Reviving Historic Filipinotown by rbfavis

REVIVING HISTORIC FILIPINO TOWN REVIVING HISTORIC FILIPINO TOWN REVIVING HISTORIC FILIPINO TOWN REVIVING HISTORIC FILIPINOTOWN REVIVING HISTORIC FILIPINOTOWN REVIVING HISTORIC FILIPINOTOWN REVIVING HISTORIC FILIPINOTOWN REVIVING HISTORIC FILIPINOTOWN MIXED-USE AFFORABLE HOUSING FOR SIPA

RACHELLE FAVIS I FALL 2009 I PROFESSOR LUIS HOYOS CALIFORNIA STATE POLYTECHNIC UNIVERISTY POMONA, ARCHITECTURE

CONTENTS

PROJECT PROPOSAL

PROJECT STATEMENT ABSTRACT NARRATIVE CASE STUDIES INTERVIEWS NOTES BIBLIOGRAPHY

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ABOVE: Fig. 1. Map of Historic Filipinotown Boundaries. Source: Google Maps, 2009

PROJECT STATEMENT

As of now, this section of Los Angeles has been deemed by many to be of a degraded state. Historic Filipinotown lacks a centralized area and has a blurred architectural language. Its lack of identity has led many people to overlook the area’s significance. Unlike that of surrounding ethnic areas such as Korea Town or Little Tokyo, Filipinotown has no character defining features. Since Filipinos are currently the nation’s second largest Asian American population, it would seem fitting that they have a strong iconic center in the city of Los Angeles.2 Aside from residents, the majority of Historic Filipinotown’s buildings along its main street Temple are occupied by Filipino American organizations. Currently located on 3200 W. Temple Street is the office of SIPA (Search to Involve Pilipino Americans), an organization which seeks to “enhance the quality of life of Filipino Americans and other communities through youth

development, health, economic, and social services.” This includes Filipino American veteran support, the development of affordable housing, services for the unemployed, counseling, and many other locally funded and supported aid.3

PROJECT STATEMENT

According to the 2000 U.S. Census, there are approximately 300,000 Filipinos residing in Los Angeles County, 100,000 of which live in the city of Los Angeles. An estimated 7,000 Filipinos live in what is known as Historic Filipino Town, an area of 2.1 square miles in Los Angeles. 1

SIPA’s headquarters is lacking space and is in desperate need to expand. It houses a large after school program, conducts several counseling sessions throughout the day, and caters many community functions on a daily basis, such as meetings and workshops. Also, the headquarters lacks a defined architectural language, much like many of the other buildings located in Historic Filipinotown. In order to address these issues, I propose a relocation and redesign of the headquarters, including the integration of additional programmatic elements. By adding retail space, affordable housing, a cultural center, and expanding the current offices and facilities, SIPA’s new building will help bring Historic Filipinotown to its architectural potential.

1 SIPA (Search to Involve Pilipino Americans), Historic Filipinotown, http://esipa.org/ourstory/filipinotown.html. 2 Jessica S. Barnes and Claudette E. Bennett, The Asian Population: 2000, Census 2000 Brief, 2000 (Washington, DC: GPO, February 2002), 8. 3 SIPA, Mission, http://esipa.org/ourstory/mission.html.

Fig. 2. SIPA’s Youth Outreach. Source: esipa.org

Fig. 3. Advising Meetings Held in SIPA’s Multipurpose Room. Source: esipa.org

Fig. 4. Filipinotown Signage Established in 2007 by Caltrans. Source: pinoycentric.com

ABSTRACT

Having chosen a specific Filipino American organization along the Filipino Town’s main street (W. Temple St.), the project will have a depth that goes beyond simply creating an imaginary proposal. The organization SIPA plays an integral part in Filipino Town in that its facilities are used on a daily basis by a large volume of people of all ages. In 2004, SIPA acquired a 2.4 acre lot down the street from its existing headquarters. Though a schematic design was developed by an architecture firm, budget

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constraints have left the project on hold. By proposing a new alternative design, I hope to address issues that were not considered during the preliminary proposal. This project will also help create a more culturally identifiable building, expanding as a Filipino cultural hub that goes beyond SIPA’s current uses. The primary concerns that need to be addressed in the project include creating larger private offices and counseling rooms, making safe, spacious activity rooms for the after school program, and expanding the multipurpose room. Additional issues include creating larger computer labs, expanding parking, and designing a more efficient layout. In addition to expanding facilities, SIPA wants to integrate a four-story affordable housing complex above the proposed two-story SIPA facilities and retail spaces. Ancillary spaces will house a Filipino American cultural center which will include a library and archive, conference rooms, meeting hall, and exhibition space. The design will reflect the modern architecture which is prevalent today in both the Philippines and Filipino American cities throughout the United States. Through the selection of materials and an emphasis on light and air, I hope to reflect the Philippine way of life known as Mabuhay, meaning “Long live!”

