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University of California, San Diego

California Institute of Telecommunications & Information Technology

San Diego, California

The California Institute of Telecommunications and Information Technology at the University of California San Diego was designed to cultivate new discoveries by unusual teams of scientists and engineers collaborating on experimental wireless research. Conceptually, both the architecture (by NBBJ) and the lighting seek to convey technology's dynamic nature and the synergy of intersecting ideas. Integrating dynamic colors, patterns and layers of light into the architecture visually brings this concept to life. Special features of the lighting include modified steplights and fluorescent T8 fixtures with orange gel sleeves.

The lighting design alone exceeded Title24 energy requirements by 17.5% and was the highest contributor to the building's overall energy performance of 12.2% under Title24. The project qualified for the Savings by Design Energy Incentive program, meeting the client's expectations for an energy efficient design.

The lighting program included reconfigurable and specialized labs, research offices, circulation and collaborative areas, video conference rooms, digital auditorium, pre-function and exhibit gallery.

The project's lighting design has been recognized with an IIDA Award of Merit.