Built in 1934 as a school for girls and later transformed into a restaurant and lodge, El Chorro Lodge has a long history as one of the Valley of the Sun’s favorite landmarks. The project team made it a top priority to keep El Chorro’s rich history and classic charm while updating the facilities to today’s technology and energy efficiencies. Materials were salvaged, doors and windows were updated to more efficient standards, and the tops of the buildings now capture solar energy. El Chorro Lodge now has a total of 4800 SF of dining and bar space, 7500 SF of patio space, 13 fireplaces, three fire pits, indoor dining that seats 150, exterior patio seating for 200, a 4600 SF Even Pavilion that can accommodate up to 250 with an adjacent lawn area, a vegetable and herb garden, and a bocce lawn off the old Classroom Bar. Green Ideas integrated several sustainable strategies into the design, development and construction of the project allowing the Lodge to earn LEED Gold level certification.
