The addition of a larger stand-by generator presented a series of aesthetic problems to an aging facility in the central core of the Escondido Business District. The problem was solved by creating an aesthetically pleasing chase for the piping. The horizontal chase became a canopy; an appropriate shading device for the building fronting on Broadway. A vertical chase intersects the canopy to convey the exhaust stack, mechanical ventilation ducting and electrical conduits. This element becomes a marquee for the building. To dissipate heat carried by the exhaust stack, the material chosen is perforated, and to add aesthetic value, durability and low-maintenance, stainless steel was selected.
Population growth of Escondido and its surrounds created an increase in telephone service, and consequently, an addition to the existing Pacific Bell "central office" was highly necessary. The new addition is a Type I building of approximately 19,000 square feet, distributed over three floors. Of prime interest to the client was the ability to add up to three floors to the new structure. This idea requires the building to provide caisson foundations fifteen feet below the surface and massive moment-resisting steel frames. In addition, the limited floor plate required the electrical vault to be placed under ground adjacent to Second Avenue, as well as an adddition to the telephone cable vault along the alley at the back of the building. Budget is over $7,000,000.
The architectural concept presented to the Design Review Committee was formulated to present a friendly and attractive face to the public. A highly articulated facade composed of poured-in-place concrete, textured concrete block, lightly tinted glass and perforated stainless steel was suggested and approved by the City. This addition subtly replaces the existing building and respects the street scale on this important thoroughfare in the Downtown Business District.
Front entry from Second Avenue Overall view of addition Engine stack chase and sidewalk canopy at Broadway
Overall view of addition Engine stack chase and sidewalk canopy at Broadway
Engine stack chase and sidewalk canopy at Broadway
