San Jose, California

The architectural approach to developing the facility as a “good neighbor” to the Santa Clara Civic Center is further enhanced by the treatment of the pedestrian realm. Both hardscape and natural elements are attuned with the new vision for the facility and strengthen its relationship to the Civic Center and the Community. The goal of the site design is to welcome users to the civic campus. Arrival is a dynamic experience featuring a set of grand stairs with a series of stepped concrete planter walls, creating planted terraces to soften the building’s elevated main entry plaza.

The initial design concepts provided for a staff roof terrace located directly adjacent to staff break and conference areas.  As envisioned, this area is intended to provide space for staff to have access to outdoors and break from work duties to refresh and recharge – an area for respite from the duties of the day.  A trellis structure would be provided at the Eastern most edge of terrace facing San Pedro Street, providing both shade and a buffer to views and noise from street below. Planting will reflect a California native and ornamental palette chosen strategically throughout the project, from streetscape to the entry experience to a respite garden environment.

Owner/Client: Santa Clara County

Team Lead: JE Dunn Construction / DLR Group