ABSTRACT

Historic Filipino Town is an area of Los Angeles that has been occupied by Filipino Americans since the 1940s but was only recently officially acknowledged in 2002.4 Though its recognition as Filipino Town is fairly new, the existence of the Filipino American community has greatly impacted the city of Los Angeles for decades. Many Filipino Americans have struggled for higher education standards, emphasized the importance of family life, and served to better not only the immediate area of Filipino Town, but also the greater Los Angeles community.5 For these and several other reasons, it is important to give back to those who have helped to shape the culture and livelihood of Los Angeles by creating an iconic building representative of the accomplishments of the Filipino American community.

Carina Monica Montoya, Los Angeles’s Historic Filipinotown (Arcadia Publishing, 2009), 91. Mae Respicio Koerner, Filipinos in Los Angeles (Arcadia Publishing, 2007), 94.

NARRATIVE ISSUES Historic Filipinotown, having only been officially recognized in the year 2002, has struggled with creating an identifiable character for itself. 6 This part of Los Angeles has no distinctive features that would indicate the beginning and end of the district, except for the signs posted on two freeway exits and two elsewhere on the area’s main intersections. 7 Filipinotown also has little to no architectural language, making the area difficult to distinguish from similar looking parts of Los Angeles. It is also a noncontributing area to Los Angeles’ rich architectural history, making the preservation of culturally significant buildings a difficult battle. The project that I have suggested for my thesis project focuses on a particular building which is occupied by an influential Filipino American service organization named SIPA. This organization is heavily rooted in the community and the redesign of its facilities will hopefully enable its services to reach an even greater level of community outreach. Its redevelopment would not only bring more space to the estimated 200 people/week who now use the 12,000 sq. ft. building, but it will also centralize the

district. In doing so, the new SIPA development will allow visitors to congregate in the heart of Filipinotown instead of passing through the district oblivious to its significance to Los Angeles. Currently, the existing architecture in filipinotown is largely made up of stucco-clad building wall systems and deteriorating wood frame homes built originally in the early 20th century. Contemporary materials are few to nonexistent and it is clear that there is a lack of a site-specific architectural language. Few residential/ mixed use buildings display a true design consciousness, but have yet to give unique character to the area. Yet many of these aesthetic issues exist because of the lack of funding for projects and because space is valuable in Los Angeles, therefore, quantity has often been a priority over quality. About 18% of families living in Los Angeles are below the poverty line, making it difficult to invest in making improvements to buildings let alone creating new ones. 8 The most prominent issues regarding the establishment of the project are rooted in SIPA’s

Carina Monica Montoya, Los Angeles’s Historic Filipinotown (Arcadia Publishing, 2009), 91. SIPA, Historic Filipinotown. http://www.esipa.org/ourstory/filipinotown.html (accessed October 21, 2009) 8 Dr. Michael J. Dear, H. Eric Schockman, and Greg Hise, ed., Rethinking Los Angeles (Metropolis & Region) (Sage Publications, 1996) 25.

SIPA also struggles with the limited amount of space and find it difficult to accommodate the large volume of people they anticipate on a daily basis. There are very few offices and almost all lack privacy. Learning centers also have insufficient space and have little natural light. The low ceilings make for uncomfortable spaces and water intrusion has left many rooms abandoned due to its unsafe environment. Restroom facilities as well as kitchen areas are very small and

out of date. Overall the building lacks natural circulation of air and is deprived of a sufficient amount of natural light. An up-to-date heating and cooling system is absent. Also, mechanical systems are cramped and crowded, threatening a power overload and possible fire. Corridors are confusing and exits are hidden and small. As the organization expanded throughout the years, the facilities have worn out and materials are in desperate need of replacement. Parking is also an issue, however, public transportation is easily accessible since bus stops are located right in front of the building.

NARRATIVE

current headquarters building. The facility rests on the top of a hill along a busy street (Temple St.). This is problematic because many of the elderly who wish to visit the headquarters have difficulty walking uphill and across the street. A few months prior to my interview, an elderly woman was hit by a vehicle while walking to SIPA on her first day of volunteer work. This problem with traffic also affects the after school program held at SIPA. The youth play area faces the main street and is only separated from traffic by a chain-linked fence. It has been a cause for concern for many of the parents and staff, yet, due to spatial constraints, it has left them no choice but to place the play area there.

Aside from basic problems and necessities, the SIPA building also lacks a clear architectural language. Its facade consists mostly of brick with a stucco entrance overhang and parapet, although most of this is usually covered by overgrown foliage. The building is one-story and reads as a long horizontal band. Without any vertical elements differentiating it from other low-height buildings along W. Temple St., SIPA is often overlooked and passed by many people wishing to visit. I, myself, drove past twice before finding the facility during my first visit.

