Breakthrough Properties - Torrey Heights Development Façade Architectural Detail

Torrey Heights Wins Architizer Vision Awards Editor's Choice

Torrey Heights by Breakthrough has added another award to its growing list of honors. The life science research campus has been selected as the 2025 Architizer Vision Awards Editor's Choice Winner in the Architecture & Details category for its signature façade.

Flad collaborated with Breakthrough Properties to design the 10-acre campus. With three thoughtfully designed, state-of-the-art scientific workplace facilities and an amenity building totaling 520,000 square feet, it offers flexible, leasable laboratory and office space for biotechnology firms in San Diego. Adjacent to a natural arroyo, the design takes inspiration from the area's geologic forms. With a façade composed of highly articulated, unitized glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) panels, the envelope emphasizes depth and texture.

The exterior represents the careful choreography of four standardized designs to create its distinctive look. The neutral-colored panels serve as a backdrop to the environment, enabling the façade to change color and texture with the sunlight at different times of the day and year. As day turns to night, strategically placed design lighting accentuates depth and articulation while illuminating the main public area. The design of the campus ensures the building remains in constant dialogue with its surroundings, offering a dynamic visual experience.

Breakthrough Properties > Torrey Heights Development

October 15, 2025

Breakthrough Properties - Torrey Heights Development Façade Architectural DetailBreakthrough Properties - Torrey Heights Development Façade Architectural Detail