Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) Centennial Plaza

Sparks, NV
4,000 sq ft
Design Assistance though Construction, Administration Services

Collaborative Design Studio teamed up with Parsons Brinkerhoff to design and develop this new public transit center in the City of Sparks.

The design concept reflects the 100-year history of the City and its involvement in developing and supporting the growth of railroads in the west; incorporates a quality of Victorian aesthetic; recalls the elegance of transit and public structures from the 19th century; and achieved a silver level LEED certification, maximizing sustainable design characteristics and performance.

Through a collaborative design process involving input from our design professionals, the client, stakeholders and comments from local citizens, the design concept materialized as a seven-piece radial wedge, fan-shaped in structure covering an arch of 150 degrees reflecting the radial pattern of the historic railway roadhouse. 

High ceilings and materials reflecting the classic roundhouses of the past are used in contrast with contemporary movable transparent walls and other elements that give a welcoming openness to the structure. Careful selection of materials (derived from local sources when possible), energy efficient equipment, sensitive treatment of the site, layout of spaces to capture natural light and ventilation are key elements of the sustainable design approach for this facility.