As you log into the computer, the lighting dims to prevent eye strain. Next to you, a coworker reads with natural light streaming into her work area, while across the room colleagues effortlessly change the workspace for an impromptu brainstorming session. Issues of health, individual comfort, organizational flexibility, motivation, productivity and efficiency are studied there. It combines expertise from more than a dozen fields, including electrical and computer engineering, computer science, architecture, urban design, environmental and mechanical engineering. They test alternative workplace practices, provide feedback to manufacturers on their products and examine the recyclability of building materials.
Computerized sensors drive motorized shades, balancing daylight with energy savings.
The roof facility itself is made from recycled steel and aluminum and was designed to sit lightly atop an existing landmark campus building.