The interior continues this lack of clear aesthetic articulation. Ceiling heights are low, making the already cramped space seem smaller. There is no apparent identification of changes in space or function besides partitions. Security is also dealt with through the use of partitions (i.e. Buzz-release door at the entrance to the building, a chain-linked fence for the outdoor play area) rather than changes in elevation, pathways, or the creation of public versus private spaces. Circulation as well as the lack of transitional spaces are also problematic. Of all these, I feel that one of the most important elements lacking in the interior is a solid architectural identity. The architecture needs to be reflective of the incredible work that this organization does on a daily basis. In addition to SIPA’s community outreach services, the influence of the Filipino American community needs to be present in the design as well. GOALS & STRATEGIES The project will be broken up into two main focuses: creating a central, iconic building to help bring architectural identity to Historic Filipinotown and to enhance the SIPA facilities to ensure that their services continue to play a vital role in the community. Each design decision should keep these

two ideas prevalent and clear throughout the project. Before deciding what elements need to be adjusted from the current SIPA design, the basic program of the proposed redesign of SIPA’s headquarters must be established. • Retail Spaces on the ground level – such as restaurants, cafes, stores •

Filipino American Cultural Center – includes a library and archive, storage, conference rooms, meeting hall, and exhibition space.

•

SIPA Office Facilities – this will be an expansion of the current program of SIPA’s headquarters. Offices, counseling rooms, conference room, a break room, kitchen for the office, print and copy room, restrooms, storage, and a front lobby with front desk and waiting area.

•

SIPA’s Youth Program – the program includes a larger, safer play area that will be an indoor/outdoor space, computer labs, study rooms, recording room for their sound and video equipment, arts and crafts room, kitchen, storage, and general gathering space.

Affordable Housing – Housing will vary from studio apartments, to one-bedroom apartments, and two-bedroom apartments. Amenities will include laundry rooms, mail room, storage, fitness room, meeting rooms, front desk, apartment offices, copy and print room, trash room, outdoor gathering spaces, a pool, and garden area.

•

Other facilities will include mechanical, electrical and data distribution equipment rooms, elevator mechanical room, maintenance shop, trash pickup area, and other service rooms will be added as needed.

•

Parking will be divided into three sections: parking for retail and SIPA services, parking for employees of SIPA, and residents.

Beginning with SIPA’s proposed site (a 2.4 acre lot), it is important to clearly label and define any significant information about the site context. Located on 1910 W. Temple St., the proposed site is owned by SIPA but is in current use by the LA Derby Dolls, an all-female, banked track roller derby league. Across the street is a predominately Filipino owned and run plaza called Aristocrat. Silver Lake Medical center and the City of Angels Medical Center are a street down from the site. Other nearby sites include churches, schools,

NARRATIVE

•

Fig. 5. Historic Filipinotown Guidemap. Source: www.historicfilipinotown.org

restaurants and other Filipino American organizations. The Hollywood 101 freeway entrance is also located two blocks down from the proposed site. With one of the most frequently used freeways located nearby, SIPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s redesign should include a large amount of parking spaces to accommodate a high volume of automobile traffic. Though there are several bus stops located in front of the new site, traveling by car will remain to be the prominent mode of transportation to the site. Also, the building should be visible from the freeway exit or from the main intersection off the freeway. While addressing the visibility of the building from the freeway exit, the SIPA headquarters should also be mindful of the large two-story Aristocrat plaza across the street. Aristocratâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heaviness tends to draw attention while driving past; therefore the SIPA building should be visually stimulating and distinguishable from Aristocrat. As the design moves towards a closer focus on the immediate site, it should respond to the issues that were addressed in the existing SIPA building. Since the current facility is located along a busy street and will remain on the same street, a few issues need to be dealt with accordingly. The first issue involves the current play area. This should not be located at grade with the sidewalk along the busy street but rather

moved to a more central area of the facility. It would also be ideal if this area were to be elevated from ground floor public access, to ensure security for the youth. Another issue related to its location on a main street deals with pedestrian traffic. Many children walk to the after school program held at SIPA from surrounding schools. The design should include a visible entrance for the area designated for the youth program and wider sidewalks to accommodate pedestrian traffic while creating a larger buffer between the SIPA building and vehicular traffic. Another problem that greatly affects the SIPA facilities is lack of space. The redesign will expand the SIPA facilities to two stories in combination with retail space and the establishment of a Filipino American cultural center both on the ground floor. By moving offices to the second floor, the issue of privacy, accessibility, and lack of space can be resolved. During my first interview with SIPA staff, they suggested the establishment of an atrium area. This would help in bringing more light and air into the space. It will also resolve the issue of low ceilings in its current building, making the facility more inviting and spacious. Other basic functions that need to be addressed include creating designated mechanical rooms, creat-

as bamboo, several varieties of wood, and stone. 9 Another important feature found in Filipino architecture is the use of plants and natural stones in both the structure and design of buildings. With the research of Filipino architects, such as Lor Calma Design and Vanarch, who implement vernacular design to their contemporary works, the project will develop into a unique representation of the lively Filipino community that is Historic Filipinotown.

