Site: 18252 sf, C2 Zone

Location: 4501 Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

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The aim was to investigate the physical and cultural context of the given site in Los Angeles and understand program density of “Co-Housing”, as reduced footprint, fully private living spaces that are augmented by shared programs. Additionally, the project also includes facilities to support the Ron Finley Project - a nonprofit entity promoting community gardening and access to healthy, locally grown food (www.ronfinley.com).

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Through analysis of site, we developed co-housing program and proposed an approach to program organization considering housing typologies and the constraints of the site. The proposed solution aligns with Ron Finley’s vision of building an urban garden in South Central LA that will serve as an example of community horticulture and as a gathering place where people learn about nutrition and join together to plant, work and unwind. Entering from either Exposition of Chesapeake, one will encounter the community garden on ground and the Ron Finley Headquarters, where the roof also acts as part of the community garden. The apartment building is raised on a plinth and consists of 20 studio style units. The apartment complex was to have both public and private spaces. The public spaces denoted in red are situated towards the back and front of the complex for optimum views, while the apartment units in blue are placed in between.