Inspired by the tree bark of the nearby Pepper Canyon, strips of Solarban 72 Acuity glass and Solarban 90 glass by Vitro Architectural Glass alternate with metal panels and perforated metal shading fins to emulate the bark and vertical striations of eucalyptus trees at the University of California San Diego’s Pepper Canyon West Living and Learning neighborhood.
A pair of 22-story and 23-story asymmetrical towers flank a large canyon-like courtyard with walking paths, bicycle trails and spaces for study and relaxation. The buildings feature outdoor terraces and wood-paneled lounges with 1,300 units for transfer and upper-division students.
“The building’s unique design was conceptualized as two ascending spirals linking the canyon to the sky, with an emphasis on outdoor spaces and connectivity,” says Ryan Bussard, AIA, LEED AP, principal and design director, Perkins&Will, Seattle. “Stepped terraces stack upwards and introduce lounges and sky terraces with each turn; two central courtyards create a sense of community for the students, forming connections with the canyon rim trail and pathways as well as a larger network of open spaces within the district.”
