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An ode to mass timber for Urban Confluence
San Francisco, 2020

The project emerges as a dynamic yet impactful iconic form that entices visitors to approach and interact with the surrounding landscape. We propose a landscape of recreational elements on the West site and the iconic Portal tower with plaza, gardens and Eco-center on East Arena Green. In this location east of the highway, the tower will reduce its impact on natural wildlife and require no trees to be affected. Furthermore, it is most visible here: when viewed from the highway it appears to change from a striking triangular shape to one that reveals the open portal which frames the views and the city, making San Jose part of the design itself.

The project aims to express a culture which is forward looking, contemporary and technologically cutting edge while harnessing the importance of place and natural ecosystems. A net-zero proposal that uses solar powered elements for all lighting and energy requirements and timber as the main construction material for the iconic tower. Timber’s aesthetic quality speaks to our environment; it absorbs carbon thus impacting positively in our climate as well as having highest load-bearing capacities. All wood types would be from ecologically managed forests.

PROJECT DATA
Design Team: Eva Perez de Vega + Ian Gordon
Consultant: ARUP, Jacinda Ross, Lighting International Competition Team