The design of this new office building in South Reno is rooted in the principle of maximizing passive solar orientation to create a space that is energy-efficient, environmentally responsive, and deeply connected to its site. The building is oriented with its longest façade to the south, capturing abundant winter sunlight while minimizing summer heat gain. Large south-facing windows allow light to flood the interior, while deep overhangs shield occupants from harsh summer sun. The polished concrete floor serves as a thermal mass—absorbing daytime solar energy and releasing it gradually at night—reducing the need for mechanical heating and creating a naturally comfortable indoor environment. Inside, the open floor plan and minimal use of interior partitions enable daylight to penetrate deep into the building. Light-colored walls, ceilings, and reflective surfaces amplify brightness, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Automated daylight sensors further ensure energy efficiency by adjusting artificial light based on natural light levels. Together, these strategies result in a workspace that is bright, healthy, and cost-effective. Sustainable performance is enhanced by blown-in insulation in walls and closed-cell spray foam in the roof assembly, eliminating drafts, air infiltration, and summer radiation. Exterior amenities, including a south-facing hardscape and a north-facing covered porch, extend the workspace outdoors, supporting year-round functionality. The project was not without challenges. Originally, a 2021 geotechnical investigation found groundwater eight feet below grade. However, during excavation in 2023—after two unusually wet winters—the water table had risen to just four feet below grade. Construction was suspended, and the site design reworked to raise the building two feet higher than planned. This required reconfiguring site grading, walkways, and parking, but ultimately enhanced the building’s street presence, giving it a more prominent and monumental quality. From a financial perspective, the project represents a careful balance of design quality and cost control. The $2.1 million construction budget, combined with the $325,000 land cost and $180,000 in furnishings, was maximized through thoughtful material selections. Minimalistic, durable exterior finishes such as cement fiber siding reduced long-term maintenance while reinforcing the building’s modern architectural expression. A simple shed roof form not only created dynamic interior volumes but also underscored the project’s clean, contemporary aesthetic.