Public-private partnership develops landmark county facility
County Administration South is the first phase of a 20-year civic center master plan intended to improve the County of Orange’s operational efficiency by unifying departments in a central, all-service facility. The LEED Silver project includes a 250,000-square-foot, six-story office tower over two levels of underground parking, plus a freestanding 7,200-square-foot conference center
County Administration South is designed to not only meet—but to exceed—the AIA’s 2030 Commitment to reduce net energy consumption by 70 percent. The design maximizes passive systems such as proper building orientation and solar shading components that control heat gain while maximizing daylight within an efficient envelope. Energy-efficient HVAC systems and lighting controls further reduce energy demands.
Developed through a public-private partnership, the design incorporates many planning concepts and strategies found in private-sector office projects. For citizens, the project offers a modern approach to the public counter experience. The design for the walk-up counter area includes 13 key departments in a single location, allowing the public to address their civic needs in one place.
