This semester in my Building Science course, ARCH 405A, I had the opportunity to work on a project that focused on creating local affordable housing in Los Angeles. As part of a small group of three, each of us took on specific roles that played to our strengths. My main focus was on the design side of the project, which included working on the facade, interior design, and landscape architecture.
The Project Thesis: A Community for Single Parents
The goal of the project was to develop affordable housing for single parents, but with a twist — it aimed to foster an intergenerational community. Our design aimed to encourage collaboration among people of different ages, creating a supportive environment where residents could help one another and build meaningful relationships. This holistic approach not only addresses the urgent need for affordable housing but also promotes social connectivity and strengthens community resilience.
We wanted this project to be more than just a place to live; it should serve as a model of how communities can support one another through shared spaces, education centers, and recreational areas.
Site Details and Design Considerations
We selected a site at 443 S Soto St, Los Angeles, CA 90033, a location in the heart of the city that would benefit from this type of development. The site spans approximately 53,901 square feet with an estimated construction cost of $800,000. It was ideal for our vision, fitting 16 buildings that would house a mix of single parents, children, and elderly residents.
Each building was designed to include:
- First floor: Around 675 square feet
- Second floor: About 350 square feet
- Total area per building: Approximately 1025 square feet
In terms of amenities, our site was surrounded by local features like schools, youth centers, and recreation areas to make sure residents of all ages would have access to the resources they needed. There would also be 32 parking spaces to ensure convenience for families who might need transportation.
My Role in the Project: Facade, Interiors, and Landscape Design
As the primary designer in the group, I focused on bringing the vision of the project to life. For the facade design, I wanted to create a modern, welcoming aesthetic while being mindful of cost-effective materials. I collaborated with my teammates to ensure the building exteriors were not only beautiful but functional for the climate and local context.
Landscape architecture also played an important role in our design. I focused on creating green, communal spaces that encouraged interaction between residents, fostering the spirit of collaboration we wanted for the community. These outdoor spaces would serve as places to relax, socialize, and hold community events.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
One of the biggest challenges we faced in this project was ensuring that our designs were not only aesthetically pleasing and functional but also affordable. We were given a triangular floor plan for the buildings, which posed unique structural challenges. Designing within the confines of a triangle meant that we had to get creative with mapping spaces in a way that still maximized functionality without compromising the overall design vision. Finding cost-effective solutions while navigating this complex layout was no easy task.
Throughout the process, I learned how important it is to approach design with empathy. Creating spaces that serve the community requires understanding the diverse needs of the people who will use them. I also learned the value of teamwork, as each of us brought unique skills and perspectives to the table, making our project richer and more thoughtful.
Conclusion: Building More Than Just Homes
Ultimately, this affordable housing project was about more than just creating structures for single parents — it was about fostering community and connection in a city that often feels disconnected. The experience not only helped me develop as a designer but also deepened my appreciation for how thoughtful design can create lasting social impact.
I’m excited to see where this project goes, and I look forward to continuing my work in the field of affordable housing and community design in the future.
