Stanford University’s new Innovation Curve Technology Park will certainly embody its name.
Designed by Form4 Architecture of San Francisco, the 13.5-acre Palo Alto campus will have four buildings that feature steep curved roofs that will be fabricated of painted recycled aluminum. The buildings, located on the edge of the Stanford Research Park, will accommodate programs for computer gaming, translation software, and digital inventions.
The wavy roofs reach up to two stories in height and are meant to symbolize the “roller-coaster evolution of innovation,” according to Form4. The process of exploratory research and development is filled with highs and lows (and some stagnation), and the roofs are a testament to that.
Deep overhangs and vertical glass fins shade the building exteriors to control solar heat gain and provide views in and out of the building. The design incorporates deep horizontal sunshades that act as light shelves and solar-controlled skylights.
With intentions of achieving LEED-Platinum certification, the Innovation Curve also has sustainable features like high-efficiency mechanical and electrical systems, high-performance cool roofs, solar power generation, recycling of construction waste, and bioswales landscaped with native plants.
The Innovation Curve buildings are under construction and are expected to be completed by 2017. Also on the Building Team are Vance Brown Builders (contractor), DCI (SE), and M-E Engineers (MEP).
(Click renderings to enlarge)
Related Stories
Office Buildings | Jul 13, 2016
Latest Gensler survey links innovation with workplace flexibility
A poll of 4,000-plus U.S. workers finds the most innovative among them spend less time at the office.
Office Buildings | Jul 12, 2016
CF Møller designs LEGO world headquarters complex in Denmark
The 52,000-sm complex will incorporate many familiar motifs from the popular plastic building block toys.
Office Buildings | Jul 11, 2016
CetraRuddy designs office tower for Manhattan’s Meatpacking district
Plans originally called for a hotel, but the architect and developers adapted their design for commercial use.
Market Data | Jul 6, 2016
A thriving economy and influx of businesses spur construction in downtown Seattle
Development investment is twice what it was five years ago.
Contractors | Jul 4, 2016
A new report links infrastructure investment to commercial real estate expansion
Competitiveness and economic development are at stake for cities, says Transwestern.
High-rise Construction | Jun 29, 2016
Best Tall Buildings around the world favor unusual shapes and hybrid functions
The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat selects winners in four regions.
Office Buildings | Jun 16, 2016
Ability to focus, not perks, is top concern for office employees
Open-plan offices found to worsen distraction problem.
High-rise Construction | Jun 15, 2016
WilkinsonEyre designs diamond-patterned Bay Park Centre for Toronto
A sloping plaza with trees, grass, and gardens connects the two downtown towers.
Office Buildings | Jun 14, 2016
Let's not forget introverts when it comes to workplace design
Recent design trends favor extroverts who enjoy collaboration. HDR's Lynn Mignola says that designers need to accommodate introverts, people who recharge with solitude, as well.
Movers+Shapers | Jun 13, 2016
THE DISRUPTORS: The Millennial generation is imposing its will on design
AEC firms, particularly those that design hotels and offices, gain a competitive edge by knowing how to appeal to the largest share of the American workforce.