Delta Americas Headquarters

Project Details

Project Description

Delta Americas, a subsidiary of Taiwan-based Delta Electronics, a leading provider of power management and thermal management solutions, was clear in its mission brief that its new headquarters should be designed in the most sustainable manner and delivered in the most efficient method possible. The result is an approximately 180,000 square foot project comprised of a three-story main office building, entry lobby and warehouse building located on a 15.5 acre site in Fremont, California near a wetland. The new headquarters building will employ Delta’s own energy-saving solutions including renewable energy, LED lighting systems, and electronic vehicle charging solutions. The building is targeted to receive LEED Platinum certification and aims to achieve Net –Zero Energy Building Certification.

The project features a high performance building envelope with high insulation in the walls and roof along with spectrally selective glazing. The exterior wall’s abundant glazing takes advantage of the mostly sunny local weather while reducing the need for artificial lighting. A three-story atrium with skylights in the center of the office space brings daylight further into the space. Shading is also considered as the south elevation features horizontal brise-soleil, while the east and west elevations have deep recessed windows. Furthermore, a large canopy above the lobby volume is integrated with BIPV panels consisting of thin film solar cells and photovoltaic inverters of 98% efficiency that Delta developed and produced.

In addition, operable windows provide 100% fresh air natural ventilation and enhanced thermal comfort. A central atrium along with two corner towers in the offices will act as thermal stack ventilation towers using convection to allow hot air to evacuate through louvers at the skylight.

Mechanically, the project showcases a significant number of green features such as a ground source heat pump: This system uses a loop field of pipes underground that transfers heat to or from the ground to boost efficiency and reduce the operational costs of heating and cooling systems. The radiant floor and ceiling system is supplemented by displacement ventilation via ceiling diffusers and active chilled beams in the enclosed conference rooms or offices. The project also utilizes Delta’s energy saving LED lighting solutions in the building and around the site.

In terms of landscape green features, the project will preserve at least 50% of the site as open space with native landscaping plants that will help support wild life. A bio-retention pond with native low-water consumption planting helps in reducing storm water run-off.

In conclusion, by working closely with Delta and various consultants, JJP successfully integrated the functional and technological aspects in a manner appropriate for the site and context, to achieve a result that benefits the environment and advances the cause of architecture.