Project Description
THE BULB’s shape celebrates the Culture of Innovation and of New Ideas, thus defining the Soul of Silicon Valley. The Spirit of San José is represented with the Seal of the City, the Spectacular Lighting Set of Filament LED Sources (Wheat Bunch) and the Terrace Garden Bar/Restaurant (Purple Grapes).
The Bulb Dimensions, both in Plan and in Section, are inspired by the Form of the Original San José Electric Light Tower. The Height is 200 feet calculated from the Ground, but if you consider the Basement, the height is the same as the Original; 237 feet. Located in the Eastern Side of the Park is visible from Highway 87. From the Sky, will look like the Internet Position Indicator.
The Bulb is accessible from Main Stairs from the Park or via 2 Ramps/ Memorial from the Auditorium side. Inscribed along the Walls are all the Names of the Generous Donors. The Foyer/Entry is an Underground Square that includes a Visitor Center, Book Shop, Amenities. Below the square, an Auditorium/Piazza with 300 seats and a Conference Hall. A Meeting Point as the heart of the community. Above the Square, the base with a Semi-transparent Kinetic Facade comprises of Temporary Exhibition Gallery arranged through Helical Ramps. At the Base of the Glass Bulb, there is a Garden Terrace incorporating a Wine Bar. One level above, a Restaurant is situated, overlooking the Park. At the topmost level, sits the Lookout, with Views of the Surrounding Cityscape and serviced by a Café-Bar. A 30-foot Flagpole terminates the Internal Vertical Space.
A World-Class Destination designed according to Net-Zero Energy Principles which incorporates Transparent Photovoltaic and Kinetic Facade. Collection of Rainwater and Kinetic Light Sources with Timeclock Controls are also proposed, thus respecting the Riparian Corridor. The Top of the Glass Bulb is screened, thus avoiding Up-lighting beyond the Building Height with respect to the Flight Path Zone.
This Iconic Urban Landmark, with a Strong Visual Presence at a Distance, is a Mix of Modern Technology, History, Architecture, Engineering and Art. A Vibrant Place-Making for Varies Day & Night Activities.
Part of the Design Strategy is to also redevelop the West Side of the Park with a Children Playground and Food/Ice-Cream Kiosks. Refurbishment of the Existing Bridge between the West Side and Confluence Point makes possible extending it to the Eastside. Landscape Design and Urban Art are part of an Integrated Holistic Proposal, ensuring a Successful Project.