Chaparral Science Hall

What were the circumstances of receiving the commission for this project?

As with the majority of California State University work, a public RFP is issued and it is open for all qualified teams to submit. Typically, this includes approximately 20-30 firms for this building type. We were shortlisted for an interview and subsequently received the commission.

Can you describe your design process for the building?

The diversification of circulation and the program offered multiple options for form, massing, and composition. A series of schemes were selectively cross-bred to exploit the siting of the building and views of the botanical gardens, and to stimulate collaboration among faculty, researchers and students. The complex encompasses a four-story outdoor lobby and plaza and a three-level outdoor public staircase, which facilitate circulation to the teaching labs located on the upper floors, serve to orient visitors, and promote social interaction.Through our interactive design process, we held charettes working closely with the Dean and faculty members to understand their needs and vision. Collaboration among teaching staff, researchers and students was tantamount to fitting all the program components in the building. In the final scheme, the building is comprised of two distinctive clusters that separate the research from teaching facilities. Faculty offices link the two clusters together, creating communal and collaborative space. A continuous outdoor covered walkway enables pedestrian circulation around the facility while visually connecting the Science Complex and the campus.

How does the building relate to contemporary design trends, be it sustainability, technology, etc.?

Each one of our projects is unique in its context, program and complexity. We are often intrigued by projects that are program intensive and present opportunities to solve issues on multiple levels. Most of our projects are for institutional clients and are located in urban or campus settings. Chaparral Science Hall encompasses all of the aforementioned ideas - it has a complex program and is sited on a campus for an institutional project.

How does the building relate to contemporary architectural trends, be it sustainability, technology, etc.?

The design of Chaparral Hall ties closely to academic environments increasingly wanting collaborative and interactive spaces. Not only does the design provide for interaction among the users or the building it creates a large social gathering space and takes advantage of the desirable weather of southern California. This also ties into the notion that campus buildings should act as an integral participant in campus life for students. Some sustainable practices incorporated into the building include:

. The building exceeds 15% energy savings from Title 24

. Use of draught-tolerant landscaping

. Erosion control plan during construction to prevent sedimentation of local waterways

. Compact building footprint minimizes site disturbance

. Low absorption, high-emissivity roofing reduces heat island effect

. High performance building envelope reduces HVAC system requirements and demands

. Use of recyclable interior finishes, including flooring and ceilings

. Recycling program implemented in the building

Are there any new/upcoming projects in your office that this building's design and construction has influenced?

While Chaparral Hall was being designed, two other projects were also underway - UCSD Price Center East and Ordos Villa. These projects explore similar strategies in developing a relationship between the building and its respective site. They all are designed as continuous sequences of events weaving indoor and outdoor spaces to promote interaction and spur activity.

E-mail interview conducted by John Hill