A Net-Zero Building in Silicon Valley Gracefully Encompasses Both Work and Play

636 Waverley’s "ribbon" of concrete defines bright, pleasant spaces while providing weather protection.

A Net-Zero Building in Silicon Valley Gracefully Encompasses Both Work and Play

636 Waverley’s "ribbon" of concrete defines bright, pleasant spaces while providing weather protection.

Scroll to meet the winner of Andersens Bright Ideas Design Award in the multifamily category, and see all the brilliant nominees here

Hayes Group Architects sought to reimagine mixed-use architecture in Palo Alto with this innovative project. It’s situated in a "transitional and eclectic" neighborhood close to downtown, as president Ken Hayes notes, on a cramped and narrow site that didn’t allow for any setbacks.

The living spaces of 636 Waverley by Hayes Group Architects, Inc., feature outdoor terraces wrapped in glass.

The living spaces of 636 Waverley by Hayes Group Architects feature outdoor terraces wrapped in glass.

Courtesy of Hayes Group Architects

"Our work is about how modern forms, materials, and programs are integrated into urban infill environments," Hayes says. "We want people to have the most favorable living and working experiences, so we included an abundance of solar-protected lighting solutions."

A review view of the structure reveals its monolithic form in concrete.

A review view of the structure reveals its monolithic form in concrete.

Courtesy of Hayes Group Architects

The team aimed to integrate commercial and residential components into the rather compact site while using just three main materials—glass, wood, and concrete—and making the entire building as sustainable as possible. The result is a clean-lined, minimalist structure with commercial spaces on the first and second floors and apartment units on the third and fourth floors. 

Inside, opening living spaces flow outdoors onto private decks.

Inside, open living spaces flow outdoors onto private decks. 

Courtesy of Hayes Group Architects

See the full story on Dwell.com: A Net-Zero Building in Silicon Valley Gracefully Encompasses Both Work and Play
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