NARRATIVE

ing larger restrooms, separating office amenities from those used by other users (i.e. Kitchen, restrooms, break rooms), and making more storage areas. Circulation paths will be large and open with clear exits and entrances. Also, security will be handled by separating private areas from those accessible by the public. This includes placing the youth program facilities in an area that is visible from any angle of the facility. By also designing the youth area in a mezzanine level, access can be more easily controlled. Parking is another issue that needs to be addressed. With the introduction of garage elevators, parking can be densified and controlled. Also, a loading area within the SIPA complex will allow parents to safely drop-off and pick-up their children without the risk of injury or traffic often experienced on the main street. Along with thinking about programmatic elements that need improvement, the facility also requires that long-lasting sustainable materials be used. This would include the implementation of photovoltaic panels, a high quality insulation, the creation of operable windows and a system that will deliver natural air ventilation to other parts of the building that need it. Materials used will all be from recycled materials and will reflect those used in Filipino architecture, such

Anatalio Ubalde, Filipino American Architecture, Design, & Planning Issues (Vallejo, CA: Flipside Press, 1996) 143-144.

MADISON @ 14TH APARTMENTS

ARCHITECT Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects LOCATION Oakland, CA PROJECT SIZE 79,000 s.f. COST $30 Million COMPLETED 2008

Fig. 6. View of Facade on 14th St. Note: Copyright Tim Griffith

Madision Apartments, winner of the 2009 AIA Housing Awards, provides 79 apartments and services to those seeking lowincome housing and former foster youth who need assistance. This breaks down to 16 studio apartments, 36 one-bedroom apartments, 21 two-bedrooms and 6 three-bedroom apartments. The project also provides 2,659 square feet of retail space to encourage neighborhood interaction. This project is a part of the Central District Redevelopment Area, which, according to the Mayor’s “10K Plan,” will help “encourage the revitalization of this area through the development of high-density, mixed-use housing.”10 This project has been recognized with several awards, mainly due to its focus on social revitalization and community activities as well as its sustainability features. Green building innovations and materials used in the project include photo-voltaic solar panels which provide 35-40% of the building’s energy, high10 Green Communities, “Madison @ 14th Apartments,” Enterprise Green Communities, http://www.greencommunitiesonline.org/ projects/profiles/madison_apartments.pdf.

Fig. 8. Exploded Axonometric View of Building’s Components. Source: lmsarch.com

Fig. 7. Site Plan. Source: lmsarch.com

CASE STUDIES Fig. 9. View of Apartments in Site Context. Note: Copyright Tim Griffith

efficiency lighting, and a hydronic heating system that heats both water and living space. Natural and recycled content flooring is also used throughout the project. These materials include recycled nylon carpet, durable carpet tiles, and linoleum floors made from linseed oil and cork, giving the flooring a 40-year life span.In addition to the mention of recycled materials, 75% of the project’s construction waste was recycled. Other project advantages include the use of energy star appliances, the creation of a central core seismic structural system to prevent damages from seismic activity, and a parking lift to maximize commercial floor area. This garage structure utilizes a Wöhr Autopark Systeme, which is a concealed, triple-stacked system that densifies parking.11 In addition to being a successful sustainable project, the building also houses services for former foster care “aged” youth. The second floor of the facility contains eight residential unit as well as office space for property management and social service staff, three counseling rooms, two classroom/conference rooms, a community kitchen, and a multi-purpose room.12 This floor will function as a community and social service center, providing cultural, educational, and social aid to those who seek it. 11 Affordable Housing Associates, “Foster Care Teenagers No Longer Homeless,” June 28, 2008. 12 Ibid.

OPPOSITE: Fig. 11. Ground Floor Plan. Source: lmsarch.com

Fig. 10. Cross Section of Building. Source: lmsarch.com

15 CASE STUDIES

Fig. 12. Interior Stairs. Note: Copyright Tim Griffith

Fig. 13. Facade on 14th St. Note: Copyright Tim Griffith

Fig. 14. Main Entrance Note: Copyright Tim Griffith

will allow for the development of similar projects in not only Historic Filipinotown, but other parts of Los Angeles. The Madison Apartments is also recognized nationally by the American Institute of Architects as an excellent form of affordable housing. Its use of materials has enabled for the lowering of utility costs and will ensure a long lifespan for the building. By using recycled materials, it has lowered the carbon footprint of the building. Since the context of this apartment building is similar to that of SIPA’s proposed site, it is fitting that many of the elements found in this project be implemented.

