Bexar County Mission Reach Building

San Antonio, Texas

Sited on 3.6 acres along the restored banks of the San Antonio River, the Public Works Building offers stunning views of the city as well as a connection to the Mission Reach section of the River Walk. Drawing on its proximity to downtown, the World Heritage Mission Sites, and major public open spaces, this civic building was conceptualized as a “lantern on the river” that would honor the city’s history and vision for the future.

Public spaces within the building, including the lobby and board room, are centrally located on the ground floor and reveal panoramic views of the river and the city beyond. An exterior patio overlooking the river provides a venue for social gatherings and special events. Flanking the central shared conference and amenity areas, private workspaces accommodate the needs of current employees while allowing for future growth. Throughout the building, the motif of an abstracted road map is employed in the design of shade canopies, perforated screens, murals, and decorative elements to affirm the mission of the Public Works Department.

With its sensitive location along the river, low-impact and sustainable design measures help protect this valuable urban ecosystem. Thoughtful choices in lighting, glazing, and shading of western-facing windows ensure energy efficiency. Rain gardens filter run-off before it enters the waterway, native planting and locally sourced limestone ground the development within the landscape, and walkways connect the community to the nature trails along the San Antonio River.