurants – AND they are willing to pay a premium to do so, plus trade down the size of their house and yard. 

Millennials are choosing neighborhoods that are more urban and dense than those they likely grew up in.  Eighty-million Millennials account for over 35% of the US workforce.  Most are not financially ready or able to buy a single family home and are postponing purchasing in favor of renting.  This allows them mobility and flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances as they finish their education and start their working lives. 

 

The ‘city as living room’ is key to many Millennials’ housing choices.  The nearby coffee house, bookstore or park are their community living rooms.  Developers in some cities are seeing a profitable niche in tiny units, which can command higher prices per square foot than conventional studio apartments, especially if they come with amenities aimed at tech-savvy 20-somethings.  Millennials are proving willing to accept small and micro-living units in exchange for immediate access to transit lines, grocery stores, parking for cars and bikes, fitness centers, garden plots and even dog and cat wash areas!

Sustainability is a significant value for people of all ages, and particularly for Millennials who were raised with an awareness of global climate change and stewardship of our planet.  Contemporary architecture, large windows, high-performance mechanical systems, thermal barriers and energy efficient appliances are part of the package.

At the same time, Boomers nearing retirement are looking to downsize and be nearer to services, shopping and healthcare.  Ten-thousand baby boomers turn 65 every day.  Their preferences include:

•        Single-level living, from patio homes to high rises with universal design principles that accommodate future needs and physical limitations

•        A house that’s not too big

•        Energy-efficient and low-maintenance homes that lower their monthly costs and fix-it chores

•        Healthy indoor air

•        Convenience and walkability, privacy from neighbors, and travel by car

Cities are also interested in multi-family development.  Excerpts from the DRAFT Boise Multi-Family Development Standards:

•        Parcels adjacent to an arterial roadway with existing or planned transit service shall be eligible for higher maximum densities by Conditional Use Permit.

•        Parking credits and reductions for multi-family development may be granted for the following project types and amenities:  Transit-Supportive Development, Vertical Mixed-Use Development, Affordable Housing, Podium or Structured Parking, Enclosed and Secure Bicycle Parking.

•        The minimum parking required shall be reduced by ten percent if fully enclosed, covered, secure bicycle parking is provided that exceeds the requirements.

 

This mix of projects in the works, plus new projects yet to be launched, will draw many new residents into downtown Boise, adding to the energy and vibrancy of our city.  –



Creativity+Business Strategy = New Development in Downtown Boise

 

CSHQA rendering of proposed 9th & Main multi-family development

The Capitol City Development Corporation [CCDC] recently received six development proposals for a downtown site in Boise, Idaho.  Located in the River Myrtle-Old Boise Renewal District, a neighborhood that includes the Boise Public Library, Ballet Idaho, Boise Contemporary Theater, numerous brew pubs, restaurants and shops, cinemas and hotels, and two charter schools, the site offers both urban energy and neighborhood appeal.  Writer Sven Berg of the Idaho Statesman wrote about selection process:  http://bit.ly/1cWbJr5

CCDC issued an invitation for development teams to submit proposals for development of the 1.2 acre site.  In addition to strong financing and quick construction, their request specified pedestrian friendly design, active mixed-use, contextual design and sustainability elements. Perhaps most important, the CCDC is seeking a catalyst, a development that best leverages the neighborhood assets, stimulates pedestrian activity and attracts further development.

CSHQA partnered with Clark Development, Erstad Architects and a team of financial partners and consultants to design and build a mixed-use, multi-family development with street level shopping and dining, a roof top garden and plaza, parking for 300 vehicles, and 150 market rate apartments in a mix of studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom configurations. The main entry along River Street is set back from the site envelop to help relieve the massing effect of the seven-story structure, and create a walkable space and welcoming entry. 

More details about the proposals can be found here.  The Clark Team is featured in the first five pages.

http://bit.ly/1g3qGX1 –

   

Corner of 9th & River at dusk.



Rooftop garden introduces trees and natural elements, creating a peaceful space for residents.



A (Very Brief) Tour of 125 Years of CSHQA Architecture

The 2014 Calendars are in the mail! 



Celebrating a major milestone in 2014

For those who know them, they are a much anticipated annual tradition.  This year is a little different as 2014 marks the 125th birthday of CSHQA!

Six projects offer a brief tribute to our founders and predecessors, plus a look into the future of design.  From a one-man practice in Idaho Territory to 90+ professionals in six Western states, and from the turreted and storied Idanaha Hotel to the sleek lines of CSHQA Boise, CSHQA designs new and renovated buildings to be lived in, worked in, played in.  Simply... we design spaces for people.

