A proposed design by HMC Architects for a new San Clemente Marine Safety Headquarters makes creative use of the seaside topography of the Pacific Coast. The design, which recently won an AIA San Diego 2022 Design Award, would place the structure within a bluff, cradled in the thermal mass of the earth. The subterranean space would enjoy plentiful natural light, passive ventilation, and extreme energy efficiency, with the building anticipated to use 87% less energy than average.
Removing the old building would give the beach back to the public, providing 20,000 sf of new public space along the shore. The new public safety facility, the administrative headquarters of the lifeguard corps, would be situated underneath a new public plaza. Many of the facility’s functions, such as loading, maintenance, and storage, are unsightly and occupy valuable public space.
The new design hides these functions below grade while still giving staff uninterrupted views of the beach. On the bluff, extending the terrace outward increases the plaza area 12-fold and the linear footage of seating 25-fold, while maintaining the same amount of planted area.
Built in 1968, the existing structure is a familiar landmark on the Southern California coast. It has fallen into disrepair, due to coastal erosion and harsh salt winds. Renovating the existing structure in its current location would be expensive and would not provide compliance with modern standards. Furthermore, rising sea levels and storm surges will increasingly threaten the property. To avoid this, the architects proposed using the equivalent renovation budget to create a modern facility while expanding space for public enjoyment.
“The transformation of an underutilized hillside into a strong, terraced public plaza, while creatively incorporating existing elements, is commendable,” according to a comment from the AIA San Diego Award Jury.
Building Team:
Owner and/or developer: City of San Clemente
Design architect: HMC Architects
MEP engineer: P2S
Structural engineer: KPFF
Related Stories
Building Team | Nov 7, 2016
Taking cues from nature: How biomimicry can drive ROI for hoteliers
Biomimicry takes inspiration from nature’s form, processes, and ecosystems to solve human problems. This design method, which incorporates lessons learned from nature, can constantly morph in response to new challenges in our environments, writes Gensler's Lorraine Francis.
Building Team | Nov 2, 2016
AIA 'I Look Up Film Challenge' People's Choice Award revealed
Top films address accessibility for the disabled, 18th century urban planning, and a recycling facility that does more than repurpose material.
Building Team | Oct 31, 2016
The world’s 100 tallest buildings: Who owns and has developed the most?
All but four owners/developers on the list are located in the United Arab Emirates, China, or Hong Kong.
Architects | Oct 24, 2016
Winners of the 2016 AAP American Architecture Prize announced
The AAP recognizes the most outstanding architecture worldwide across three disciplines: architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture.
Sponsored | Building Team | Oct 4, 2016
The talent shortage: Will the training the AEC industry desperately needs arrive in time?
As the construction industry bounces back from the Great Recession, an entirely new class of tech-savvy construction professionals has been created, and the supply of these highly skilled, tech-proficient pros has been quickly exhausted.
Sponsored | Building Team | Sep 29, 2016
Manners Still Matter in Advancing Your AEC Career
A well-written thank-you note can land you the job you've been looking for.
Sponsored | | Sep 29, 2016
How to Get Your Best AEC Job in a Virtual World
Top tips for getting that AEC-industry job you’ve always dreamed of in today’s virtual world.
Sponsored | Building Team | Sep 29, 2016
How to Stand Out to Get That AEC Industry ‘Dream Job’
In searching for your AEC dream job, it's important to differentiate yourself in the hiring process. Here are 6 tips to help you do just that.
Sponsored | Building Team | Sep 6, 2016
EFFECTIVE MENTORING: Making It Work for Your AEC Career
Mentoring programs at AEC firms can take many forms. Being involved in a mentoring program, as mentor or protege, can be an important step in career development for design. engineering, and construction professionals.
