One Research Drive, a four-story research and academic building on Clemson University’s CU-ICAR campus, features flexible research and office space for innovators and entrepreneurs supporting the region’s automotive cluster. Located on a prominent entry into Technology Neighborhood 1, the building expresses the campus’ technology focus with sleek metal, glass and concrete facades. The transparency of the design visually connects the advanced technologies inside the building with the connecting pedestrian plaza.
The 84,000 GSF facility offers high-bay lab space with on-grade access and flexible, easily reconfigured office suites. An exposed multi-floor structural truss framework maximizes open space internally while creating cantilevered overhangs and exterior balconies to encourage outdoor interactions. The fourth floor incorporates a 2,000 SF shaded roof terrace.
The steel superstructure supports a layered envelope of insulated metal panels, pre-cast concrete panels, and energy-efficient glass shaded by strategically configured perforated stainless steel solar screens. The building orientation takes advantage of diffuse light and views onto the plaza on the north, while striated insulated metal panel walls shelter the western exposure. Strategic angled vertical mesh panels to the east and south reduce glare and provide shading while maintaining transparency.
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