Evergreen Valley College Automotive Technology Building
San Jose-Evergreen Community College District
Recognizing that automotive technology is no longer existing in just a greasy garage, the new Automotive Technology Building at Evergreen Valley College was designed to ensure that graduates are prepared for the workplaces waiting for them. Working with instructors, facilities staff, and administration, along with industry partners, the design team created a cutting-edge technical facility with daylit vehicle bays, advanced diagnostic computer systems, and hands-on learning environments sized and equipped for modern vehicles, including hybrids.
With a focus on allowing daylighting to serve as the main light source and providing the optimum work environment for detailed technical training, simplicity, order and cleanliness within the spaces were key design drivers. Natural daylighting minimizes power usage across the high bay spaces, while natural ventilation strategies helped push the project well beyond its initial LEED Silver target. The building ultimately achieved LEED Platinum.
