Recently, MBH Architects was approached by the Target Corporation, who asked them to design a new store in San Rafael, Calf. The problem: the building was slated for the former San Quentin Prison dump site, meaning that the lot was full of hazardous materials and that the ground was unstable.
MBH worked with a team of specialists—from structural, civil, and landscape specialists to experts in methane mitigation, vertical reciprocating conveyors, and onsite lighting—to make the lot suitable for the new store.
The unstable ground had been projected to sink two to three feet over the next 30-40 years. In order to make the building site more stable, the team started by driving prefabricated piles into the ground. In addition, Target San Rafael’s parking lot is connected by elevated walkways that minimize impact to the ground.
To counteract potentially hazardous materials, vents have been installed throughout the site and parking light poles release the methane build-up.
The LEED Gold-certified store features a number of green features, including 17 electric car chargers, solar panels, and a stormwater recycling system.
Before construction, the site was a literal dump.
Related Stories
| Mar 5, 2012
Perkins Eastman pegs O’Donnell to lead K-12 practice
O’Donnell will continue the leadership and tradition of creative design established by firm Chairman and CEO Bradford Perkins FAIA, MRAIC, AICP in leading this market sector across the firm’s 13 offices domestically and internationally.
| Mar 5, 2012
Moody+Nolan designs sustainable fire station in Cincinnati
Cincinnati fire station achieves LEED Gold certification.
| Mar 5, 2012
Gilbane Building Co. wins top honors at ASA Houston awards ceremony
Gilbane was also named General Contractor of the Year for the seventh time in 11 years and won the inaugural Safety Program of the Year award.
| Mar 5, 2012
Franklin Institute in Philadelphia selects Skanska to construct new pavilion
The building has been designed by SaylorGregg Architects and will apply for LEED Silver certification.
| Mar 2, 2012
By the Numbers
66 skyscrapers to built in China over six years; 1,000 questions in the Modern Architecture game; 21,000 new jobs.
| Mar 1, 2012
Intelligent construction photography, not just pretty pictures
Our expert tells how to organize construction progress photos so you don’t lose track of all the valuable information they contain.
| Mar 1, 2012
AIA: A clear difference, new developments in load-bearing glass
Earn 1.0 AIA/CES learning units by studying this article and successfully completing the online exam.
| Mar 1, 2012
8 tips for architects to consider before LED installation
Lighting experts offer Building Team members critical information to consider before upgrading lighting systems to LEDs.
| Mar 1, 2012
Reconstruction Awards: Reinvesting in a neighborhood’s future
The reconstruction of a near-century-old derelict public works facility in Minneapolis earns LEED Platinum—and the hearts and minds of the neighboring community.
