The design of the California College of the Arts Campus Expansion in San Francisco stands as a bold example of forward-thinking architecture, blending mass timber with galvanized steel to achieve both sustainability and performance. By incorporating cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam beams, the project drastically reduces its carbon footprint compared to traditional 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.

This meticulously crafted material palette strikes the perfect balance between sustainability and resilience, showcasing how hybrid construction systems can optimize both environmental responsibility and the functional, aesthetic demands of modern architecture.