UC Davis Health Admin Building Offices – Rancho Cordova

Stantec completed the UC Davis Health Admin Building offices as a sophisticated and dynamic space in Rancho Cordova, California.

A collocation of several administrative departments, the new 194,000-square-foot UC Davis Health Administration Services (HAS) Building brings these services under one roof, in a light-filled, modern workspace that reflects their commitment to sustainability and supports the health and wellbeing of their staff.

The two-story, Class ‘A’ space was originally constructed in the 1980s and needed creative solutions to address the lack of natural light and limited flexibility between areas.

To improve collaboration and efficiency for UC Davis Health’s functional support teams the design provides a central location that enables these operational groups to better serve the University’s patient network. This was accomplished by using the Central Business District (CBD) as the planning principal. The design nests around the “CBD” and breaks free into conceptual valleys, meadows, and sweet escapes through wide and narrow trails and quiet pathways where any user may find both collaborative or more intimate settings for their preferred workstyle.

The Stantec design introduced multi-level lightwells with skylights to create new double-height spaces through the center of the building, bringing sunlight all the way down to the first floor. Adjacent to the lightwells, stacked cubes for key meeting spaces give the illusion of additional height while existing structural steel frames create sculptural drama and an open elemental feel.

An indoor plaza serves as the central circulation point of the building, connecting people on both levels of the building. Coffee bars and collaborative lounges sprinkled throughout both levels support the natural tendency to gather around daylit areas. A two-level café connects the existing outdoor patio, extending the café and seating area, allowing staff to enjoy fresh air during the day.

To promote wellness, once enclosed stairwells were opened and celebrated. The two main stairs at the lobby and café invite and encourage occupants with raised wood platforms, textural plaster walls, and dynamic lighting. The celebrated stair in the café encourages cross collaboration and socialization between departments.

The finish palette consists of light wood tones, a balance of warm to light neutrals, and pops of greenery. The overall bright and airy atmosphere create a natural, modern, and sophisticated environment to create a timeless, lasting interior fit out that will not trend out. With sustainability at the forefront, all materials are PVC free.

Meeting the requirements of the University of California’s Carbon Neutrality Initiative, sustainability was at the forefront of all decisions inclusive of the re-use of an existing building, compared to a new build. This high performing design and reuse approach resulted in a 58% reduction in embodied carbon compared to a new building.

The building transitioned to all electric power and utilizes radiant panels for heating and cooling throughout. Free of ducting, the space provides direct heating and cooling to reduce recirculated air and potential for distribution of allergens. The double-height lobby with vertical walls, incorporates radiant panels, minimizes heat gain, and provides a monumental feel upon entry. The project successfully met the client’s goal, and the building is currently on track for LEED Gold and Net-Zero.

The design of the workplace will rise above the functions of the day-to-day work, providing an ambiance that fosters a collaborative work environment while minimizing its environment footprint. This space will inspire UCDH employees and engage visitors in an experience that builds relationships and heals the environment.

Design: Stantec
Contractor: XL Construction
Furniture: One Workplace
Photography: Kat Alves