The Pacific Center Campus Development (PCCD) Research + Development Building (R+D Building) in San Diego received a 2018 AIA California Council Merit Award. 

The R+D Building is a product of research seeking to understand the direct relationship between human health and time spent in nature. Located in San Diego’s mild climate — an intersection of perennial sunlight and ocean breezes — the building provides immersive access to nature by embracing daylight, ventilation, and views.

This year’s jury was comprised of five influential voices within the architecture world, including: Kelly Bauer, NCIDQ, FIIDA; Ignacio F. Bunster-Ossa, FASLA, LEED AP; David Lake, FAIA; Jennifer Luce, FAIA; and Marsha Maytum, FAIA. The jurors combed through more than 250 projects thoroughly seeking innovation, beauty, new ideas, and sensitivity to landscape.

The R+D Building exemplifies and showcases the type of innovation being conducted within and looks to set a new benchmark for sustainable design. The research center and workplace elevates and enhances the daily experience of its occupants. Although the design is technical and complex, the project can be simplified to the accomplishment of one universal desire — connecting people with nature.

In 2017, the PCCD Amenities Building garnered the same award.