Award Description

Project Participants

Owner – San Diego Gas & Electric, San Diego, CA
Architect – Richard Yen & Associates, San Diego, CA
Structural Engineer – Hope Engineering, San Diego, CA
General Contractor – Consolidated Contracting Services, San Clemente, CA
Masonry Contractor Winegardner Masonry Inc, Yucaipa, CA
Block Producer – Orco Block Co, Oceanside, CA

The goal for this project was to develop an architectural form with materials that are common and cost conscious within the specific site and use. Construction cost and schedule were to be considered in the design goals. Masonry proved to be the most cost effective solution for the building shell. The use of masonry construction also allowed for rapid construction to meet the tight construction schedule.

The design was to integrate the structural building material as finish product. Utilizing concrete masonry allowed us to do that and also enabled us to incorporate large glazed areas contributing to LEED criteria.

Shot block was selected for its finish, quality and durability, which were required for this project. Simple block color and massings were in response to the site conditions and building use. We believe that CMU, steel and glass were appropriate materials that were aesthetically correct, functional, and economically appropriate for the client and the building use.