Architecture project // Maximizing Natural Light Through Carved Atriums in Affordable Urban Housing

Maximizing Natural Light Through Carved Atriums in Affordable Urban Housing

Authors:

Julia Peña, Fabian Diaz luevano

Carved atriums enhance natural light in a repurposed parking structure, creating an affordable housing community enriched with native vegetation and diverse amenities for urban residents.

5 key facts about this project

Carved atriums enhance daylighting and ventilation throughout the residential units.

Native vegetation integrates with the facade to improve air quality and thermal performance.

A large variety of community amenities fosters engagement and supports residents' well-being.

The project repurposes an existing parking structure to minimize environmental impact.

Design focuses on affordability while providing diverse unit types for various household sizes.

General keywords

los angeles affordable housing mixed-use urban community education sustainability vegetation reuse amenities

Project specific keywords

atriums terraced plates bicycle storage child development native vegetation

The IDSCEL Center in Los Angeles reimagines the use of an existing parking structure by transforming it into a mixed-use development aimed at addressing housing needs and providing community services. The design focuses on creating a practical environment that encourages social interaction and accessibility for various groups. It aligns with urban goals to enhance livability while ensuring the efficient use of space in a dense setting.

Adaptive Reuse Strategy
The building repurposes a parking garage into a residential space with 328 affordable housing units. These dwellings include studios, one-bedroom units, and two-bedroom apartments, which cater to a range of residents facing housing challenges. The existing structure contributes an additional 148 units, making it a resource-efficient solution that seeks to reduce the environmental footprint typically associated with new construction.

Climatic Responsiveness
The architecture prioritizes climate adaptation by maximizing natural light in the living areas. Carved atriums and terraced plates are designed to bring sunlight into the building, enhancing the comfort and energy efficiency of the units. These architectural elements help create a pleasant indoor environment that responds to Los Angeles's climate while supporting the overall well-being of the residents.

Integrated Community Amenities
The IDSCEL Center offers a mix of features that enrich community life and support daily activities. It includes bicycle parking, public storage, and spaces for educational programs. Facilities such as showers, restrooms, and a child development center cater to essential needs while promoting active engagement within the community. There are also plans for an urban farm or park, which introduces green space and encourages connections to nature in an otherwise urban landscape.

Design Details
Native vegetation is incorporated into the design as part of the landscape, serving as a natural barrier that helps with air quality and temperature regulation. This greenery not only enhances the visual appeal of the building but also functions to improve the living conditions for residents. Every detail in the design reflects a commitment to sustainability and community welfare, contributing to a thoughtful addition to the Los Angeles environment.