LPA Design Studios' Innovative Campus Expansion Wins California Green Building Award

ranging from meetings to casual discussions—eliminating the need for cooling and allowing natural air circulation. This design promotes an environment where collaboration flourishes.

The campus expansion includes five buildings, all of which have received LEED certifications, including a remarkable LEED Platinum net-zero energy pavilion and three LEED Gold facilities. The addition of 1,100 kilowatts of renewable energy systems boosts the total installed capacity across the entire campus to 2,200 kilowatts. The installation is seamlessly integrated into the campus architecture and landscape, generating approximately 3.5 megawatt-hours of energy annually.

Commendations from the Jury


The jury at the U.S. Green Building Council was impressed by the project's scalability, especially within the context of a lab environment—a notoriously difficult arena for sustainable practices. They praised the connection between its sustainability efforts and enhanced value for the client, describing the design team's approach as both innovative and committed.

Director of Engineering at LPA, Erik Ring, stated, "This project demonstrates the effectiveness of integrated design. Architects, engineers, and landscape architects collaborated to create a vibrant space that significantly reduces operational emissions while also achieving aesthetic excellence."

Among the key aspects of the campus are pathways equipped with photovoltaic panels that serve dual purposes—they act as shaded walkways and circulate foot traffic. Additionally, vegetated roof decks enhance the landscape while minimizing the heat island effect.

Also noteworthy is the installation of one of California's largest systems for rainwater harvesting, complemented by drought-resistant landscaping aimed at managing stormwater. To further promote sustainability, the campus features a charging infrastructure for electric vehicles that surpasses the state's Green Building Code.

LPA President Keith Hempel emphasized the collaboration between team members and the firm's visionary clients, stating, "This is not just a project about sustainability; it’s an initiative that aligns with Edwards Lifesciences’ commitment to enhancing lives and nurturing its workforce."

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, LPA maintained momentum, utilizing digital coordination tools to track progress and achieve sustainability targets throughout the project timeline.

A Benchmark for Future Projects


The achievement of the Edwards Lifesciences campus expansion sets a benchmark for the corporate world, showcasing how environmentally responsible designs can coexist with operational effectiveness. This award serves as an inspiration for future projects aimed at integrating corporate responsibility with high design standards, and shows what is possible when teams work seamlessly towards common sustainability goals.

LPA Design Studios, established in 1965, is a multi-discipline firm that focuses on creating timeless designs that yield lasting value, improve the environment, and enhance the human experience. Currently, they operate six studios across California and Texas, partnering with over 500 professionals skilled in various disciplines of architecture, engineering, and design. This recent win further cements their reputation as a trailblazer in the field of sustainable architecture.

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