Los Angeles Affordable
Housing Challenge

A daring translation of the "builder's remedy", but the project is useful as a creative exercise for proving the limits of zoning regulations. Beautiful structures and presentation, though it lacks understanding of egress requirements for residential towers.

While well-intentioned, how will this proposal, on a large scale, factor in NIMBYism? Single family home owners are not likely to be on-board with tower-like structures that change the aesthetic of the neighborhood.

The concept and color palette is unique and eye-catching for LA. The idea of a prefabricated structural system is nice, and the structural elements are a visible design feature for the interior. Though I am unsure what the hollow wood columns are as they do not seem structurally sound.

This entry used an innovative and different approach to look outside existing planning policies and explored those possibilities.

The project exhibits its strengths through a comprehensive analysis of the elements that constitute a livable neighborhood environment and through its innovative proposal of a built form typology. This typology is adeptly designed to accommodate diverse co-living situations and varying family sizes, while also prioritizing construction in areas that benefit from existing amenities and engaging street frontages.

The practical nature of this project is admirable, where it uses a weaving / stitching approach to add more units to the airspace of existing buildings in a desirable location. What stood out is that these new units, though privately owned and built, would be connected by communal green spaces which would provide a sense of continuity and community.

Clear understanding of the intended project location, and clear target audience identified (millenials and Gen Z open to arts district culture), addressing the "missing middle" and reducing car dependency.

The plan is well developed to suit the site. The strategy to build on low density development is very promising. LA is famous for its spread, maybe it's time to consider density for a more controlled development.

A key strength of the proposal is its adaptability for implementation in underutilized or transitional spaces. However, like many creative projects, it faces challenges in practical implementation. These include complexities in site planning and construction on existing infrastructure. While outdoor spaces are well-considered, further attention is needed for the planning of shared spaces, taking into account potential additional costs.

This proposal not only creates density through a flexible system with endless potential but it also activates unutilized waterfront areas.

LA River location assists with infill and provides affordable options for housing. I appreciate the use of sustainable building materials via corn production waste. A unique proposal that considers available but currently underutilized or unused urban space. The big structure suspended from the bridge seems unrealistic. Development along the LA River would be better to pair with other commercial developments, instead of making use only of housing units.

This entry examined gradual densification to exemplify affordable housing approaches using existing services and community.

Skinny homes which utilize large roadways are a unique and innovative idea! I enjoy how this concept simultaneously aims to minimize traffic congestion by targeting the location to be near public transit centers, and creates designated spaces for community rideshare.

It is unclear how ride-share features would assist with affordability. Isn't this an additional expense? Certainly not as expensive as owning a vehicle, but the challenge asks to address housing affordability.