Case Study: University of California, Davis achieves lower embodied carbon and major energy savings with Thornton Tomasetti

University of California, Davis targets 52% energy reduction with Thornton Tomasetti

The University of California, Davis required a new research hub for agricultural innovation with a fixed budget and the need for seismic resilience. They engaged Thornton Tomasetti for structural engineering and sustainability consulting to design a facility that would meet stringent lab requirements while targeting LEED Platinum certification.

Thornton Tomasetti implemented a hybrid structural system, using mass timber for classrooms and steel for the laboratories and lateral system. This approach reduced the project's embodied carbon and met vibration criteria. Through energy modeling and system optimizations, Thornton Tomasetti helped the all-electric building achieve a 52% energy reduction, positioning it for LEED Platinum certification.

University of California, Davis