06.12.24

Reimagining Urban Workspaces: A Recap from the IIDA and CoreNet IQHQ RaDD Panel + Tour

On May 21st, the innovative IQHQ RaDD development, a pioneering life sciences district and the largest urban commercial waterfront site along California’s Pacific coast, served as the vibrant backdrop for a co-hosted event by IIDA and CoreNet.  The event featured an insightful panel discussion followed by exclusive guided tours of the cutting-edge facility, offering a glimpse into the future of workspace design and urban development.

Setting the Stage with a Panel Discussion

The event commenced with a dynamic panel discussion, bringing together industry leaders Darryl Fullbright (Gensler), Nathan Bishop (Downtown San Diego Partnership), and Brett Ward (Vice Chairman at Cushman and Wakefield) to discuss the project process, outcomes, and the revitalization of downtown San Diego. Moderated by Courtney Kirian (THiNK Office Interiors), the panel delved into the evolution of urban spaces, particularly highlighting the life sciences sector’s expanding influence in the area.

Key Takeaways from the Discussion

The discussion emphasized several critical themes relevant to the development of modern workspaces, especially within the context of life sciences:

1. Innovation in Life Sciences: The panelists underscored the significance of the IQHQ RaDD campus as a life sciences hub designed to foster innovation and collaboration among biotech companies. The development aims to create a thriving ecosystem that attracts top talent and drives scientific advancements.
2. Urban Revitalization: The conversation highlighted the role of the IQHQ campus in revitalizing downtown San Diego. By integrating life sciences with vibrant community spaces, the development seeks to transform the area into a dynamic hub of activity and growth, enhancing both the local economy and the quality of life for residents.
3. Sustainable Design: Sustainability was a key focus, with discussions on how the IQHQ RaDD development incorporates green building practices and energy-efficient systems. The panelists shared insights into the innovative strategies employed to minimize environmental impact while supporting the needs of life sciences research and development.
4. Health and Well-being: The panelists also addressed the increasing emphasis on designing workspaces that prioritize health and well-being. Features such as ample natural light, access to green spaces, and wellness-oriented amenities were highlighted as essential components of modern life sciences campuses.

Immersive Guided Tours

Following the engaging panel discussion, attendees were invited to explore the IQHQ RaDD campus through guided tours led by experts from Gensler, including Nicole Egan, Elif Tinney, Ian Doherty, and Malayne Schmidt. These tours offered an in-depth look at the project’s innovative design and its critical role in the life sciences sector.

Reflections on the Event and Future Prospects

The IIDA and CoreNet event at the IQHQ RaDD campus was a profound exploration of the future of workspaces, with a particular focus on the life sciences industry and urban revitalization. The panel discussion provided valuable insights into the trends shaping these spaces, while the guided tours offered a tangible glimpse into how innovative design principles are being applied to support scientific research and community development.

As the industry continues to evolve, events like this underscore the importance of collaboration and forward-thinking design in creating spaces that are not only functional but also enriching and sustainable. The IQHQ RaDD development stands as a testament to the potential of thoughtful design to transform the way we work, live, and innovate.

We look forward to more such engaging events and developments from IIDA, CoreNet, and the industry leaders who are redefining the future of our work and living spaces.