Tuesday, January 08, 2008

Tempe's Eisendrath House to serve as center for sustainability

The City of Tempe is partnering with several private, non-profit entities to begin full rehabilitation of the historic Eisendrath House property (rendering at left by Mark Vinson). Motley Design Group, headed by architect Bob Graham, is nearly complete with a rehab report and recommendations. It is believed that funding for at least the initial stabilization of the structure is secured, and advocates are optimistic that once "the ball rolls" this spring, funding will continue and the full rehab, according to the U.S. Secretary of the Interior's Standards, will occur.

The goal is to rehab and then occupy the house as the "Carl Hayden Center for Sustainability at the Eisendrath House." Exhibits on water conservation and other forms of sustainable design and construction may be installed, along with interpretive exhibits on the house and the Eisendrath family. Some office, conference, and meeting space, as well as other support functions, would also be provided. The City would be the prime tenant, but the possibility exists that other groups could office and/or meet there.

For more information, contact Mark Vinson, AIA/AICP/NCARB, City of Tempe Architect, at 480-350- 8367.