San Jose

CLIMATE ACTION NOTES

Printed on FSC-Certified Paper
Printed at a Carbon Neutral Facility

CLIENT

Westbank x San Jose

Each book in this limited edition set represents the unique perspective of an internationally acclaimed architect for the San Jose sustainability renewal initiative. Custom printed linen covers and the individually unique layout design of each book expresses not only the innovative architecture but the spirit and harmony created by its respect for nature. The collection is an anthology of beauty and purpose in design.

This is the founding vision for Park Habitat, a commercial building designed by world-renowned Kengo Kuma, that integrates the beauty and serenity of nature.

At the heart of Park Habitat is a “green lung,” an open space that travels from the ground floor to the top of the building, inviting light and air to permeate the structure.

A pull-out feature inside the book mirrors this functionality, showcasing the architectural feature and serving as a metaphor for the “green lung.”

“This historic building is part of the record of our past, and in looking to the past, we can often see the way forward.”

—IAN GILLESPIE, WESTBANK

Westbank invited Bjarke Ingels Studio to reimagine the historic Bank of Italy Building in downtown San Jose.

BIG’s new vision for the historic building, built by Italian immigrant Amadeo Giannini in 1926, respects the past while forging a new future.

Contemporary finishings like brass and formed concrete sit side by side with historic columns and ornaments.