Target converts former prison dump into latest big-box store

Recently, MBH Architects was approached by the Target Corporation, who asked them to design a new store in San Rafael, Calf. The problem: the building was slated for the former San Quentin Prison dump site, meaning that the lot was full of hazardous materials and that the ground was unstable.

MBH worked with a team of specialists—from structural, civil, and landscape specialists to experts in methane mitigation, vertical reciprocating conveyors, and onsite lighting—to make the lot suitable for the new store.

The unstable ground had been projected to sink two to three feet over the next 30-40 years. In order to make the building site more stable, the team started by driving prefabricated piles into the ground. In addition, Target San Rafael’s parking lot is connected by elevated walkways that minimize impact to the ground.

To counteract potentially hazardous materials, vents have been installed throughout the site and parking light poles release the methane build-up.

The LEED Gold-certified store features a number of green features, including 17 electric car chargers, solar panels, and a stormwater recycling system.

Before construction, the site was a literal dump.

Managing a team of people, especially creative people, is a task that not everyone is up for. Keeping your team on the same page while maintaining a schedule and budget that can keep your corporation happy will take confidence and bountiful people skills. Here are some tips for effectively managing a project. SPONSORED CONTENT

Fire-rated glass floor system study area. Photo: courtesy TGP

Fire-rated glass floor system captures light in science and engineering infill

In implementing Northwestern University’s Engineering Life Sciences infill design, Flad Architects faced the challenge of ensuring adequate, balanced light given the adjacent, existing building wings. To allow for light penetration from the fifth floor to the ground floor, the design team desired a large, central atrium. One potential setback with drawing light through the atrium was meeting fire and life safety codes.

This 20-foot fixture, billed as the world's largest outdoor chandelier, is the c

| May 2, 2014

World's largest outdoor chandelier tops reworked streetscape for Cleveland's PlayhouseSquare

Streetscape project includes monumental gateway portals, LED signage, and a new plaza, fire pit, sidewalk café, and alfresco dining area.

The Tree, on Bergen, Norway's, waterfront, will consist of wood structural modul

| May 2, 2014

Norwegian modular project set to be world's tallest timber-frame apartment building [slideshow]

A 14-story luxury apartment block in central Bergen, Norway, will be the world's tallest timber-framed multifamily project, at 49 meters (160 feet).

| May 2, 2014

Top 10 countries for LEED buildings outside the U.S.

The list of the top 10 countries for LEED reflects the global adaptability of the world’s most widely used and recognized system guiding the design, construction, operations and maintenance of green buildings.

The new University Student Union at California State University San Marcos featu

| May 1, 2014

First look: Cal State San Marcos's posh student union complex

The new 89,000-sf University Student Union at CSUSM features a massive, open-air amphitheater, student activity center with a game lounge, rooftop garden and patio, and ballroom space.