Overview
Architecture studio KFA is undertaking a project to convert a brutalist office building from the 1970s in Los Angeles into residential units. The structure, located in the Sherman Oaks neighborhood, has recently received a historic landmark designation, a factor that aligns with a recently implemented adaptive reuse ordinance in the city. The proposed plan by KFA details the transformation of the stepped concrete building into a complex comprising 95 apartments. Additionally, the former laboratory space within the building is slated for conversion.
Research Context
The project is situated within the context of urban development and architectural preservation in Los Angeles, specifically concerning the adaptive reuse of existing structures. The building's designation as a historic landmark provides a specific framework for its redevelopment. This designation, coupled with the city's recently adopted adaptive reuse ordinance, establishes the regulatory and historical parameters guiding the conversion efforts. The brutalist architectural style of the 1970s building represents a particular era in architectural history.
Approach
KFA's approach involves the conversion of a stepped concrete office building into residential apartments. The plan specifies the creation of 95 apartments. Furthermore, the design includes the repurposing of the building's former laboratory area. The execution of this project is facilitated by the building's historic landmark status and the provisions of a recently adopted adaptive reuse ordinance within the city of Los Angeles.
Findings
- KFA plans to convert a 1970s brutalist office building in Los Angeles.
- The building is located in the Sherman Oaks neighborhood.
- The building has been designated a historic landmark.
- The conversion project will create 95 apartments.
- The former laboratory space within the building is also part of the conversion plan.
- The project utilizes a recently adopted adaptive reuse ordinance in Los Angeles.
Why This Matters
The conversion project illustrates the application of adaptive reuse strategies in urban environments, specifically within Los Angeles. The integration of a historic landmark designation with a city ordinance highlights a potential pathway for repurposing older structures, including those of specific architectural styles like brutalism. This initiative addresses the transformation of commercial spaces into residential units within an existing urban fabric.