The Idanha Hotel (1900) • Boise, ID

The Idanha was designed by CSHQA's founder William S. Campbell in the French Chateau style, visible in its spires and turrets as well as its notched roofline. The building is architecturally unusual in Boise and is one of the most storied buildings in the city. Three presidents have stayed there (Theodore Roosevelt, Taft and Harrison) and actress Ethel Barrymore. Singer Roger Miller composed the American classic "King of the Road" while staying at the Idanha.

Central Fire Station (1903,1987) • Boise, ID

The Central Fire Station is listed on the National Historic Register. Originally designed by William Stewart Campbell (the founder of CSHQA), it was renovated by CSHQA for our company offices in1986 using the original construction documents. CSHQA received the 1987 Orchid Award from the Idaho Historic Preservation Council for this project.

Boise State University Pavilion (1982) • Boise, ID

Seating 12,000 and featuring numerous amenities, the BSU Pavilion is a regular stop for major attractions and regional sporting events. A true multipurpose facility, the 265,000-sf Pavilion houses the main arena, physical training and players locker rooms, a jogging track on the mezzanine level, student intramural athletic areas, and offices. In the arena a multiple-control lighting system allows selective use of tiered seating.

Boise Art Museum (1998, 2007) • Boise, ID

BAM has been a distinctive Boise landmark for many years. The museum retained CSHQA to develop plans and visual information for a capital campaign outlining their immediate expansion needs and a master plan for future needs.  The expansion added 13,300-sf and converted 3,325-ft of existing space to new uses. This enhanced the museum’s exhibition and educational services and provided administrative and storage space for new activities as well as displayed art collections. CSHQA’s 2007 redesign included an art storage vault and climate control equipment to ensure the appropriate strict levels of air filtration, temperature and relative humidity needed to preserve sensitive works of art.

CSHQA Boise Office (2013) • Boise, ID

CSHQA renovated a 19,745-sf, 1950s, brick and CMU warehouse property into a modern, state-of-the-art space. Significant sustainable design elements include: radiant slab heating and cooling connected to city geothermal system, extensive daylight harvesting, automated lighting and dimming systems, 27 different LED fixture types, sustainable landscaping and permeable paver storm water management, low-use water fixtures, bike storage and shower/locker facilities, and a highly energy efficient building envelope. The project is LEED registered with the goal of achieving LEED platinum.

Idaho State Capitol Building Historic Renovation (2009) • Boise, ID

After a century of use, neglect and countless modifications which eroded the historical character of the building, CSHQA brought the 200,000-sf building back to its former grandeur by restoring the historical elements of the building, preserving the integrity of the existing materials and rehabilitating the spaces for contemporary uses. Exterior, interior and site work stabilized the building and its systems, and infrastructure was upgraded addressing life safety and accessibility. The former dark and dreary basement was transformed into a light-filled space now serving as the primary public entrance. The project connects the Capitol to two, new 50,000-sf underground wings which complement the original building while providing additional office and meeting space for legislators, staff, and citizens without changing the overall appearance of the Capitol from the street. This was the largest non-highway public works endeavor in state history.

–

8 Very Cool Things about CSHQA Boise



CSHQA Boise Entry and Front Desk

We've settled in, learned the ropes and nearly dialed in the control systems for heating, lighting, ventilation and even the alarm system. What an amazing space of sophisticated and sustainable design and brilliant engineering. Here’s a quick tour of my favorites:

1. Cool foyer.
2. All of our work stations are on one floor in a big, open, collaborative space. Makes you feel truly connected and part of the energy.

3. Our ‘deli’ is bright and sunny and a nice place to eat lunch or take some time away. Come spring the patio will be extra nice.

4. The Big Kahuna – CSHQA Conference Room. It’s the largest of 5 meeting spaces.

5. Cool, filtered water that tastes great! A counter shows how many plastic bottles we have saved from a landfill.

6. Lavender plants – still blooming in November! Along the western wall of the access ramp.

7. Green and then some! This is one of five greens to be found on the northern interior wall. It's our own custom color. 2b is shorthand for Second & Broad Streets.

8. My total geek out room – the Mechanical Room. These five pumps help circulate glycol through 4.6 miles of pex under the concrete slab floor to warm or cool our space.

Thank You to Our Partners on 200 Broad St.

Almost one year ago to the day (9.27.12) Kent Hanway invited the CSHQA staff to meet at an old warehouse about three blocks east of our then current location. It wasn’t much to look at – concrete floors, warehouse doors and a few odd walls, pink insulation and bare light bulbs hanging from the ceiling, and concrete columns encased in banged-up bumpers. He explained the decision to make this space our future office and told us “This is our opportunity to transform a space and show what we can accomplish with our skills and creativity.  It's up to us.”

Today we still have concrete floors and columns, but WOW! 2│b has come a long way!  As we finish the final touches, we have many people to thank.  This very cool, very sustainable office is the result of a lot of hard work by CSHQA designers and staff, plus our construction and vendor partners led by general contractor Jordan-Wilcomb Construction, Inc. Thank you all! –