Social and Environmental Impact Advancement Commendation
Project name: The George and Wendy David Center for Ocean Innovation
Project overview: The David Center for Ocean Innovation is a dynamic laboratory for ocean engineering and underwater vehicle development that facilitates critical climate change research, elevates ocean understanding, and educates communities globally.
The research center is the result of a multi-year collaborative planning and design process, engaging ocean science researchers, ocean engineers, and the broader community. The project was developed and reviewed on its overall impact in numerous areas, including Wetlands Resources, Open Space, Community Design, Transportation, Energy, Waste Management, Cultural Heritage, and Economy—criteria developed through work with the Cape Cod Commission (CCC). Through careful consideration, the David Center was sited upland, well above flood zones, away from vernal pools, and outside historic areas. Through the CCC engagement, sensitive areas within the campus were placed into permanent conservation, allowing for construction in robust and resilient zones. The design carefully manages water by using native vegetation and water recharge areas within the site disturbance. The project further supports resiliency on campus by creating flexible space on the building’s third level, designed for future needs, including additional program relocations away from the waterfront and as swing space for existing building rehabilitation.
The building includes programs that catalyze the institution’s research enterprises by co-locating resources that facilitate collaboration, rapid development, prototyping, and testing of new approaches in resource-rich engineering laboratories. Exterior volumes are designed to conserve energy, respond to interior programs, and reflect the surrounding habitat. The David Center invites our global community to share an understanding of our fragile ocean ecosystems.
Architect of Record: DSK Dewing Schmid Kearns Architects and Planners
Completion: 2021
Jury comments: The David Center for Ocean Innovation breaks the mold of a traditional, mundane, and technical lab space. The designers were able to show its unique building characteristics through playing with a variety of exterior materials and offering flexible workspaces. The restraint in the building envelope is quite elegant.
Client: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Images/Photographer(s): Anton Grassl Architectural Photography Project or Construction Manager: Consigli Construction Civil Engineer: Holmes & McGrath Specifications: Architx Structural: BVH Integrated Services, a Salas O’Brien Company Mechanical: BVH Integrated Services, a Salas O’Brien Company Electrical: BVH Integrated Services, a Salas O’Brien Company Plumbing: BVH Integrated Services, a Salas O’Brien Company Acoustics: Acentech Audio Visual: BVH Integrated Services, a Salas O’Brien Company Landscaping: Stimson Lighting: Vector Lighting Design LLC Owners Project Manager: CSL Consulting
