Habitat 825 in Los Angeles by LOHA Architects
Habitat 825 is a distinctive modern apartment complex in Los Angeles. LOHA Architects envisioned the residential building as as a place where there is focus is on its community with the idea of light and open spaces. Two L-shaped buildings make up the complex with a common courtyard to encourage outdoor gatherings. As for circulation for its residents and for airflow, two entrances are available. To eliminate climate-controlled corridors, access to each apartment can be gained through the central court.
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From Inhabitat.
Massed into two L-shaped buildings that surround a common courtyard, the 19-apartment complex was designed to facilitate outdoor gathering among its residents. Two entrances into the courtyard, one from the street, and another that faces the Schindler house provide excellent circulation for both people and air. The complex is set back slightly from the front sidewalk, leaving public open space and a well-defined entrance. Access to each apartment is gained through the central courtyard, which eliminates the need for climate-controlled corridors. This also encourages communication and chance meetings between the residents. A sub-grade parking deck takes care of cars and storage.
Light wells allow sunlight to filter down to each apartment, especially the first floor. All the units have windows on both sides, allowing for ample daylight as well as cross ventilation. The choice of black on the southern exposure was made as an architectural proclamation, but could potentially have some benefit with regards to solar passive design. The lime green walls were a nod to nature, while the white is used to help bounce light down to the lower units. Local managed forests produced the redwood siding, and a rainscreen helps minimize the need for repair on the complex. The rainscreen will also help cool the building by allowing air movement between the cladding and the building.
Source: Inhabitat
