SLA Architects served as the Designer of Record for the newest Safety Rest Area opened by TxDOT. Located on Interstate Highway 10 in Culberson County near Van Horn, Texas, this Safety Rest Area offers a unique architectural experience blending desert landscape and starlit skies. Spanning both sides of the highway, each site features a main pavilion building with restrooms and exhibit space, a stand-alone restroom facility, covered play area, and multiple picnic arbors.
The design emphasizes elevation and perspective, guiding visitors toward stunning views of Guadalupe Peak and the surrounding desert. The main lobby wall is angled toward the mountain views to lead visitors to an open-air observation deck that elevates above the desert floor to the vast views. Here, visitors can experience the arid environment from new heights. Lobby materials include durable terrazzo flooring to mimic the desert sand, clear finished maple wood slat ceiling, plaster-finished walls like the adobe huts that once stood nearby, and exposed steel structure.
The facility aims to combat road weariness and promote safety by offering educational exhibits on local culture and history. Interactive activities within the facility educate visitors on the surrounding area while the covered playground and nature trail allow visitors to stretch their legs and take in the views. Vending services are also provided within the facilities.
The facilities also aim to ensure safety of visitors while on site. Amenities such as storm shelters, DPS offices, and video surveillance are provided to help visitors feel safe and secure while visiting. Dark sky compliant fixtures fully light the site for safety at night while still preserving the natural habitat and migration of nocturnal wildlife.
