STUDIO VII

California Baptist University I Instructors: Aaron Greene I Fall 2020

Leimert Park is in South Los Angeles and has a unique identity with its culture, music, and poetry. It has been an important place for cultural celebrations and community gatherings, so people can get together in unity. On the other hand, the area of Los Angeles has a poor air quality due to fine particles and dust from motor engines, ports, and industries. Constant sunny days and little rain also contribute to ozone formation. The layout of the program takes a form which facilitates social interaction in adequate green spaces for the community.

A solution that can be provided through architecture is implementing spaces that connect with the community’s residents culture and roots. The form of the building symbolized fluidity of water and the tranquility it can produce through its current. It is inspired by a memorial in North Carlina with freestanding paddles which refer to the role of water in the spiritual belief system of African culture.

In addition, free smog towers which are considered to be the largest air purifiers in the world will be placed in Leimert Park to provide clean air for residents and visitors of the area. The large air purifiers are currently being used in a few places in Europe and Asia, so why not use them in an area that is considered the heart of a community rich in culture, music, and history.