The California ISO headquarters – a vision for the future
The California Independent System Operator (ISO) manages the state’s transmission of electricity over long distances using high voltage equipment. For the design of its new head office, the corporation placed an emphasis on sustainable building practices and environmental values, which made Beaubois an obvious choice for the $160M project.
Designs were created according to LEED® Gold certification standards, and only FSC wood was used. A world-renowned classification, FSC wood can be traced back to its forest of origin. While it has become an increasingly popular choice, it is rare that a project is carried out using FSC wood exclusively.
The Beaubois team crafted custom furnishings and architectural elements for this project, including natural cherry wood panels in the conference room, placed so that the grain of the wood creates a breathtaking visual effect. Beaubois also produced and installed reception furniture, other wall panels and cupboards and vanities finished with Caesarstone, a solid surface that is a mix of quartz crystals and resin. Because of extremely strict earthquake code standards in California, the team worked meticulously through each stage of the project to ensure it would comply with all regulations.
Approximately 500 people work in the new 278,000-sq.-ft. complex that is comprised of three wings linked together. The main reception area is located in a two-storey building that also houses training rooms, an educational center and support equipment. The second building is for offices, while the third hosts a data center, a control center for critical missions and the electromechanical systems.
Beaubois was thrilled to be a part of this extensive, and environmentally sound project.
