At The Top - July 2007

SCA Design

Modern Day Visionaries

The belief that projects are a collaborative effort involving the client, architect, builder and other specialists is the foundation of SCA Design. The success of the Las Vegas architectural firm, established in 1995, stems from the “hands-on” approach of founder Sheldon Colen and his business partner Michael Andersen, AIA.

With a skilled staff of 17 who occupy 8,000 square feet of office space in Henderson, Colen and Andersen pride themselves on the one-on-one relationship they build with their clients. “When a client calls us, they get us. We really work hard at listening to their needs and aspirations in order to fulfill their expectations,” said Colen. “The best projects are the ones born of sweat from everyone involved. It is truly a team effort.”

The firm is accomplished in designing residential, retail, hospitality, corporate, institutional and mixed-use developments. They also provide interior design services. Homes range from modest to luxurious, depending on the client’s economic constraints. The true genius in design is evident in a home despite its size. Colen is quick to credit the client. “The real success of a project comes from the client. They know what they want and work closely with us to bring [their ideas] to fruition.”

For SCA Design, creativity also comes in the form of mixed-use developments. For example, The Realm, scheduled to be completed in two years, is a 266,000-square-foot urban village in booming southwest Las Vegas. The project consists of 72,389 square feet of upscale retail/restaurant space with an 11,463-square-foot health club on the first floor. The second, third and fourth floors will be residential units offering three different floor plans. “The Realm is really more about lifestyle living,” said Colen. “We’re creating a space where people can work, live and socialize. A large outdoor civic area with a park-like setting will create a unique atmosphere to satisfy a peaceful mood or allow one to meet and mingle with neighbors. The gym will provide a more social setting.”

SCA Design is also collaborating with the city of Las Vegas to create a Jazz Supper Club – one that does not serve alcohol – on Martin Luther King Drive. The firm is also designing a 95,000-square-foot medical center in east Henderson to bring conveniences back to area residents after the decline of such facilities when the new St. Rose Hospital opened on the west side of town. Coast Health Center will be positioned directly adjacent to Clark County Health District’s satellite office, as well as the Clark County Family Services office.

However grand or simple the project, SCA Design is committed to providing architectural solutions to meet each client’s needs by working closely with everyone involved. After 12 years of business, the evidence is in the satisfaction of their clients.