Images Salon

Images Salon & Day Spa had occupied an outdated space in downtown Chandler for years. When they decided to move to a new location, they asked MIAA to design the new space that would represent a more contemporary image and help bring in new clients.

The new salon is located in a recently renovated former bank building (also by MIAA) and takes advantage of the good condition of the existing structure by exposing the roof structure and creating a lofty feel. The project was built on a limited budget and the simply constructed hair stations and reception desk are built in such a way that they could be removed and relocated to another space if need be. The entire space is accented by one very bright wall that is coordinated with the salons logo. The space features a waiting area with retail, 6 hair stations, shampoo area, nail tech area and 3 spa rooms.

Photo credit: Bill Timmerman

The Bob & Renee Parsons Leadership Center for Girls and Women at Camp South Mountain

The current structures that occupy Camp South Mountain are insufficient for the goals of the Girl Scouts Arizona Cactus-Pine Council (GSACPC). The program that has been developed increases the number of buildings, outdoor recreation and gathering spaces to support all the proposed activities.

The existing 14.5 acre camp occupies a stunning site with connections and views to South Mountain as well as views out towards downtown Phoenix. Most of the structures were built without comprehensive planning and fail to take advantage of the potential connections between each other, the Sonoran Desert landscape and the wonderful views offered. In addition, many of the structures are in poor condition.

The proposed facilities will greatly increase lodging, activity and training space on the site. A new major gathering space large enough to allow for up to 500 seated people will allow for Council-wide functions. A new GSACPC Museum and Council Shop will also provide a consolidated destination for all those interested or involved with the Girls Scouts in the Valley. Fifteen new, ten bed sleeping rooms with air-conditioning and heat will provide great flexibility for year round use for a variety of visitors. In all approximately 37,900 s.f. of new and renovated buildings area will be created. All new buildings, site elements and landscaping will seek to be a symbol of pride for the Girl Scouts and, in keeping with the Girl Scouts values, will be built in a sustainable manner.

In addition to the new building elements, new major site amenities will include an archery range, large amphitheater and fire rings, splash pad, climbing tower, low ropes course, tent sites, zip line, labyrinth and a large multi-purpose field.

Photo Credit: Bill Timmerman / Matt Winquist

Chandler Office Building Renovation & Addition

The Chandler Office Building is a renovation and addition to a former bank building in the heart of Chandler’s historic downtown square. The two-story office addition compliments the renovation of the existing one-story retail space building. The developer, Desert Viking Companies, Inc. and Marlene Imirzian & Associates worked closely with the City of Chandler to produce a design that is both in keeping with Chandler’s vision for the historic square while also clearly differentiating between the old and the new. New features of clerestory windows, large glass garage doors and trellises contribute to bring light further into the building and strengthen the connection with outdoors.