Introduction to the Project
Bioterra set a new standard for sustainable innovation as San Diego’s first all-electric life science building. Developed by Longfellow Real Estate Partners, this cutting-edge, 5-story, 323,000 sq. ft. facility seamlessly blends modern design with forward-thinking technology. With support from the California Energy Design Assistance (CEDA) program, Bioterra integrated advanced energy efficiency measures, ensuring the building not only meets but exceeds sustainability standards.
Beyond its impressive architecture, Bioterra offers an ideal space for research and collaboration. From the lobby to the exclusive Loft area on the top floor, designed for tenant relaxation and networking, every aspect of Bioterra was crafted to foster community and progress. With state-of-the-art labs and offices, plus amenities like a fitness center, event space, and terrace, Bioterra is more than just a workspace—it’s a blueprint for the future of life sciences.
Overview Facts
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Construction type: New Construction
- Project type: Office
- Project Area: 323,000 sq. ft.
Project Team
- Developer: Longfellow Real Estate Partners
- Architect: HOK Los Angeles
Estimated Energy Savings & Incentives
- 118,841kg Annual CO2e Savings
- $110,000 Total Incentive
Project Goals
The primary goal of this all-electric life science building was to create flexible, dynamic spaces that cater to life science tenants, from startups to large pharmaceutical companies, and everything in between. In addition to supporting the diverse needs of these businesses, Longfellow Real Estate Partners aimed to make Bioterra an all-electric building, prioritizing energy efficiency and cost savings for tenants. This approach aligns with Longfellow’s commitment to leading the way in environmentally sustainable and socially responsible developments.
Electrification and Sustainability Measures
Bioterra’s design maximized natural light with 18-foot ceilings on the first floor, 15-foot ceilings on floors 2 through 5, and floor-to-ceiling glass throughout the building. Each floor included expansive patios that provided additional tenant space while also serving as shades for the floors below. This thoughtful design reduced heat gain and lowered energy consumption for cooling, contributing to the building’s overall energy efficiency.
In addition to these passive strategies, Bioterra implemented several key energy-saving measures to align with California’s long-term electrification goals and enhance grid resiliency. The life science building’s all-electric design aimed to capture significant long- term energy savings.
- All-Electric HVAC System: The system features high-efficiency chillers, an air-cooled heat pump, and a heat recovery chiller, optimizing overall performance.
- Centralized Water Heating: A centralized heat pump system was installed for service water heating, maximizing efficiency and cost savings.This measure is estimated to:
- Avoid 12,675 therms of energy annually
- Achieve 19,050 kg annual CO2e savings
The building was designed with LEED standards in mind, targeting a LEED Gold certification, the second highest level of achievement in sustainable building practices. This reflects Bioterra’s commitment to addressing climate change and supporting ESG goals. Additionally, the building is expected to achieve Fitwel certification, emphasizing not only environmental sustainability but also the health and well-being of its occupants and the surrounding community.
Client Testimonial
“Longfellow is very satisfied with the results of Bioterra, being the first All-Electric Life Science Building in San Diego. From the onset of the project, Longfellow set out to build a sustainable life science and pursing LEED Gold and Fitwel certification fit into this goal. Longfellow’s experience with the CEDA program has been very positive in that it allows Longfellow to promote sustainable developments, like Bioterra, to a large audience while also connecting Longfellow to other entities taking part in sustainable design.”
– David Heilbrunn
Project Executive