CASE STUDIES

What makes the project an appropriate example for the SIPA redesign is its emphasis on community building and the integration of social services with affordable housing. By having a support program in-house, the residents are able to live in a positive environment that will ensure that they begin a life of success and independence.13 SIPA works in a similar fashion. By integrating all the points of their mission into a cohesive, interactive project, they are able to provide services to their clients with ease. This will enable staff to do most client interactions all in the same building rather than having to commute to another part of town. By doing so, their work will be more efficient and

13 American Institute of Architects, “Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects - Madison @14th Apartments in Oakland, California,” June 12, 2009.

Fig. 15. Typical Floor Plan Source: lmsarch.com

26th STREET LOW INCOME HOUSING ARCHITECT Kanner Architects LOCATION Santa Monica, CA PROJECT SIZE 42,000 s.f. COST $8 Million COMPLETED 2007

Fig. 17. Main Entrance Source: kannerarch.com

Located on the corner of 26th Street and Santa Monica Boulevard, this low-income housing project was designed as part of a community outreach mission. Influenced largely by the Southern California Modernist movement, it incorporates indoor/ outdoor spaces throughout the project, taking advantage of its mild coastal climate. It was recognized in 2008 when it received both an AIA National Honor Award and an AIA National Housing Award.14 Its site context lends itself to a lifestyle that usually is far from affordable, especially with its prime location near several public beaches; However, Kanner Architects were able to create an open and inviting housing experience that low- and moderateincome residents could afford.

Fig. 16. View of Balconies Source: kannerarch.com

The project consists of 44 units within a four-story building. Programmatic elements include a central courtyard, a community 14 Kanner Architects, â&#x20AC;&#x153;26th Street Low Income Housing Project,â&#x20AC;? Kanner Architects, http://www.kannerarch.com

Fig. 18. Interior View Source: kannerarch.com

OPPOSITE: Fig. 19. Site Plan Source: kannerarch.com

19 CASE STUDIES

Fig. 20. Longitudinal Section Source: kannerarch.com

room along 26th Street, and underground parking. The theme of light and air is prominent throughout the project. The balconies found in every unit bring in natural light and allow for private outdoor spaces. Communal areas within the units are spacious and maximize the amount of windows and openings. In order to enhance cross ventilation throughout the site, the project was designed as a courtyard configuration with single-loaded corridors.

CASE STUDIES

In keeping with its low energy use, the project utilized low-cost recycled materials. Paint was rarely used in the project. Instead, pigments were added to plaster to give it a more natural, and consistent look. Other paints were either “free of (or low in) volatile organic compounds.”15 Colors used throughout the building are light and vibrant, giving the building a lively feel. Although the building looks to have used a lot of wood, costs were cut by using a durable cement fiber board. Other sustainable features include low-energy lighting, dual-flush toilets, sun shading elements, and the installation of drywells.16 One of the most notable features would be the consistent use of sculptural metal throughout the facade. This serves as security, shading, and adds to the visual experience of passersby. The interior of balconies are toned in vibrant colors to help differentiate units, break up the massing, and give each unit a sense of personalization.17 Near the entrance is a mural that reflects the wall painting that once existed on the site’s previous building, which was a Jewish community center. Many people who were users of the community center helped create the affordable housing that sits on the site today.18 Although the project is strictly affordable housing, it possesses many elements that will aid in creating a pleasant living environment for the SIPA project. One of the biggest concerns in developing affordable housing is the cost of construction and materials. By finding alternate materials that are of high quality yet lower cost, the project can still provide an elevated standard of living at affordable rates. Also, by maximizing the amount of light and air that penetrate the building, spaces will feel bigger and enhance the overall living experience of residents. Sarah Amelar, “Kanner Architects’ 26th Street Housing Provides Modern Comforts to Low-Income Tenants” Architectural Record, May 2008, page 133; July 2008, page 197. 16 Ibid. 17 Arch Innovations, “Kanner Architects - 26th Street Low Income Housing Project” Archinnovations, June 10, 2008. http://www.archinnovations.com/featured-projects/housing/ the-26th-street-low-income-housing-project/ 18 Sarah Amelar, 133; 197.

Fig. 21. View of Balconies Source: kannerarch.com

Fig. 22. Central Courtyard Source: kannerarch.com Fig. 24. Entrance Source: kannerarch.com

Fig. 23. Interior Living Area Source: kannerarch.com

The project’s use of color to personalize spaces could also be implemented into the design of SIPA’s building. By giving residents a sense of personalization, it will enable them to experience the space as their own. Also, the use of color and materials is the type of visual gesture that SIPA’s building needs. Materials found in Philippine architecture could be supplemented for those used in the Kanner project in order to give the building a true Historic Filipinotown identity.

CASE STUDIES

In keeping with the clients desire for an atrium, it would seem fitting that the apartment complex should also take the shape of a courtyard space. The effectiveness of this scheme has been proven through the passive cooling methods experienced in the 26th Street Housing. Though creating a single-loaded corridor in a courtyard scheme would maximize natural ventilation, the density of the project would be compromised.

