Orchid 
Nancy Ridge Life Science and Office Building is an adaptive reuse project that transforms a former manufacturing facility into a vibrant Research & Development workplace, fostering innovation, comfort, and engagement with nature. Located just north of Carroll Canyon Open Space, the project contributes to San Diego’s rich life sciences ecosystem by creating a distinct sense of place through indoor-outdoor integration, warm materials, and daily interaction with the landscape.
From the pocket park to the roof deck, the site design encourages users and passersby to linger. The park creates a serene buffer between surface parking lots and doubles as a public amenity. Above, the rooftop provides a shaded workspace with seating embedded next to large planters. A bold exterior stair, clad in perforated black panels, gives the building a memorable identity while encouraging daily movement. As sunlight shifts, shadows animate the façade, creating a dynamic visual experience.
Interior spaces are flexible and filled with daylight. In the workspace, on the west side of the building, floor-to-ceiling glazing offers expansive views into the surrounding biodiverse landscape, while open layouts support evolving workstyles and future adaptability for tenants.
Sustainability strategies include removing turf grass, incorporating permeable paving and bioswales, introducing drought-tolerant planting, and an engaging green roof that also serves as the roof deck’s guardrail. These efforts reduce runoff, support pollinators, and establish a green oasis in a dense urban area, delivering long-term social, environmental, and economic value.