California Sheet Metal (CSM) fabricated and installed the complete exterior metal façade for Bioterra, a 323,000-square-foot life sciences complex in San Diego. The highly complex scope included the installation of integrating custom plate panels, trellis structures, canopy systems, mechanical screenings, louvers, and stainless steel detailing.
Architectural Panel Systems
CSM delivered a precision-fabricated façade featuring 2mm Alfrex aluminum plate panels in bronze and a custom wood-grain finish designed to mimic the surrounding Torrey Pine trees and seamlessly blend the building into the natural landscape. To manage complex multi-plane intersections and complex pre-cut miters, the fabrication team used CNC-located bend lines and rigorous quality validation.
Aluminum Trellis System
The aluminum trellis system was designed to mirror the building’s angular profile and incorporate a custom light pocket to create a dramatic upward wash of illumination at night. To assemble the 800-pound upper trellis components, the CSM team had to fabricate custom lifting beams, chain falls, and winches to successfully raise and connect the massive parts to the structure.
Delivery & Community Impact
California Sheet Metal is proud to have contributed to Bioterra, a 323,000 square foot life sciences facility that reflects the future of sustainable architectural design. Through advanced fabrication, meticulous coordination, and installation expertise, CSM helped shape a façade system that blends innovation, craftsmanship, and environmental integration.
General Contractor: McCarthy Building Companies
Year of Completion: 2024
Architect: Hellmuth, Obata, & Kassabaum, Inc.
Role: Architectural Metal Panels & General Sheet Metal
Location: San Diego, CA
