HOK to design futuristic Berkeley Space Center at NASA Park

The Berkeley Space Center at NASA Park in Silicon Valley is set to be transformed into a futuristic office and research complex that aims to push the boundaries of knowledge. Leading the team of master planners is architecture studio HOK, which has unveiled plans for a 1.4 million square foot development that includes glass-clad buildings, green spaces, and low-rise structures. The center will support research in aeronautics, computing, and climate science, and will also serve as a testbed for innovative low-carbon design and construction practices. With its location adjacent to Moffett Federal Airfield and Hangar One, the Berkeley Space Center is poised to become a hub of innovation in the heart of Silicon Valley.

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Overview

The Berkeley Space Center at NASA Park, designed by architecture studio HOK, is an ambitious office and research complex located in Silicon Valley. This project aims to expand knowledge and push the boundaries of technology. The center will encompass 1.4 million square feet of office and research space and involves various master planners, including the University of California Berkeley, developer SKS Partners, and landscape architecture studio Field Operations.

Introduction

The Berkeley Space Center is a cutting-edge development that seeks to foster collaboration and innovation. Designed by HOK, the center will provide a conducive environment for research and exploration in various fields, such as aeronautics, computing, and climate science. With its futuristic design and commitment to sustainability, the Berkeley Space Center is poised to become a hub for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in technology.

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Project Description

The Berkeley Space Center will consist of low-rise buildings clad in glass, offering ample space for research and retail activities. The master plan also includes residential properties, making the center a vibrant and dynamic community. The centerpiece of the complex will be a circular green space enclosed by a perforated canopy-covered walkway. Additionally, multiple green spaces are planned throughout the site, creating a harmonious connection between nature and architecture.

Master Planners

The Berkeley Space Center involves a highly skilled team of master planners, including the University of California Berkeley, SKS Partners, HOK, and Field Operations. Each entity brings their expertise to the project, ensuring that the center meets the highest standards of design, functionality, and sustainability. The collaboration between these master planners ensures a holistic approach to the development of the Berkeley Space Center.

Location

The Berkeley Space Center is strategically located within the NASA Research Park in Silicon Valley. Its proximity to Moffett Federal Airfield and Hangar One, which is currently owned by Google, provides a unique setting for this research and office complex. This prime location offers easy access to key resources and a vibrant atmosphere conducive to collaboration and innovation.

Design Concept

The design concept of the Berkeley Space Center revolves around creating a collaborative environment that fosters the expansion of knowledge and the development of tomorrow’s defining technologies. The architecture of the center, with its glass-clad buildings and open spaces, promotes transparency, inspiration, and creativity. The permeable nature of the design allows for easy interaction between researchers, business professionals, and the public, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.

Features

Glass-Clad Buildings

The glass-clad buildings in the Berkeley Space Center provide a modern and transparent aesthetic. The design maximizes natural light, creating an inspiring and productive environment for researchers and employees. This integration of glass into the architecture also symbolizes the center’s commitment to openness and transparency.

Research and Retail

The Berkeley Space Center will offer dedicated spaces for research and retail activities. The state-of-the-art research facilities will provide researchers with the necessary infrastructure and resources to carry out groundbreaking studies. The inclusion of retail spaces within the center ensures convenience and accessibility for its occupants and visitors.

Green Spaces

To bring nature closer to the built environment, the Berkeley Space Center includes several green spaces throughout the complex. These spaces offer relaxation areas, promoting well-being and enhancing the overall experience of employees and visitors. The incorporation of greenery also contributes to the sustainability and ecological balance of the center.

Collaborative Environment

The design of the Berkeley Space Center aims to foster collaboration and interdisciplinary interaction. The circular green space at the center of the complex serves as a gathering point, facilitating informal discussions and knowledge exchange. The open plan layout of the buildings further encourages collaboration by providing flexible and adaptable spaces for various team activities.

