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Business Details
We established Spears Architects in 1981 to specialize in residential, commercial, educational, tribal, urban, and historic preservation projects. Our team, led by principals James Horn, AIA, and Beverley Spears, FAIA, consists of architects, designers, and skilled graduates who have collaborated for over a decade. We prioritize responsiveness to client needs, rigorous budget management, and timely contract fulfillment. By fostering collaborative partnerships, we ensure projects reflect both our design expertise and clients' unique visions. Recognized as New Mexico Firm of the Year, we uphold a legacy of excellence spanning decades. Our experience with institutional projects equips us to navigate budget constraints, complex programming, and scheduling challenges.

We excel in serving diverse communities, from residential clients to museums, with sensitivity to their distinct requirements. Since 1992, we have pioneered straw bale construction, contributing to industry standards through the New Mexico Straw Bale Construction Association. Our commitment to sustainability drives innovative use of materials like adobe, Rastra, and recycled composites. We integrate holistic green building practices, including water conservation and energy-efficient systems, tailored to arid climates. Through LEED certification and USGBC involvement, we deliver health-conscious, environmentally responsible spaces that harmonize with their surroundings.
Highlights and features
  • We have over 40 years of architectural experience since our founding in 1981.
  • Our firm pioneered straw bale construction in New Mexico since 1992.
  • We hold LEED certification and actively contribute to USGBC initiatives.
  • Our team has collaborated for over a decade, ensuring consistent expertise.
  • We were honored as New Mexico Firm of the Year for sustained excellence.
Services
Commercial Facility Design
We design functional, sustainable commercial spaces tailored to client operational needs. Our expertise addresses budget constraints, complex programming, and scheduling challenges while prioritizing energy efficiency and material innovation. Clients benefit from our collaborative approach, which ensures facilities align with organizational goals and environmental responsibilities.
Historic Preservation
Our restoration services maintain historical integrity while adapting structures for modern use. We conduct thorough documentation, surveys, and adaptive reuse planning to preserve cultural significance. Clients receive technically rigorous solutions that balance heritage conservation with contemporary functionality and sustainability standards.
LEED Certification
We guide projects through the LEED certification process, implementing water conservation, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials. This service ensures compliance with rigorous environmental standards while creating healthier indoor environments. Clients benefit from our proven track record in achieving certification for diverse building types.
Residential Design
We create health-promoting residential spaces using natural materials like adobe and straw bale. Our designs emphasize daylighting, outdoor connections, and energy conservation. Clients receive personalized solutions that enhance occupant well-being while respecting environmental contexts and budgetary requirements.
Urban Design
Our urban and landscape architecture services integrate sites with their environmental contexts through master planning and site analysis. We prioritize community needs, ecological sensitivity, and long-term functionality. Clients benefit from holistic designs that create cohesive, sustainable urban spaces that evolve with changing requirements.