New Chisos Mountains Lodge & Basin Water System Rehabilitation
The Chisos Mountains Lodge, constructed in 1964 as part of the Mission 66 program, is the only dining facility and Lodge within the 800,000-acre Big Bend National Park. Over time, the structure has experienced significant foundation movement due to underlying bentonite clay soils, resulting in compromised structural integrity and concerns related to safety, public health, and long-term serviceability.
ARG led a comprehensive evaluation to assess options for repair, rehabilitation, expansion, and full replacement of the existing facility. Following a Value Analysis, NPS selected replacement of the lodge as the preferred alternative. The new facility is designed to enhance the visitor arrival experience, expand dining and retail functions, and increase opportunities for outdoor interpretation within this remote and highly sensitive landscape. ARG led the multidisciplinary team from schematic design through construction documents, for a new lodge that reinterprets Mission 66 design principles in a contemporary context. The building is carefully integrated into its surroundings, emphasizing compatibility with the natural landscape using durable, regionally appropriate materials, simple forms, and restrained detailing. Interior spaces are organized to prioritize openness and connectivity to the outdoors, with expansive glazing oriented toward key views and natural features
Resiliency and sustainability were central to the design approach. The project incorporates passive solar orientation to optimize photovoltaic performance, battery storage to support energy independence, and a rainwater capture system to reduce reliance on limited water resources. These strategies, along with high-performance building systems, support a targeted LEED Silver certification. The design also addresses natural resource stewardship, including bird-safe glazing and the exclusive use of native plant species in site landscaping. Accessibility and visitor experience were key drivers of the site design.
A new accessible, serpentine pathway connects the lower parking area to the lodge, incorporating interpretive overlooks that engage visitors with the surrounding landscape. A critical component of the project involved improvements to the Chisos Basin water infrastructure. The Basin’s water source, Oak Spring, is located across mountainous terrain, and currently features a complex and aging delivery system. Led by Kleinfelder for the water component design, the team evaluated and designed upgrades to the spring collection infrastructure, treatment, and pumping systems; assessed and recommended repairs to miles of transmission pipeline; and developed improvements to water storage and distribution systems serving the Basin’s facilities and campgrounds. These upgrades are essential to ensuring reliable, safe water service for visitors and park operations.
