Gradient Canopy

I spent the afternoon at Google’s Gradient Canopy designed by Bjarke Ingels Group [BIG] and Heatherwick Studio. Actually there are three canopy structures on the site. The exterior roof envelope is constructed out of shaped steel panels, draped between steel masts. Since the shaped roof panels do not align exactly, clerestory windows fill in the gaps. That detail allows for natural daylighting within the building, as well as varying the overall ceiling heights. Sustainability was a primary goal for Google, thus each canopy is clad with photovoltaic panels that generate additional electrical energy. While in Cupertino, I also visited Norman Foster’s Apple Park, which was exquisitely designed, but barely visible due to Olin’s opaque landscaping.