Photo by Ed Asmus Photography

MEP and building systems were upgraded and historic details were restored.

Featuring $35 million of mostly behind-the-scenes MEP and building systems updates on a circa-1928 structure, the project included what team members say is the first known California use of a high-mist fire protection system. It uses 80% less water and smaller piping than traditional systems. Crews restored historic fixtures, exterior granite and terra-cotta. Window restoration required scaffolding around the entire building, secured by temporary anchors in the grout lines. Judges cited the team's use of the "methods-of-procedure" process to ensure that historical elements were unscathed and all parties were in agreement, from design documents to construction methods.

Key Players

Contractor Arntz Builders, Novato

Owner California Dept. of General Services, Sacramento

Construction Manager Vanir Construction Management, Sacramento

Lead Design Carey & Co., San Francisco

Structural Engineer Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, San Francisco

Civil Engineer Winzler & Kelly, San Francisco

MEP Engineer Flack + Kurtz Inc., San Francisco