Named after former lab director and U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu, the three-story, 40,000-sq-ft laboratory at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) develops energy from sunlight using nanoscale photovoltaic and electrochemical solar energy systems. The skin of the $59-million facility comprises aluminum composite metal panels, energy- efficient glazing and architectural concrete, which required formwork allowing for full liquid head placement, eliminating pour lift lines.
Inside, an open-plan design supports interdisciplinary collaboration while also providing space for research. A courtyard serves as a meeting point for researchers from the lab and neighboring buildings.