Orchid 
The new two-story, 52,000 sq.ft. Public Health Lab at the County Operations Center exemplifies a forward-thinking blend of innovation, wellness, and sustainability. Certified LEED Platinum, the lab redefines civic infrastructure through its integration of safety, transparency, and flexibility—supporting cutting-edge research in a warm, collaborative environment. The new facility will also serve as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Laboratory Response Network Lab for San Diego and Imperial Counties.
Architecturally, the building draws from its campus context with precast concrete panels and rhythmic window patterns, reinterpreted with modern massing tectonics. Interior spaces prioritize daylight and biophilic design, with sculptural staircases along glazed facades, corridors filled with borrowed light and framed views. These features connect labs, offices, and communal areas in a vibrant and engaging sequence.
Sustainable design is integral: low-carbon concrete and steel, solar power, and natural ventilation reduce embodied carbon by 23%. Located along the campus’s central art spine, the building features five public art installations, including a COVID-19 memorial garden and a large-scale microscope sculpture—honoring science and resilience.
By embodying civic pride—This project stands as a refined example of good place-making: technically excellent and environmentally responsible. These Goals are deeply rooted from the County’s mission.
A truly special project that continues the long-list of great buildings at the COC campus.
This is fantastic LEED Platinum Facility which demonstrates the County of San Diego’s stewardship of the public trust / public safety , by delivering a building that respects the public while equally supporting, protecting, and inspiring our first responders, valued scientists, engineers and lab staff. The people in this building are saving lives!
What an impressive achievement. A health lab that not only serves the community but also leads by example in sustainability — LEED Platinum, natural ventilation, and low-carbon materials. This is exactly what modern architecture should strive for. 🌱✨
Excelete!
Beautiful architecture.
Fantastic and modern architecture.
Wow!!! Beatyfull project
Congrats
You’ve created a design that’s not only sharp but also reinforces the credibility of the lab, outstanding work.
Beautiful
Hermoso proyecto .. armonía y funcionalidad !!!
This state-of-the-art facility stands as a testament for the hard-working professionals; those work behind the scenes to protect the public health and ensure safety for all County residents. Now they have a space that reflects excellence if their work and the value we place on their contributions.
This was a great design with well-executed coordination by the San Diego team at Steinberg Hart. The project stands out not only for its architecture but also for its sustainability goals — proof that good design can be planet-friendly too. A real win for the project and the city.
A much needed project
Beautiful Project
Looks great.! 👍 beautiful project
Bonito proyecto, felicidades
Love it! Beautiful project!!💕
Bonito proyecto
Love the design! It’s both beautiful and practical
Confortable e iluminado… 👍
Excelent proyect
Amazing attention to detail. I love it. It is bright and airy and incorporates functionality with beauty.
Great project!
Greatest design of all
Muy bonito proyecto!!😍
Beautiful design and functional
Muchaa felicidades
A beautiful design building
This is a great design that incorporates the duties of the Public Health Lab into it’s architecture.
Beautiful design and functionality. Excited for the great work ahead. Our communities will greatly benefit.
This turned out so beautiful, I love the giant magnifier when it’s lit up at night!