Fig. 25. Night View Source: kannerarch.com

Fig. 26. Typical Floor Plan Source: kannerarch.com

8TH + HOWARD FAMILY APARTMENTS/ SOMA STUDIOS ARCHITECT David Baker + Partners LOCATION San Francisco, CA PROJECT SIZE 176,874 s.f. COMPLETED 2003

Located on Howard Street near downtown San Francisco, this five-story affordable housing project combines apartments, studios, and community services into one complex. With 88 studios, 74 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, six community rooms and a child-care center, this affordable housing project successfully gives those who cannot easily afford living in the city of San Francisco a chance.19

Fig. 27. Aerial View Source: dbarchitect.com

The project’s emphasis on pedestrian accessibility is emphasized throughout the project. Some courtyards are semi-public, encouraging community interaction while others are kept private, such as the daycare courtyard, but are still visible from several parts of the site. Since public transportation is readily available, parking spaces are few. There is also a car-share pod which allows residents to rent a car if needed.20 Sidewalks have been widened to encourage pedestrian traffic as well as accommodating those who shop at the neighborhood-serving retail spaces located on the ground floor. This project truly dedicates itself to the pedestrian by creating as many open outdoor spaces as possible. 19 David Baker + Partners, “8th + Howard Family Apartments/ Soma Studios,” David Baker + Partners, http://www.dbarchitect.com. 20 Nigel F. Maynard, “Soma Studios and 8th + Howard Apartments,” Builder, October 2004, http://www.builderonline.com/ awards/soma-studios-and-8th--howard-apartments-75865.aspx

Fig. 28. Courtyard Source: dbarchitect.com

CASE STUDIES

Fig. 30. Night view Source: dbarchitect.com

Fig. 29. Site Plane Source: dbarchitect.com

Fig. 31. Courtyard Source: dbarchitect.com

Fig. 32. Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Play Area Source: dbarchitect.com

Fig. 33. Entrance Source: dbarchitect.com

Fig. 36. Facade Treatment Source: dbarchitect.com

CASE STUDIES Fig. 34. Entrance Source: dbarchitect.com

Fig. 35. Retail Spaces Source: dbarchitect.com

The choice of materials and massing is also a key feature of the project. Not only does David Baker’s choice in the project’s facade design reflect the variety that San Francisco architecture offers, it also helps break down the building’s massiveness. It also enables pedestrians to differentiate one part of the building from another, allowing them to know which particular entrance will lead them to their unit. The vibrant colors also help give the building character, a notable feature that many locals have enjoyed in Baker’s previous project down the street.21 Color is used to personalize units and also helps identify entrances and exits. Many of those who run the retail space in the complex or who work in the community service offices located within the site also live in the apartments or studios. This integration of work, live, and play is what drives the project and appeals to many residents. In the SIPA project, the combination of these three elements is ever present. The density of the project is another characteristic that is similar to the SIPA project. In order to provide enough units while creating several community spaces, the 8th & Howard Apartments uses the courtyard scheme with double-loaded corridors. By pulling and pushing units, it helps break up the massing while also allowing for the placement of several windows throughout each unit.22 By integrating a pulling and pushing of the units, the redesign of the SIPA headquarters should be able to accommodate a high volume of units while still providing a large amount of windows for light and ventilation. The courtyard scheme will help promote cross ventilation while providing a large amount of open space. The use of semi-public spaces is also something that can be used in the SIPA project, especially since the Filipino American Cultural Center will encourage community interaction. By creating large gathering spaces, the building will feel more like an entire living experience rather than just a place to sleep at night.

Ibid. Ibid.

Fig. 37. Storefronts Source: dbarchitect.com

CASE STUDIES Fig. 38. Typical Floor Plan Source: dbarchitect.com

INTERVIEWS One of the very first steps in designing a building is interviewing the client. This is important because it establishes the needs of the clients while also forming a relationship that will later aid in creating decisions and resolving problems. When I started my thesis project research, I conducted several interviews with a variety of potential clients. In doing so, I learned about the roles that these clients played in forming what is known as Historic Filipinotown. Based on the client’s involvement with the Filipino American community and also based on a need for improvement, I chose a Filipino American community service group known as Search to Involve Pilipino Americans, otherwise known as SIPA, as the client. SIPA, having been established in 1972, has been an integral part of the Filipino American community, particularly in Historic Filipinotown. I chose this client because I felt moved by their passion to serve the community. I had also heard from several staff on previous visits that their building was in need of repair and expansion. I visited the SIPA headquarters on October 28, 2009 and interviewed SIPA’s outreach coordinator, Beverly V. Yanuaria. 23 I learned about SIPA’s mission, which is “to enhance the quality of life of Filipino Americans and other communities through youth development, health, economic, and social services.”23 One of their main focuses lies in the development of affordable housing. Through a cooperative relationship between SIPA and their clients, they are able to help low-income families acquire housing or begin a small business. By teaching them skills and conducting workshops on a personal level, SIPA is able to give them the opportunity to build an economically stable living situation.

