Cal Polytechnic State University Warren J. Baker Center for Science & Mathematics

Science Meets Innovation.

Project Overview

The Warren J. Baker Center for Science and Mathematics is one of California Polytechnic State University’s signature academic buildings and serves as the home of the College of Science and Mathematics. Designed by the internationally recognized architectural firm Zimmer Gunsul Frasca (ZGF), the building was envisioned as a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment that encourages interaction between students, faculty, and researchers while providing state-of-the-art teaching and laboratory facilities.

CSI Architectural Metal was selected to fabricate approximately 33 metric tons of Rheinzink Pre-Patina Graphite-Gray into the CSI-LG-Angled Seam Wall Panel System, producing the building’s distinctive vertical metal façade. The custom-fabricated panels complement the brick architecture while providing crisp shadow lines, exceptional weather resistance, and a clean, contemporary appearance.

CSI Scope of Work

CSI Architectural Metal fabricated the complete architectural wall panel system utilizing its proprietary CSI-LG-Angled Seam Wall Panel System. The project required precision fabrication and close coordination with the architect and installer to maintain consistent panel alignment, reveal spacing, and clean transitions throughout the building envelope.

The CSI-LG system provides:

• Concealed-fastened rainscreen wall construction
• Crisp architectural shadow lines
• Accommodation for thermal movement
• Long-term weather protection
• High dimensional accuracy
• Efficient installation while maintaining premium architectural aesthetics
• Installation was successfully completed by Eberhard SMC, whose craftsmanship brought the architectural vision to life with exceptional quality.

Architectural Significance

Designed by Zimmer Gunsul Frasca (ZGF), one of the world’s leading architectural firms for higher education and research facilities, the Warren J. Baker Center was conceived as more than simply a classroom building. The design creates transparent, collaborative learning environments that encourage interaction across multiple scientific disciplines while establishing a new architectural landmark for the Cal Poly campus.

The contrast between the warm masonry and the precisely detailed Rheinzink façade creates a timeless architectural composition that continues to perform beautifully years after completion.

Sustainability

The Warren J. Baker Center achieved LEED Gold Certification, recognizing the project’s commitment to sustainable design, energy efficiency, and environmentally responsible construction. The naturally weathering Rheinzink façade contributes to the building’s durability and long service life while requiring minimal maintenance.

Awards & Recognition

UC Berkeley Center for the Built Environment

2017 Livable Buildings Award

The Warren J. Baker Center received the prestigious Center for the Built Environment (CBE) Livable Buildings Award, presented by the University of California, Berkeley.

Unlike many architectural awards that are judged immediately after construction, the Livable Buildings Award is based on actual occupant satisfaction and measured building performance, making it one of the most respected recognitions in the building industry.

Faculty, staff, and students rated the Baker Center exceptionally highly for:

• Overall building quality
• Comfort
• Daylighting
• Indoor environmental quality
• Collaboration spaces
• User satisfaction

This award recognizes buildings that continue to perform successfully years after completion rather than relying solely on architectural appearance.

A Landmark Academic Facility

Today, the Warren J. Baker Center is recognized as one of California Polytechnic State University’s premier academic buildings and serves as the centerpiece of the College of Science and Mathematics. The project has become an important example of sustainable campus architecture, demonstrating how thoughtful design, quality materials, and precision fabrication can create an educational environment that remains both functional and architecturally significant for decades.

The Rheinzink façade continues to weather naturally while maintaining the clean, refined appearance intended by the architects.

CSI Architectural Metal

This project demonstrates CSI Architectural Metal’s expertise in fabricating complex architectural façade systems for nationally recognized institutional projects. The CSI-LG-Angled Seam Wall Panel System delivered the precision, durability, and architectural quality required by one of the nation’s leading universities and one of the industry’s most respected architectural firms.



The Warren J. Baker Center remains an excellent example of CSI’s commitment to engineering excellence, precision fabrication, and delivering architectural metal systems that perform beautifully for generations.