The Gregory Bateson Building, a historic structure owned by the State of California, was considered trailblazer in sustainable design during its construction in 1981, under the visionary guidance of sustainability pioneer and State Architect Sim van der Ryn. It included features like passive cooling, ventilation and a night flush system, positioning itself as a beacon of innovation in low-energy office spaces, particularly adept at withstanding Sacramento's warm summers. These sustainable approaches stemmed from the urgent challenges posed by the 1970s energy crisis and the mounting environmental concerns voiced by California policymakers.
More than 40 years later, this historic building was due for an upgrade, which was delivered by CannonDesign, McCarthy Building Companies and the Department of General Services (DGS) via the progressive design-build delivery method. This is one of the first progressive design-build projects in the history of the California Department of General Services. The goal was to transform the building into a modern, LEED Platinum workplace to house California State agencies and DGS Facilities Maintenance.
The Gregory Bateson Building exemplifies a commitment to sustainability through extensive modernization efforts. It retains the historical exterior while transforming the interior into a space that prioritizes both environmental and human wellness. The building's downtown Sacramento location encourages public transportation and community engagement. Human sustainability is integral, with features like lactation rooms, break rooms, lounges, and collaborative spaces designed for wellness and inclusivity. This project not only revitalizes a historical building but serves as a model for integrating modern sustainability principles into renovation projects.