Engineering a Living Roof Through Iconic Curved Structural Steel

The California Academy of Sciences features an iconic steel canopy that replicates the seven hills of San Francisco, forming the foundation for its innovative living roof system. This architecturally complex structure seamlessly blends sustainability, engineering, and design excellence.

Rolled Steel Beams Supporting the Seven Hills

Each of the seven hills within the steel canopy houses a major programmatic feature of the building and is fully framed with structural steel. Rising an impressive 98 feet above the main exhibit hall, the hills are supported by rolled curved steel beams engineered to span the entire width of the structure.

Curved Beam Engineering and Structural Precision

The rolled beams vary in depth from 18 to 24 inches and range in weight from 60 to 200 pounds per foot. Individual beams measure approximately 100 feet in length, with the heaviest weighing nearly 20,000 pounds. Through SME’s precision fabrication and meticulous attention to detail, every beam fit flawlessly into place during installation.

Steel-Framed Domes and Advanced 3D Coordination

Beneath the two largest hills are independent steel-framed domes that required highly accurate three-dimensional coordination. Every intersection point was defined using precise 3D coordinates, ensuring structural integrity and seamless integration with the surrounding steel framework.

Elevated Walkway and Architectural Steel Features

One of the domes is encircled by a meandering elevated walkway that gradually rises as it wraps around the structure twice. This walkway is supported by a 20-inch steel pipe center spine, showcasing both structural efficiency and architectural elegance.

AESS Bridges and LEED Platinum Certification

Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel (AESS) bridges provide striking visual accents throughout the project, reinforcing its refined craftsmanship. The California Academy of Sciences ultimately achieved LEED Platinum certification, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and innovative construction.

Showcasing SME Craftsmanship and Expertise

The complexity of the design, coupled with exacting fabrication and detailing, highlights the exceptional skill, ingenuity, and craftsmanship that define SME. This landmark project stands as a testament to SME’s ability to deliver world-class structural steel solutions for architecturally demanding environments.

03/25/2008

1,400 tons of steel

California Academy of Sciences

Webcor Builders, Inc

Renzo Piano Building Workshop