The office has between 15-20 staff members, those of which cater to about 30-60 youth/day, 15-20 clients/day, 5-10 counseling patients, and about 50-100 community members per week. With such a high volume of people visiting their facility on a daily and weekly basis, they are in great need of more space, something that was stressed throughout the interview. In 2004, SIPA underwent a schematic design phase for the redesign of a new SIPA headquarters building with the addition of retail space and four stories of affordable housing. I was shown briefly the design and suggested program of the new building. One of the issues with developing the new building was budget constraints. By examining the proposed design in more detail, I hope to suggest a design that will create some alternative low-cost solutions. It was also mentioned that many other organizations use SIPA’s facilities for their own meetings, workshops, and performances. By creating larger gathering spaces that include modern technology, handling presentations and performances will be more feasible. After explaining my project requirements and the vision that I had for creating an iconic building for Filipinotown, Beverly and several other staff I interviewed agreed: Historic Filipinotown needs a physical identity. As of right now, the area can be identified culturally but has no permanent sign of characterization. SIPA has long been a part of Filipinotown’s identity therefore it only seemed fitting that such a prominent and well-respected organization begin Filipinotown’s architectural identity.

Beverly V. Yanuaria (Outreach Coordinator/ Community Educator, Los Angeles, CA), interview by Rachelle Favis, October 28, 2009.

Another interview I conducted was with Dennis Arguelles, Director of Community Economic Development and Real Estate.24 He worked closely with the architect for the proposed redesign of SIPA in 2004 and is knowledgeable of the schematic phase. He is also the coordinator for many of the affordable housing projects. Many of the same issues that Beverly brought about were addressed, however, it was made clear that the situation of security was a serious issue. With the limited number of staff at SIPA, it is difficult to keep an attentive watch on all the youth that come to use the facility each day. Dennis suggested placing all youth activities in a central core, such as a mezzanine within an atrium, with all the SIPA offices facing inward towards the youth area. It was also mentioned that privacy is an issue at the office. Many of the counseling sessions involve sensitive subjects, but very few offices have proper partitions for privacy and noise control. By designating the counseling rooms away from publicly accessible areas, privacy can be achieved and sounds can be controlled. Visibility from the street is another issue that was mentioned. There is a need for large open spaces in front of the building and also within the building so that people can congregate and join in community activities. By making a clear gesture of space in front of the building, it encourages pedestrian traffic. One of the last interviews I conducted involved several brief responses from Kanner Architects, a firm that was featured in one of my case studies. Much of the interview reflected ideas that I learned from the case study of 26th Street Low Income Housing Project. Some

advice given to me included a stress on circulation and efficiency. When dealing with a mixed-use project, it is important to separate services to retail and access to the residential portion of the building. Deliveries and trash were of the main concerns. A dedicated loading area would help prevent traffic building on the streets and will also help hide backof-house activity. Circulation was also addressed on a â&#x20AC;&#x153;private versus publicâ&#x20AC;? issue. Although community interaction is encouraged, security and privacy must still be maintained. This can be done by limiting public access to the building through designated routes. Parking should also be separate with public parking in a different area than that of residential. It was also suggested that when budgeting, I should consult manufacturers directly to get a quote. Basing costs on websites is not accurate. If possible, it was suggested that I also ask for samples so that when I present a material that the client may not know about, they can physically inspect the material. A specification sheet listing the materialâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chemical makeup and other important information will inform the client about lifespans, durability, etc. Although I was unable to receive a specific answer for design, many tips that were noted will help develop my design process in a more thorough and precise manner.

INTERVIEWS

24 Dennis Arguelles (Director of Community Economic Development and Real Estate, Los Angeles, CA), interview by Rachelle Favis, October 28, 2009. 25 Kanner Architects (Santa Monica, CA), interview by Rachelle Favis, November 19, 2009.*

*Interviewees included several unnamed architects. Interviews were conducted via email through the information assistant of the firm

