Phase 2 of Prologis Oakland Global Logistics Center masterplan continues RMW’s redevelopment vision for the decommissioned Oakland Army Base with a 232,785 GSF industrial warehouse and distribution facility, now partially occupied by organic meal kit depot, Good Eggs. This highly visible development anchors the intersection of I-980 through downtown Oakland, southbound I-880 to Silicon Valley and I-580, leading north to the heart of Marin County, just nine miles west of San Francisco.
The project’s exterior design, while modern in expression, draws its primary cues from traditional architectural sensibilities that recommend the celebration of a building’s primary corners, in this case, expressed by the introduction of significant concrete “wing wall” elements. Directly adjacent to each wing wall, a vertical but narrow glass curtain-wall element suggests the wing wall is spacially separated from the main structure, implying it is free-standing, free balanced, or even pulling at the main structure, drawing it forward. These vertical elements are then counter-balanced by horizontal ribbons of spandrel and vision glazing, bordered above by a shadow casting foam banding frame that hints at a second-floor level. These “entry focused” elements align and translate into a well-proportioned, well-tailored reveal pattern that, with the use of subtle color shifts, stitches together the remaining elements of the façade. Additional refinements, including parapet height variations, reclaimed wood plank siding accents, and composite aluminum clad entry canopies further reinforce the outcome: A cohesive composition of sculptural forms and rhythms that in concert create a high level of visual interest while deemphasizing the overall scale and magnitude of the structure.
Project Location
Oakland, CA
United States