Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center

In an ambitious effort to modernize community infrastructure, the City of Albuquerque partnered with ZS2 TechPartner Improve Group to deliver the 5,300 sq.ft. Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center—an essential resource for residents of the historic Martineztown neighborhood. Completed in under a year, this high-profile project underscores how advanced construction technologies can surpass traditional methods in speed, quality, and sustainability.

The center serves as a vital hub for the community, providing a safe and welcoming space for residents of all ages. Designed to accommodate a wide range of activities, it includes areas for senior and children’s programming, shared meals, and group classes.

“This center is a welcoming presence for many in our community,” says Angel Montoya, Recreation Division Manager for the Department of Senior Affairs. “Having somewhere safe and inviting to gather means so much to the people in this area. This is more than a building—it’s a resource that strengthens the neighborhood.”

The Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center features a large multipurpose room that can be divided into two spaces, multiple classrooms, an administrative area, and a pantry for meal service. Thoughtful design ensures the facility meets the diverse needs of the community while prioritizing functionality and accessibility.

Innovation in Construction | Purpose-Driven Design

The project’s accelerated timeline was made possible by ZS2’s panelized construction technology. Using TechPanels™—a 3-in-1 solution combining structural framing, high-performance insulation, and durable magnesium cement sheathing—the team achieved an efficient, high-quality building envelope.

• Enhanced Protection and Resilience
  ZS2’s proprietary magnesium cement technology delivers unparalleled protection. The climate-resilient panels ensure fire resistance, while the inherent properties of magnesium cement safeguard against water intrusion, mold growth, and pests—critical factors for maintaining a healthy, long-lasting facility. These features provide peace of mind for both the city and the community, ensuring the center remains a safe, secure space for years to come.
• Built for Longevity
  TechPanels are designed with durability in mind, creating a structure that will stand the test of time. The Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center is built to serve generations to come, offering a resilient, low-maintenance solution that reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements. This focus on durability aligns with Albuquerque’s long-term vision of sustainable urban investment.
• Operational Cost Savings
  Maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures can be challenging and costly in New Mexico’s hot climate. TechPanels’ superior thermal performance ensures that the building retains cool air while keeping hot air out, reducing the strain on HVAC systems and lowering energy costs. This efficiency not only saves on operating expenses but also enhances occupant comfort year-round, making the center a more inviting and functional space for the community.
• Sustainability with Impact
  ZS2’s environmentally responsible materials contribute to the city’s sustainability goals by reducing the building’s carbon footprint. The prefab construction process also minimized on-site waste and expedited the timeline, demonstrating how innovation can lead to sustainable solutions without compromising on quality or speed. By choosing ZS2, Albuquerque has set a precedent for eco-friendly urban development that prioritizes the planet without sacrificing progress.

A Model for Urban Investment

This project exemplifies Albuquerque’s commitment to creating high-quality infrastructure that enhances residents’ quality of life. Mayor Tim Keller emphasized the importance of such initiatives:

“Our investments in Albuquerque’s multigenerational centers continue to improve the quality of life for residents across our city. The Santa Barbara Martineztown Center reflects our dedication to building modern, resilient spaces that serve our communities for decades to come.”

By leveraging innovative building solutions, the City of Albuquerque, in partnership with Improve Group and ZS2, delivered a sustainable, future-ready facility that meets the diverse needs of a growing urban population. The Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center is a testament to what can be achieved when visionary planning and advanced construction technologies come together to build safer, stronger, and more inclusive communities.