NOTES

SIPA (Search to Involve Pilipino Americans), Historic Filipinotown, http://esipa.org/ourstory/filipinotown.html. Jessica S. Barnes and Claudette E. Bennett, The Asian Population: 2000, Census 2000 Brief, 2000 (Washington, DC: GPO, February 2002), 8. 3 SIPA, Mission, http://esipa.org/ourstory/mission.html. 4 Carina Monica Montoya, Los Angeles’s Historic Filipinotown (Arcadia Publishing, 2009), 91. 5 Mae Respicio Koerner, Filipinos in Los Angeles (Arcadia Publishing, 2007), 94. 6 Carina Monica Montoya, Los Angeles’s Historic Filipinotown (Arcadia Publishing, 2009), 91. 7 SIPA, Historic Filipinotown. http://www.esipa.org/ourstory/filipinotown.html (accessed October 21, 2009) 8 Dr. Michael J. Dear, H. Eric Schockman, and Greg Hise, ed., Rethinking Los Angeles (Metropolis & Region) (Sage Publications, 1996) 25. 9 Anatalio Ubalde, Filipino American Architecture, Design, & Planning Issues (Vallejo, CA: Flipside Press, 1996) 143-144. 10 Green Communities, “Madison @ 14th Apartments,” Enterprise Green Communities, http://www.greencommunitiesonline.org/projects/profiles/madison_apartments.pdf. 11 Affordable Housing Associates, “Foster Care Teenagers No Longer Homeless,” June 28, 2008. 12 Ibid. 13 American Institute of Architects, “Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects - Madison @14th Apartments in Oakland, California,” June 12, 2009. 14 Kanner Architects, “26th Street Low Income Housing Project,” Kanner Architects, http://www.kannerarch.com 15 Sarah Amelar, “Kanner Architects’ 26th Street Housing Provides Modern Comforts to Low-Income Tenants” Architectural Record, May 2008, page 133; July 2008, page 197. 16 Ibid. 17 Arch Innovations, “Kanner Architects - 26th Street Low Income Housing Project” Archinnovations, June 10, 2008. http://www.archinnovations.com/featured-projects/housing/ the-26th-street-low-income-housing-project/ 18 Sarah Amelar, 133; 197. 19 David Baker + Partners, “8th + Howard Family Apartments/Soma Studios,” David Baker + Partners, http://www.dbarchitect.com. 20 Nigel F. Maynard, “Soma Studios and 8th + Howard Apartments,” Builder, October 2004, http://www.builderonline.com/awards/soma-studios-and-8th--howard-apartments75865.aspx 21 Ibid. 22 Ibid. 23 Beverly V. Yanuaria (Outreach Coordinator/ Community Educator, Los Angeles, CA), interview by Rachelle Favis, October 28, 2009. 24 Dennis Arguelles (Director of Community Economic Development and Real Estate, Los Angeles, CA), interview by Rachelle Favis, October 28, 2009. 25 Kanner Architects (Santa Monica, CA), interview by Rachelle Favis, November 19, 2009. 1 2

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Affordable Housing Associates, “Foster Care Teenagers No Longer Homeless,” June 28, 2008. Amelar, Sarah, “Kanner Architects’ 26th Street Housing Provides Modern Comforts to Low-Income Tenants” Architectural Record, May 2008, page 133; July 2008,

American Institute of Architects, “Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects - Madison @14th Apartments in Oakland, California,” June 12, 2009.

Arch Innovations, “Kanner Architects - 26th Street Low Income Housing Project” Archinnovations, June 10, 2008. http://www.archinnovations.com/featured-projects/

BIBLIOGRAPHY

page 197.

housing/the-26th-street-low-income-housing-project/ Arguelles, Dennis (Director of Community Economic Development and Real Estate, Los Angeles, CA), interview by Rachelle Favis, October 28, 2009. Barnes, Jessica S. and Claudette E. Bennett, The Asian Population: 2000, Census 2000 Brief, 2000 (Washington, DC: GPO, February 2002), 8. David Baker + Partners, “8th + Howard Family Apartments/Soma Studios,” David Baker + Partners, http://www.dbarchitect.com.

Dear, Dr. Michael J., H. Eric Schockman, and Greg Hise, ed., Rethinking Los Angeles (Metropolis & Region) (Sage Publications, 1996) 25.

Green Communities, “Madison @ 14th Apartments,” Enterprise Green Communities, http://www.greencommunitiesonline.org/projects/profiles/madison_apartments.pdf.

Kanner Architects, “26th Street Low Income Housing Project,” Kanner Architects, http://www.kannerarch.com

Kanner Architects (Santa Monica, CA), interview by Rachelle Favis, November 19, 2009.

Koerner, Mae Respicio, Filipinos in Los Angeles (Arcadia Publishing, 2007), 94.

Maynard, Nigel F., “Soma Studios and 8th + Howard Apartments,” Builder, October 2004, http://www.builderonline.com/awards/soma-studios-and-8th--howard-apartments-

75865.aspx

Montoya, Carina Monica, Los Angeles’s Historic Filipinotown (Arcadia Publishing, 2009), 91.

SIPA (Search to Involve Pilipino Americans), http://esipa.org.

Yanuaria, Beverly V., (Outreach Coordinator/ Community Educator, Los Angeles, CA), interview by Rachelle Favis, October 28, 2009.

Ubalde, Anatalio, Filipino American Architecture, Design, & Planning Issues (Vallejo, CA: Flipside Press, 1996) 143-144.