SPLA collaborated with COArchitects on both the Retina Glaucoma Research Facility and Shiley Eye Center Expansion, which are located in the Medical Research Neighborhood on the East Campus of UCSD – adjacent to Health Sciences Walk and new Cancer Center. The design for the new RGRF and Shiley expansion focused on a central courtyard that links the new and existing facilities, and provides a quiet and intimate space for patients and staff. The patterning of the building structure is transformed into the ground plane with bands of gravel, cobble and native grasses, along with concrete seatwalls, and an informal grove of gingko trees. The courtyard provides patients and staffs a quiet place to meet and socialize promoting a sense of well being and connection to nature.
