Emery Station West

Emery Station West, located in Emeryville, California, epitomizes sustainable urban development and modern architectural design.

Project Partners

Perkins&Will

Perkins&Will is a globally recognized architecture and design firm celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Specializing in healthcare, education, and corporate sectors.

DPR Construction

DPR Construction is a leading commercial general contractor renowned for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. Specializing in healthcare, advanced technology, and life sciences sectors.

Used in this project

Site Furnishings

‍Project Details

• Project Name: Emery Station West
• Location: Emeryville, California, USA
• Year: 2019
• Architect: Perkins&Will
• Firm (Contractor): DPR Construction

Product Used: Site Furnishing

Press and Additional Resources

• Wareham Development - Emery Station West
• DPR Construction Project Page
• Project Details PDF

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Emery Station West, located in Emeryville, California, is a striking example of how sustainable design and modern architecture can transform an urban landscape. Completed in 2019, this large-scale development was envisioned by the award-winning architectural firm Perkins&Will and brought to life through the expertise of DPR Construction. Commissioned by Wareham Development, Emery Station West was designed as a mixed-use, transit-oriented facility that integrates research, office, and community functions into a single cohesive campus. With its innovative design and focus on environmental responsibility, the project earned the prestigious LEED Gold certification, cementing its place as a benchmark for sustainable urban development in the Bay Area. At the heart of the project’s outdoor design strategy lies a thoughtful approach to site furnishing. To complement the bold architectural lines and the environmentally conscious building systems, the design team selected wood benches crafted from Black Locust Lumber. These wooden benches serve both functional and symbolic purposes. Functionally, they provide comfortable, durable, and low-maintenance seating for employees, visitors, and members of the local community who interact with the site daily. Symbolically, they reinforce the project’s commitment to materials that embody sustainability and longevity. The use of black locust lumber was a deliberate and forward-thinking choice. Known as one of the hardest and most durable North American hardwoods, black locust is naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects, eliminating the need for chemical treatments or preservatives. This intrinsic durability makes it particularly well-suited for site furnishings like wood benches, which must withstand constant use and exposure to outdoor elements. Unlike many imported tropical hardwoods that come at a high ecological cost, black locust lumber is locally sourced, renewable, and environmentally responsible, further enhancing Emery Station West’s sustainability credentials. Aesthetically, the wooden benches made from black locust lumber bring warmth and natural beauty to the otherwise sleek and modern architectural setting. The golden-brown tones of the lumber create a visually pleasing contrast against concrete, glass, and steel surfaces, softening the hardscape and offering a welcoming environment for relaxation and social interaction. The benches are strategically placed throughout the exterior spaces of Emery Station West, encouraging engagement with the building’s landscaped areas and supporting the project’s mission of fostering community connections. The inclusion of wood benches also aligns with Perkins&Will’s holistic design philosophy, which seeks to create spaces that prioritize human well-being alongside environmental performance. By incorporating natural, renewable materials such as black locust lumber, the project contributes to a healthier public realm where people can gather, rest, and enjoy outdoor space in an urban setting. Ultimately, Emery Station West exemplifies how sustainable materials and thoughtful site design can elevate the overall experience of a development. The integration of wooden benches built from black locust lumber is not merely a design detail—it is a key component of the project’s identity, representing durability, ecological responsibility, and the seamless blending of modern architecture with natural elements. These benches will continue to provide utility and beauty for decades to come, standing as a testament to both the resilience of black locust wood and the vision behind Emery Station West.