Defined by its mass timber structure and exposed wood elements, University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) campus’s new undergraduate building recently completed construction.
The building embraces a sustainable design approach, unifying a complex network of pathways and green spaces on the campus.
The five-story building features limestone plaster facades on the campus’ core, while an L-shaped building and the grade-level auditorium frame the terrace.
Inside, full-height windows bring daylight and natural ventilation into the classrooms.
As the first mass timber project for UC Berkeley, the undergraduate academic building embraces the environmental benefits of wood, significantly reducing the project’s embodied carbon.
Targeting LEED Gold, the all-electric building is photovoltaic (PV)-ready and incorporates energy-efficient elements such as cross-ventilated classrooms, offices with operable windows and ceiling fans, exterior shading, and demand-control ventilation with heat recovery.
Designed by LMN Architects, the building is estimated to open to students and staff in 2026.
