San Francisco Federal Building
San Francisco
Morphosis
A model of green building, the 18-story home for federal workers was the first office tower in the U.S. to eliminate air-conditioning, at least over 70% of its area. It accomplishes this through a computer-controlled skin, developed with engineers at Ove Arup, that actively adjusts to weather changes. Its narrow floor plate allows for natural ventilation, while metal sunscreens shade the floor-to-ceiling windows. But most striking are its bold design and social agenda: Skip-stop elevators, sky gardens, and open stairs will foster interaction among employees, with the idea of creating a healthy office environment and a healthy culture.
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