Business Details
14 Years
experience
Trusted Architects in Albuquerque, NM | McCLAIN + YU
Founded in 2012, McClain + Yu Architecture & Design is a woman- and minority-owned architectural firm based in Albuquerque, NM, specializing in educational and institutional projects. Our practice is guided by the principles of durability, feasibility, and beauty, with a commitment to creating inspiring environments that transform how clients envision their futures. With a focus on iterative design processes and transparent communication, we prioritize alignment with stakeholders early in projects to ensure successful execution. Our team brings extensive experience from nationally recognized organizations, delivering award-winning designs that blend historical context with modern innovation.Recognized by the American Institute of Architects and US Green Building Council, we emphasize sustainability through LEED-certified projects and cutting-edge design solutions. Our services span architectural design, renovations, master planning, and specialized construction analysis, serving clients across New Mexico and beyond. By integrating traditional architectural values with contemporary performance-driven methods, we create spaces that honor cultural heritage while meeting 21st-century demands. Our accolades, including AIA awards and LEED Silver certifications, reflect our dedication to excellence in both design and community impact.
Services
Architectural Design
Renovations
Adaptive Reuse
Cladding Design
Master Planning
LEED Certification
3D Visualization
Design-Build
Life Cycle Analysis
RFP Advising
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We specialize in educational and institutional architecture with 12+ years of focused experience
- Our iterative design process ensures alignment with stakeholder needs from project inception
- Award-winning firm with multiple AIA honors for innovative architectural solutions
- LEED-certified professionals delivering sustainable, energy-efficient building systems
- Expertise in historic preservation and adaptive reuse of culturally significant structures
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
- US Green Building Council
- Associated General Contractors of America
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design services create functional, aesthetically compelling spaces tailored to institutional needs. We specialize in educational facilities, healthcare centers, and civic buildings that balance modern functionality with contextual sensitivity. Our approach integrates sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems while maintaining rigorous attention to spatial quality and user experience. Each project benefits from our iterative design process that ensures alignment with client goals and community needs.
Renovations
We transform existing structures through thoughtful renovations that preserve architectural heritage while meeting contemporary standards. Our expertise includes updating historic buildings with modern systems without compromising original design intent. We address structural challenges while enhancing functionality, accessibility, and energy performance across educational, healthcare, and government facilities.
Adaptive Reuse
Our adaptive reuse solutions convert underutilized buildings into vibrant, purpose-driven spaces. We specialize in transforming historic structures into modern educational and institutional facilities while maintaining their cultural significance. This approach combines preservation techniques with innovative design to create sustainable, code-compliant environments that serve evolving community needs.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive master plans that guide long-term development of educational and institutional campuses. Our approach considers spatial relationships, circulation patterns, and sustainability goals while respecting existing architectural character. We create phased implementation strategies that balance immediate needs with future growth across K-12 schools, colleges, and healthcare facilities.
LEED Certification
We deliver LEED-certified projects that meet rigorous sustainability standards while maintaining architectural excellence. Our expertise includes energy modeling, material selection, and systems integration to achieve environmental goals without compromising design quality. We guide clients through the certification process for educational, healthcare, and government buildings seeking LEED Silver or higher ratings.
People
Raimund McClain
Partner
Co-founder with extensive institutional architecture experience, specializing in educational facilities. Brings national design expertise to M+Y's projects while maintaining deep commitment to New Mexico communities.
Kristina Yu
Partner
Co-founder and accomplished architect with background in award-winning institutional projects. Focuses on integrating sustainable practices with culturally responsive design solutions for educational and healthcare facilities across the Southwest.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in educational and institutional architecture, including new construction, renovations, adaptive reuse, master planning, and LEED-certified projects for schools, universities, and healthcare facilities.
Do you work on historic preservation projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience in historic preservation and adaptive reuse, particularly with educational and civic buildings. Our approach maintains architectural integrity while implementing modern systems and sustainability standards.
Are you LEED-certified architects?
Yes, our firm includes LEED-certified professionals who have delivered multiple LEED Silver-rated projects, focusing on sustainable design solutions for educational and institutional clients.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Albuquerque, NM, we serve clients across New Mexico and the Southwest region, with completed projects in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Clovis, Portales, and Roswell.
How do you approach institutional design projects?
We use an iterative design process emphasizing early stakeholder alignment, transparency, and technical rigor. Our approach balances durability, feasibility, and beauty to create functional spaces that meet institutional needs.
What awards have you received for your work?
We've received multiple AIA awards, including the 2023 AIA New Mexico Firm of the Year, along with LEED certifications and recognition from the US Green Building Council for sustainable design excellence.
