The County of San Diego Public Health Laboratory received the 2026 Project of the Year Award in the Structures, $26-75 million category from the American Public Works Association (APWA) San Diego/Imperial Chapter.

The APWA Public Works Project of the Year Award recognizes excellence in delivering public works projects by honoring the successful collaboration between the owner, consultant, architect/engineer, and contractor.

Located at the dynamic Campus of the County Operations Center, the two-story Public Health Lab embodies a perfect fusion of modernism and sustainability. The design integrates seamlessly with its surroundings, mirroring the master plan’s essence through its use of grounded, heavy precast concrete panels combined with rhythmic modular windows along the Campus Central Art spine and pedestrian pathway. The lab diverges from conventional designs by introducing a timeless elegant of floating metal overhang over the concrete base. This feature not only adds an element of contemporary elegance but also serves a practical purpose by protecting the entryway from the harsh southern sun, creating a play of light and shadow that enhances the building’s aesthetic. Inside, the lab achieves a balance of materials with sleek glass, silver metal tectonics, and warm wood, creating a welcoming, collaborative environment that complements the adjacent Office Buildings. Design features such as sculptural staircases adjacent to extensive glass walls promote a healthy, open workspace filled with natural light.