This modern architecture design Housing Complex designed by LOHA Architects, located adjacent to Rudolf Schindler’s Kings Road House, Habitat 825 (53.000 sf) draws inspiration from Schindler in developing new forms of contemporary lifestyle through the use of light, materials, colors and common open space.
The bold black and white color scheme accentuates the interlocking volumes, black for the large four story volume and white to allow light to filter to lower level units. Offsetting these colors, a striking lime green color, an abstract reference to the bamboo prominent in Schindler’s landscape scheme, is used to define the subtractive nature of carved out open space.
Materials are a combination of non-combustible cement board and local forest managed dark walnut stained redwood siding. The utilization of a rain screen system promotes a long life-cycle reducing the need for maintenance and repair. In addition, in Los Angelese’s warm climate, the movement of air between the building and the cladding cools the inner face of the exterior and reduces the demand for cooling energy.
This project provided an opportunity to address the critical issues of density, site and the cultural and social impacts that arise from building adjacent to a historical landmark. Attempting to “kick down the bamboo wall”, Habitat 825 and its expansive use of common open space creates an urban space without borders or property lines.
Visit the LOHA Architects website – here.
