Von Karman
Creative Campus

The design goal for VKCC was to create a connection between buildings through a green belt that adapts to the new work environment for the creative generation. The green belt was specifically designed to be a multi-functional hub that encourages gatherings, serendipitous meetings, socializing, playing, and relaxing throughout. The main pathway connecting the campus is an interpretation of a stream of water flowing through and directing movement. The pathway not only acts as the main link, but also engages the main zones which were designed to allow for different functions in a way that enhances engagement with the landscaped environment. The campus center was strategically located to become the nucleus of the campus and becomes the main social hub. It is spatially defined by “the feather” which is a physical representation of movement and dynamic environment that is now a defining characteristic of the site. The Grove creates another special moment that engages and promotes interaction and serves as a daily destination for lunch. The café and organic benches are nestled within a group of trees, making for a cozy and pleasant landscaped setting. The active zone is a multi-functional space that was designed to promote physical activity and casual gatherings. It is home to a multi-sport court and becomes a main destination for play. This amenity-rich campus environment creates flexible spaces that meet the needs of the user and fully adapts to the creative generation.

Architecture

Mixed Use

Lighting

Design

Branding & Content

Video

Awards

AIA OC Design , IES Excellence in Illumination

Client

Equity Office

Location

Irvine, CA

24 acres of
inspiration

With 9 buildings, divided into 3 parcels, and 24 acres of space, the Von Karmen Creative Campus presented as many opportunities as it did challenges. Its sprawling, disjointed space made navigating the individual buildings feel more like going through a maze. Our mission was to go beyond just cleaning up the space between the buildings, but to turn the property into one massive interconnected experience.

fresh air
fresh ideas

The Active Zone is the main destination for play. It is a multifunctional space designed to promote activity, casual gatherings, and features a multi-sport court.

By incorporating pieces of everyday life and creating spaces to collaborate outside the office, this amenity-rich campus creates flexible spaces that meet the needs of the user and creates a wide variety of unique experiences.

work harder
play harder

The Grove creates a moment that engages and promotes interaction and serves as a daily destination for lunch. The café and organic benches are nestled within a group of trees, making for a cozy and pleasant landscaped setting.

By offering games like corn-hole, users are able to enjoy the landscape around them and return to the office refreshed.