For decades, Summit Construction in Albuquerque has been headquartered in the George A. Rutherford General Contractors Office Building. This striking office building with its quartzite façade is a unique expression of New Mexico Mid Century Modern design. Right now, it is in danger of being demolished. Let’s learn more about this AIA Albuquerque award-winning building’s history, design and materials, as well as the threat that is facing it today.
The History of the George A. Rutherford General Contractors Office Building
The George A. Rutherford General Contractors Office Building at 900 Hazeldine SE was designed by architect Don Stevens, the “S” in SMPC Architects, one of New Mexico’s most prominent Mid Century Modern firms. SMPC was founded by George Ferguson in 1944, and still exists today. During the mid century, it was called Steven, Malory and Pearl.
When the building was completed in 1964, it became the headquarters for the George A. Rutherford Construction Company. The employees of that company went on to create Summit Construction in 1975, which has worked out of the building ever since.
Materials and Design
The exterior of the George A. Rutherford Building features an eye-catching blend of colours and textures. The 20-foot façade is made of quartzite, showcasing an impressive range of natural hues including grey, green, turquoise and red.
The rough shapes of the colorful quartzite stones contrast with the smooth circles of the custom gold-painted screen on the exterior. This artistic effect was created by cutting old asbestos drain pipes of different diameters. Assembling them together creates a screen that looks like it is made up of larger and smaller hollow “bubbles” of metal.
The same materials and textures present on the exterior of the building can be found inside. Whereas many office buildings feel cold and sterile, the textures and colors of the quartzite and custom screen make the George A. Rutherford Building feel grounded, welcoming, and homey.
The interior colors echo those found on the building’s facade. The wall in the photo above mimics the gold paint on the exterior screen, while the kitchen evokes the green hues of the quartzite.
Help Save the George A. Rutherford General Contractors Office Building
There is currently an NMDOT proposal to make way for a frontage road as part of the I-25 S-Curve project. If this proposal goes through, the George A. Rutherford Building will be demolished to put in the road.
To save this MCM office building, we need to make our voices heard. You can sign up for more information at the I-25 S-Curve Study site. Tell NMDOT you don’t want them to demolish the George A. Rutherford Building by emailing them at study@i25scurve.com, or calling their hotline at 505-600-2232. This building was featured in 2026’s ABQ Mid Mod Home tour. Its historical significance and architectural beauty deserve to be preserved for current and future generations.
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