Missile Defense Agency Headquarters
Redstone Arsenal, AL

HSMM is preparing a design/build Request for Proposal (RFP) for the construction of the Von Braun Complex Phase III at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. Phase III will provide space for the location and re-location of staff of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) as part of BRAC 2005.  MDA required 750,000 square feet of new office space, including SCIF’s and other highly secure areas, to be built on an existing site containing two existing buildings. The original master plan for the site anticipated a building of approximately 250,000 square feet. HSMM was tasked with developing a new master plan to accommodate MDA’s needs while preserving the formative integrity of the original plan.

The initial step in the development of the RFP was a design charrette led by HSMM and held in Huntsville, Alabama.  Key to the success of the charrette was the development of alternative master plans.  A master planning workshop was held to present and discuss possible variations suitable to the site. The HSMM architectural team offered 6 viable options and, through discussions with the client, users and DPW, three were chosen for further development.

The HSMM team developed the initial elevation studies as well as preliminary floor plans and presented these along with concept fly-overs. Additional sessions included a LEED workshop, documentation and cost estimating and open workshops.  HSMM’s team of architects and engineers used the open workshops as design sessions where the elevations and floor plans were further developed.  These workshops were open to all participants of the charrette, and everyone was encouraged to observe, comment, or participate.

Phase III of the Von Braun Complex includes administrative spaces with SCIF, secure data centers and secure office space; a cafeteria/conferencing/fitness center with an auditorium; and a central energy plant including generators to provide redundant power and Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) for key systems.