Understanding Caltech’s vision for the Center for Information Science and Technology (IST) was the first step in the design process Through conversations with faculty, we gained a deeper understanding of the variety of ways this academic community gathers for research and teaching.

The architecture supports diverse requirements with a variety of spaces for interdisciplinary research including studio workspaces, conference rooms, classrooms, and offices. A rating of LEED Gold was achieved by incorporating several sustainable features including rainwater collection/reuse and a chilled beam HVAC system.

The patterns and rhythms of the mission style architecture that characterize the Caltech campus are abstracted and transformed into a modern building that reflects the values of the institution. Loggias, arcades, and exterior stairs from neighboring buildings are reinterpreted with modern materials that respond to the unique character of the site.

The campus sidewalk flows through the ground floor weaving the interior of the building into the campus circulation while creating opportunities for chance interactions as students pass through. The colors of the glass façade are derived from the olive trees lining Beckman Mall in the center of campus where students harvest olives and press the oil as an annual campus tradition.

The second and third floor of the building are linked with a double-height, informal living room sized to host the whole IST academic community. Students also gather here in small, informal groups for coffee and socializing.

I worked closely with the curtain wall manufacturer during the engineering, fabrication, testing, and installation of this sophisticated facade. The custom curtain wall includes operable windows, spandrel glass, and shadow boxes. When a window is opened, sensors in the window jamb alert the adjacent chilled beam HVAC to adjust the water temperature to prevent condensation on the surface of the beam.

I enjoyed engaging in both the artistic and technically innovative aspects of the design process. My role on the design team of this full-service project was comprehensive and continuous through all phases of design and construction during which I worked closely with leadership at Caltech, consultants, and contractors.