At the Keck Medicine Center of USC in Pasadena, designed by SmithGroup, these requirements were carefully integrated into a four-storey outpatient facility bringing together 15 clinical disciplines.
Large glazed façades maximise visual connection to the surrounding landscape and introduce generous levels of natural daylight into treatment and circulation areas. To respond to the intense Southern Californian sun, approximately 1,100 sqm of OKAWOOD insulating glass was integrated into the building envelope. Timber slats embedded within the cavity provide direction-selective solar shading, reducing solar gains while preserving transparency and views towards the San Gabriel Mountains.
The spacing of the timber grid was specifically adapted to the local solar path, filtering high-angle midday sunlight while maintaining a bright interior environment.
Beyond its contribution to occupant comfort, the façade concept supports the project's ambitious sustainability strategy and its pursuit of LEED Platinum certification.
