Anti-Racism, Equity and Diversity Center

Winter 2021

Instructor: Narineh Mizraeian

Project partners: Tiffany Orozco, Wesley Lin

Located on north campus, this project creates a physical footprint for UCLA’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion initiative. Sandwiched between three adjacent buildings, we began our design with a diagrid, to break away from the rectilinear pedestrian experience and mitigate visual congestion.

We aimed to embody AEDI’s central ethos, namely inclusivity, openness, and accessibility. This manifested in a central ADA-accessible ramp connecting the first three levels, serving as a community hub and exhibition space for local artists and events. Adjacent to the walkway are programs accommodating flexible workspace, administrative services, and a theater.

The bris soleil façade draws inspiration from the Tongva tribe hut, serving as both as a territory acknowledgement, and tactical solar envelope.