Project Description: Low-rise research facility which integrated solar shading system and natural ventilation. 

Detail of the shading device on the south façade

Exterior view of the south façade from the adjacent parking lot

North façade

Linear atrium with grill-like shading system

Interior atrium façade with operable windows

The façade system at the Center for the Clinical Science Research at Stanford University was designed in response to the moderate Palo Alto climate. To protect the building from sun, a series of large overhangs was placed to block direct sun on the south façade . The shading devices are made of a semi-opaque material, which allows a small portion of daylight to enter the interior space. 

The Center takes full advantage of daylight by dividing the building mass into two separate buildings, separated by a linear atrium, which runs east-west. A grill-like shading system was installed on the atrium roof to filter strong California sunlight. 

Reference 

Findley, L. 2001. "Solar protection in Norman Foster's hands create an elegant gathering place for scientists at Stanford University's new Center for Clinical Sciences." Architectural Record 189 (7): 130-137. 

Global Architecture Document 2001 (January), no. 64: 66-73.

Question/Information: eslee@lbl.gov