Testbed for Innovation

The Berkeley Space Center is not only a facility for research and development but also a platform for innovative construction practices. The construction of the center itself presents an opportunity to explore new design, construction, and management approaches. The site will serve as a testbed for pioneering low-carbon design and construction practices, setting an example for future large-scale developments.

Low-Carbon Design and Construction

Sustainability is at the core of the Berkeley Space Center’s design and construction. The master planners are committed to incorporating innovative environmental practices. The center’s design will utilize solar power to reduce its carbon footprint. Additionally, stormwater retention techniques will be employed to manage water resources efficiently. The site’s landscape development will also employ phytoremediation techniques, contributing to the healing of groundwater aquifers.

Research Areas

Aeronautics

The Berkeley Space Center will support research in aeronautics, building on the rich history of federal aeronautics research conducted at the Ames site. This research will contribute to advancements in aviation technology and propel the aerospace industry forward.

Computing

As technology continues to evolve, the Berkeley Space Center will play a crucial role in advancing computing research. The center’s facilities and resources will support groundbreaking research in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, and quantum computing.

Climate Science

With the increasing importance of understanding and mitigating the effects of climate change, the Berkeley Space Center will provide a platform for climate science research. Scientists at the center will study climate patterns, develop sustainable solutions, and contribute to global efforts to combat environmental challenges.

Construction and Sustainability

Innovative Design and Construction Practices

The construction of the Berkeley Space Center will employ innovative design and construction practices. The master planners will explore new ways of building that prioritize sustainability, energy efficiency, and waste reduction. This focus on innovation will set a benchmark for future large-scale developments.

Solar Power

Solar power will be a key component of the Berkeley Space Center’s commitment to sustainability. The center’s design will incorporate solar panels to generate clean energy, reducing its reliance on non-renewable energy sources. This integration of solar power will contribute to the center’s low-carbon footprint.

Stormwater Retention

To manage stormwater effectively, the Berkeley Space Center will employ on-site stormwater retention techniques. These practices allow for the collection and storage of rainwater, reducing the burden on municipal water systems and minimizing the center’s environmental impact.

Phytoremediation

Phytoremediation, a process by which plants are used to remove contaminants from the environment, will be utilized in the development of the Berkeley Space Center. The site’s landscape will be carefully planned to facilitate phytoremediation and contribute to the healing of groundwater aquifers, promoting ecological balance.

History of Ames Site

Federal Aeronautics Research

The Ames site has a long history of federal aeronautics research that dates back to the late 1930s. Originally operated under the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), the site played a crucial role in advancing aviation technology. The research conducted at the Ames site laid the foundation for future aerospace developments.

NACA and NASA

After the creation of NASA in 1958, the federal aeronautics research conducted at the Ames site was absorbed into the newly formed agency. This transition allowed for continued collaboration and research, cementing the Ames site as a hub for aerospace innovation. The Berkeley Space Center builds upon this rich history and aims to further push the boundaries of knowledge and technology.

Other HOK Projects

Apple Campus

HOK has a successful track record in Silicon Valley, with other notable projects like the Apple Campus. The Apple Campus exemplifies HOK’s ability to design innovative and sustainable spaces tailored to the needs of technology companies. This project showcases HOK’s expertise in creating environments that promote collaboration and inspire creativity.

Penn Station Renovation

HOK’s portfolio extends beyond Silicon Valley, as showcased by their design for the Penn Station renovation in New York City. Collaborating with PAU, HOK is reimagining one of the city’s iconic transportation hubs, revitalizing the space and creating a contemporary and functional environment. This project highlights HOK’s ability to transform existing infrastructure into modern and efficient spaces.

In conclusion, the Berkeley Space Center at NASA Park is a visionary project that seeks to expand the frontiers of knowledge and advance technology. With its innovative design, commitment to sustainability, and emphasis on collaboration, the center is poised to become a leading research and office complex in Silicon Valley. The partnership between the master planners ensures a comprehensive and holistic approach to the development, setting a benchmark for future large-scale projects.

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