How a Modern Garage Transformed Palo Alto's Cityscape
The 350 Sherman Garage is a remarkable addition to Palo Alto’s downtown, transforming what might have been an ordinary parking structure into a landmark of modern design and sustainability. This six-level garage combines urban aesthetics with green technology, enhancing the cityscape and setting a new standard for public infrastructure.
A Collaborative Design Process
The 350 Sherman Garage was the result of a close collaboration between Watry Design, Inc., Ross Drulis Cusenbery Architecture Inc., and Swinerton Builders. They worked closely with the city and the Architectural Review Board to ensure the structure would fit seamlessly into the surrounding area, including the California Avenue commercial district and Stanford University.
Sustainable Features
One of the standout features of the 350 Sherman Garage is its emphasis on sustainability. The garage includes several green features:
Covered Bike Parking: Encourages eco-friendly transportation.
EV Charging Stations: Supports the growing number of electric vehicles.
Raingardens: These help manage stormwater on-site, a critical feature given the area's constraints.
Green Screens: These provide a natural, aesthetic appeal while contributing to the building’s sustainable design.
Photovoltaic Panels: These solar panels generate renewable energy, reducing the garage's carbon footprint.
Terra Cotta Cladding
The garage's exterior is clad in terra cotta, a durable and sustainable material made from baked clay. This material, supplied by Boston Valley Terra Cotta, is not only environmentally friendly but also adds a distinctive aesthetic to the structure. The terra cotta baguettes, or thin rods, provide a visual screen that beautifies the exterior while allowing daylight and natural ventilation into the garage.
While the contemporary layout of baguettes adds a modern touch to the downtown area, the red clay material is also a nod to the nearby Stanford University, and the clay roofs of its many mission revival style buildings.
Enhancing the Urban Landscape
The 350 Sherman Garage demonstrates that parking structures can be much more than functional necessities; they can also enhance the urban landscape. By incorporating sustainable elements and aesthetically pleasing designs, these structures can reduce their environmental impact and add value to their surroundings.
The Role of Photography in Showcasing Architecture
Capturing the essence of the 350 Sherman Garage required careful consideration of light and activity. The mid-morning sunlight was stark, so I added a neutral density filter to slow down the shutter speed, creating a static image of the building with a slight blur of movement from people and cars. This technique highlights the dynamic nature of the space while maintaining focus on the architectural details.
A New Standard for Parking Structures
The 350 Sherman Garage sets a new standard for what parking structures can achieve. By integrating sustainable features and innovative design, it proves that these often-overlooked elements of urban infrastructure can be both functional and beautiful. As cities continue to grow and evolve, projects like the 350 Sherman Garage will become increasingly important in shaping our urban environments.
Photovoltaic Panels and Energy Efficiency
One of the key sustainable features of the 350 Sherman Garage is its use of photovoltaic panels. These panels convert sunlight into electricity, providing a renewable energy source for the garage. This not only reduces the building's reliance on non-renewable energy sources but also helps to lower operating costs over time. The integration of solar panels is a forward-thinking approach that aligns with Palo Alto's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Green Screens and Aesthetic Appeal
Green screens are another notable feature of the 350 Sherman Garage. These living walls are not just visually appealing but also contribute to the building's eco-friendliness. Green screens help to improve air quality, reduce heat island effects, and provide insulation, which can lower energy consumption. They also offer a touch of nature in an urban setting, making the garage more inviting and pleasant for users.
EV Charging Stations: Supporting the Electric Revolution
As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road continues to increase, the demand for convenient charging solutions grows. The 350 Sherman Garage addresses this need by including multiple EV charging stations. These stations encourage the adoption of electric vehicles by providing a reliable place for drivers to charge their cars. This feature is particularly important in a progressive city like Palo Alto, where sustainability and innovation are highly valued.
Raingardens: Natural Stormwater Management
Raingardens are an essential part of the garage's sustainable design. These gardens are strategically placed to manage stormwater runoff, filtering rainwater through vegetation and soil before it enters the drainage system. This process helps to remove pollutants and reduce the burden on municipal stormwater systems. In addition to their functional benefits, raingardens add a touch of greenery to the urban environment, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the garage.
Architectural Integration and Urban Fabric
The design of the 350 Sherman Garage was heavily influenced by the surrounding urban fabric. The architects drew inspiration from the nearby California Avenue commercial district and Stanford University, incorporating elements that reflect the character and history of the area. This thoughtful integration ensures that the garage not only meets practical needs but also contributes to the visual and cultural identity of Palo Alto.
Terra Cotta: Blending Tradition with Modernity
The use of terra cotta for the garage's exterior cladding is a nod to traditional building materials while embracing modern design principles. Terra cotta is known for its durability and sustainability, making it an excellent choice for the garage. The terra cotta baguettes provide a unique texture and color, adding depth and interest to the building's façade. This material choice helps the garage stand out as a modern yet timeless addition to the cityscape.
The Future of Urban Parking Solutions
The 350 Sherman Garage exemplifies the future of urban parking solutions. By combining cutting-edge sustainable features with thoughtful design, it demonstrates how parking structures can be reimagined as valuable components of the urban environment. As cities around the world grapple with the challenges of growth and sustainability, projects like this will serve as models for integrating green building practices into everyday infrastructure.
A Model for Sustainable Urban Design
The 350 Sherman Garage is more than just a place to park cars; it is a testament to what can be achieved when innovative design and sustainability come together. From its photovoltaic panels and green screens to its EV charging stations and raingardens, every aspect of the garage has been thoughtfully designed to enhance both functionality and aesthetics. As cities continue to evolve, the 350 Sherman Garage will remain a shining example of how sustainable urban design can positively impact our communities and environment.
Key Takeaways from How a Modern Garage Transformed Palo Alto's Cityscape
The 350 Sherman Garage integrates sustainable features like photovoltaic panels, green screens, and raingardens.
The design process involved collaboration between Watry Design, Inc., Ross Drulis Cusenbery Architecture Inc., and Swinerton Builders.
Terra cotta cladding, supplied by Boston Valley Terra Cotta, is used for its durability and aesthetic appeal, blending tradition with modernity.
The garage supports eco-friendly transportation with covered bike parking and EV charging stations.
Photovoltaic panels reduce the building’s carbon footprint and lower operating costs.
Green screens improve air quality and reduce heat island effects while enhancing the building’s appearance.
Raingardens manage stormwater runoff naturally, filtering pollutants and easing the burden on municipal systems.
The garage's design reflects the character of the surrounding California Avenue commercial district and Stanford University.
The project demonstrates how parking structures can enhance urban landscapes rather than detract from them.
The 350 Sherman Garage sets a new standard for sustainable and aesthetically pleasing urban infrastructure.