| With the design of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) new headquarters and vehicle emissions testing facility, CARB sets a new standard for energy reductions. Not only is it the largest and most advanced vehicle emissions testing and research facility in the world, it’s also designed to be the largest net-zero energy facility of its type. The project is designed to achieve LEED Platinum® and meets all CalGreen Tier 2 building standards. Aligning with CARB’s mission to protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through the reduction of airborne pollutants, CARB consolidated five existing locations into one facility that improves efficiency of operations and provides a healthy workplace for the organization’s 450+ employees.
Architecturally, the building is characterized by clearly defined angles crystallized by charcoal and amber-colored metal panels making the cutting-edge form representative of the machine-like, innovative nature of CARB, while being simplistic enough to make way for its complex programmatic needs. Influenced by Riverside’s semi-arid regional climate, performance, and budget, the architectural parti established in the entryway is echoed throughout the exterior of the project’s sprawling footprint.
Beyond reaching high-performance targets, the Design-Build team designed the three-story pinwheel-shaped building to create a beautiful destination, be a good neighbor, and provide a compelling, connected environment that fosters a strong sense of pride and place for CARB and its employees. The new headquarters features a complex program with myriad space types, including a main entrance and lobby, an employee entrance and lounge, a large auditorium, open office, conference rooms, light- and heavy-duty vehicular emissions testing wings, specialized chemistry and hydrogen laboratories, and employee amenity spaces such as an expansive breakroom, a gym, cafes, and coffee bars. The facility is sited optimally on 19 acres to encourage biking, walking, public transit, and use of zero emission vehicles to reduce transportation impacts. |
