Solution

University of California, Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences

Berkeley, CA

Service: Building Enclosure Design
Market: Education - College & Prep
Keywords: Air Barrier, Award Winning, Below-Grade, Classroom, New Construction, LEED Projects, Laboratory, Masonry, Masonry-Terra Cotta, Peer Review, Roofing, Waterproofing

Completion

2010

Awards

2012 Craftsmanship Award, Mechanical Category, California Association of Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors, National Association
2012 Best New R&D Project in the Bay Area, San Francisco Business Times
University of California, Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences
University of California, Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences

The UC Berkeley Health Sciences Initiative included replacing Warren Hall near the northwest corner of campus with the new Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences. The five-story Li Ka Shing Center offers space for scientists to research molecular basis for disease with a focus on cancer biology, infectious diseases, gene regulation, stem cell biology, and neurodegenerative diseases. Collaborating with McCarthy Building Companies and Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects, SGH peer reviewed the building enclosure design and performed a moisture study of the exterior walls.

 

Scope | Solutions

 

SGH consulted on the building enclosure for the 200,000 sq ft structure clad in concrete, terra-cotta, and glass with a top-level stainless steel screen that conceals mechanical equipment. The project team’s selection of materials, energy-efficient systems, and a living roof contributed to the building’s LEED Gold certification.

 

We peer reviewed the building enclosure components below and helped develop details to integrate various systems.

  • Below-grade wall and underslab waterproofing

  • Exterior wall systems, including a terra-cotta rain screen panel system and architecturally exposed structural steel

  • Windows, doors, and a structural silicone glazed curtain wall

  • Low- and steep-sloped roofs, a green roof, and terraces

  • Expansion joints between new and existing buildings

  • Continuous air barrier system across multiple cladding and glazing finishes

Project Contact(s)

Kenneth Klein

Kenneth Klein