We’re excited to share our pivotal role in providing architectural and structural engineering services for the groundbreaking $700 million UC Berkeley Campus-Wide Clean Energy Electrification Project. This transformative initiative aims to enhance sustainability, reduce carbon emissions, and modernize the infrastructure of one of the nation’s most prestigious educational institutions.
Our architecture and engineering firm, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, has expertise in sustainable design and historic preservation, bringing decades of experience to this endeavor. Our multifaceted involvement encompasses three distinct switch station projects, each representing a critical aspect of the campus-wide electrification effort.
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Switch Station 5 (CC by ND)
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Switch Station 5 (CC by ND)
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Switch Station 5 (CC by ND)
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Restored WPA Mural Detail (CC by ND)
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Rendering of Old Art Gallery - Switch Station 8 (CC by ND)
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UC Berkeley Campus (CC by ND)
Key components of Interactive Resources’ scope of work include:
- Switch Station Projects: Interactive Resources is providing comprehensive architecture and engineering services for three separate switch station projects, serving as the cornerstone of UC Berkeley’s clean energy electrification initiative. These stations will play a pivotal role in facilitating the transition to renewable energy sources and optimizing campus-wide energy distribution.
- Waterproofing of Underground Vaults: Ensuring the longevity and reliability of the campus infrastructure, Interactive Resources is overseeing the waterproofing of underground vaults associated with the switch station projects. This critical aspect of the initiative will safeguard sensitive equipment and electrical components from moisture-related damage, ensuring uninterrupted functionality and reliability.
- Restoration of Historic Masonry Building by John Galen Howard (1903): Interactive Resources is honored to be entrusted with the restoration of a historic masonry building designed by the esteemed architect John Galen Howard and constructed in 1903. One of the earliest buildings on the UC Berkeley Campus, and its original heating plant, is now being renovated as Switch Station #8, the future home of electrical equipment that will route energy throughout campus. Recognized for its architectural significance and cultural heritage, this restoration project underscores Interactive Resources’ commitment to preserving the rich history of UC Berkeley’s campus while integrating modern sustainability practices.
- Restoration of WPA Mural (1936): Interactive Resources is spearheading the restoration of a Works Progress Administration (WPA) mural dating back to 1936. This iconic artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the university’s storied past and will be meticulously restored, ensuring its continued appreciation by future generations of students and visitors alike.
“We are thrilled to be a part of this pioneering initiative to advance sustainability and modernize the infrastructure of UC Berkeley,” said Andrew Butt, Managing Principal at Interactive Resources. “Our firm’s comprehensive approach to architecture, engineering, and historic preservation uniquely positions us to address the complex challenges associated with this project while honoring the university’s rich architectural heritage.”
Interactive Resources’ involvement in the UC Berkeley Campus-Wide Clean Energy Electrification Project exemplifies its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the preservation of cultural heritage. By integrating cutting-edge design principles with a deep respect for history, Interactive Resources is helping to shape a more sustainable and resilient future for UC Berkeley and the surrounding community.