Intuitive Surgical Inc. HQ

In Sunnyvale, CA, Intuitive Surgical Inc., a prominent medical technology company, has collaborated with the renowned London-based architectural firm Foster+Partners to create a new headquarters. This state-of-the-art facility features two landscaped courtyards, each adorned with a distinctive series of rectangular PVC tensile membrane sails, designed and installed by Birdair. The larger courtyard showcases 110 identical PVC shade sails with a total coverage of approximately 3,600 sq.ft., while the smaller courtyard is equipped with 60 sails covering approximately 1,800 sq.ft. These sails, designed with a catenary perimeter, exhibit a gracefully curved edge when installed, thanks to the characteristics of the fabric. Birdair was responsible for the comprehensive scope of work, including the design, engineering, fabrication, and installation of the 170 PVC fabric panels, cables, and clamping hardware, with the structural steel provided by others.

The expansive south site, covering 16.8 acres, will ultimately serve as a hub for Intuitive Surgical’s manufacturing, research, and development activities once the project is fully completed.