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StationProject locationNational City, CAArchitectJeff Katz ArchitectureSan Diego, CAMasonry ContractorDick Miller ConstructionSan Marcos, CABlock ProducerORCO Block Company, Inc.Oceanside, CAPhotographyJeff Katz ArchitectureThis project for the San Diego Unified Port District consistedof the design and construction of a new full ADA compliantcomfort station (restroom facility), storage building, andtrellis area to replace the existing structure at Pepper Parkin National City, California. The designer was told that the characterof the building should be playful and relate to the bay view just stepsaway. The design was expected to coordinate with the the redevelopmentoccurring in that area and to maximize natural light and ventilation.Sustainable design features were also expected to be incorporatedas applicable.The comfort station and storage building are comprised of concretemasonry units (CMUs), a standing seam metal “cool” roof, and an aluminumtrellis. The structure exhibits a unique undulating wave-likemotion in both the roof and exterior walls, which mimics the oceanwaves that are just steps from the building. Daylight capturing skylightswere incorporated to limit the need for electricity during thedaytime and decorative open air style CMU blocks were utilized toprovide natural ventilation. Jeff Katz Architecture worked closelywith District staff and the contractor to deliver the project on time andwithin budget.The durability, ease of maintenance, and cost effectiveness of CMUmade it the logical material selection for the Comfort Station, especiallyconsidering the harsh salt water air blowing off the nearby bay.The wavelike curves of the building were accomplished by laying theCMU block walls out at exact radius points and varying the heights ofeach wall. A mixture of split-face, scored, and precision block of twodifferent colors was used to provide architectural character and give aninteresting texture to the building. The CMU was also treated with anon-sacrificial anti-graffiti coating for ease of cleaning.With this project being smaller and utilitarian, the opportunities toimplement sustainable design strategies were few, however, they weremaximized. The daylight capturing skylights were utilized to providedaylighting and save on daytime energy consumption. Low flow fixtureswere selected to limit water usage, and natural ventilation providedby the bay breeze eliminated the need for an HVAC system.Lastly, a “cool” roof color was selected to minimize the heat islandeffect, as well as the use of low VOC paints and sealants. CMDConcrete Masonry Designs 11