Placer County Community Development Resource Center

Auburn, California

A flexible design keeping the future in mind

Placer County was in need of housing several different agencies under one roof that had previously been housed separately. The design of the building focused on functionality for the users and flexibility of the space for the Building, Planning, Public Works, Administration, Environmental Health, and Air Pollution Control departments. Inside, we created a warm, inviting lobby and permit counter for the customers who visit the building to process permits, etc., with light from the windows, warm brick and wood, and inviting seats to wait or work. The permit counter reflects the same hospitality and incorporates a flexible design keeping the future in mind.Our design also included providing longevity, energy efficiency, durability, and ease of maintenance while accommodating for future growth. We oriented the building for the greatest solar impact while preserving the existing mature trees on site. Then we implemented a range of energy conserving features in all facets of the building’s construction and operation, which resulted in exceeding California’s Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standards by 44%.