The design of the California College of the Arts Campus Expansion in San Francisco showcases a forward-thinking hybrid structural approach, integrating mass timber with galvanized steel to achieve both sustainability and performance. By incorporating mass timber—comprising cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam beams—the project significantly reduces its overall carbon footprint compared to conventional construction methods, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable design.

To address additional strength and durability, hot-dip galvanized steel was strategically incorporated into the structure. Steel elements provide critical support to the timber framework, ensuring structural integrity without compromising the aesthetic intent. Given the steel’s exposure, hot-dip galvanizing was specified to deliver robust corrosion protection, guaranteeing long-term performance in San Francisco's varying environmental conditions. Additionally, the specification called for a duplex coating to aesthetically blend the steel and the timber. The carefully considered material palette balances sustainability with resilience, offering architects a compelling model of how hybrid construction systems can optimize environmental responsibility while meeting the functional and visual demands of modern architecture.