Promoting Freedom for Creative Architecture
Lorcan O'Herlihy Architects (LOHA), a Los Angeles-based architecture firm founded in 1990, has been revolutionizing adaptive reuse with their latest project – the corporate headquarters for Downtown Properties in Santa Monica. This project has garnered recognition from the architecture community and beyond, receiving awards from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Architizer A+Awards, and the Los Angeles Business Council.
The Downtown Properties headquarters was designed to be a sustainable and innovative space that reflects the company's progressive values. The building, which was originally built in the 1950s as a warehouse, was transformed into a modern office space that prioritizes energy efficiency, accessibility, and collaboration.
One of the most striking elements of the headquarters is the new façade, which was inspired by the abstract geometric patterns found in the surrounding area's ocean and mountains. The façade is made up of custom-laminated glass and aluminum panels that stretch across the building's north, south, and east-facing sides.
Another standout feature of the headquarters is the light-filled atrium that serves as the building's central gathering space. The atrium is surrounded by a floating steel stair that connects the different levels of the building, promoting collaboration and interaction between employees.
Adaptive reuse is a practice that involves repurposing an existing building for a new use, rather than tearing it down and building something new. This approach is becoming increasingly popular, as it is seen as a way to reduce waste and preserve historic buildings.
However, adaptive reuse can be challenging, as existing buildings often have limitations that must be addressed in the redesign process. LOHA has been at the forefront of addressing these challenges, creating innovative and sustainable spaces that transcend their original purpose.
With the Downtown Properties headquarters, LOHA tackled challenges such as the building's structural limitations, the need for natural light, and the desire for sustainable design features. By creating a new façade and adding skylights and a central atrium, LOHA was able to transform the building into a modern workspace that meets the needs of today's workforce.
The Downtown Properties headquarters has been widely recognized for its innovative design and sustainability features. In addition to winning awards from the AIA and Architizer A+Awards, the building was also awarded LEED Gold certification, an internationally recognized rating system for sustainable buildings.
The headquarters has also had a significant impact on the Santa Monica community, revitalizing a previously underutilized building and creating a new space for collaboration and innovation. The building's central location and sustainable design have attracted new tenants, contributing to the city's economic growth.
What is adaptive reuse?
Adaptive reuse is a practice that involves repurposing an existing building for a new use, rather than tearing it down and building something new. This approach is becoming increasingly popular, as it is seen as a way to reduce waste and preserve historic buildings.
What challenges come with adaptive reuse?
Adaptive reuse can be challenging, as existing buildings often have limitations that must be addressed in the redesign process. These challenges may include structural limitations, the need for natural light, and the desire for sustainable design features.
What is LEED Gold certification?
LEED Gold certification is an internationally recognized rating system for sustainable buildings. Buildings that achieve LEED Gold certification meet high standards for energy efficiency, water use, indoor air quality, and other sustainability measures.
