Project Data:

Completion Date:     10/1/2024

Square Footage:      555221

Building Use:           Mixed-Use

Project Description:

Positioned as the primary east-west conduit of the city, an immersive mixed-use community is set to emerge from the confines of a triangular infill property, presenting a bold demonstration of form, function, and livability. Encircled by prominent thoroughfares on all sides, the project’s design is driven by the sites unique shape and the surrounding active context, leveraging its island-like setting to create a highly amenitized, mixed-use urban oasis - comprised of a thoughtful blend of residential, retail, commercial, and open space enriching the overall community.

Located within the inner retail corridor, an ingeniously designed skylight stretches from the ground level, casting its luminance through two tiers to grace the residential courtyard situated above. The organic configuration not only imparts a distinct character to the development but also ushers in a celestial aura, imbuing the parcel with natural light and ventilation. This dynamic aperture not only serves as an architectural flourish but becomes a conduit for establishing a palpable connection between the indoors and outdoors.

As it unfurls, the development will transcend mere physical structures, evolving into a thriving ecosystem where commerce, leisure, and living coalesce harmoniously. The geometric ingenuity of the architecture, the interplay of light and shadow, and the purposeful allocation of verdant patches all combine to create a holistic living experience that sets new benchmarks in modern urban lifestyles.

A pivotal contribution of this endeavor will be much-needed community open space, epitomized by the emergence of the new Machado Park, which sits adjacent to the single-family community. This communal greenscape not only extends a warm embrace to the residents through a welcoming tenant lobby but also extends an open invitation to the public, beckoning them to congregate and engage. Meticulously sited and purposefully crafted, this gateway elevates the community delivering an incomparable urban oasis.

Framework for Design Excellence

Design for Integration
The purpose of 11111 Jefferson is balancing urbanization with conscious planning, providing human habitation enveloped in nature. This community-inspired design provides residents and the surrounding neighborhood with equitable access to housing, shopping, and nearly 30,000 SF of greenspace.
To engage the senses and connect people to place, publicly accessible paseos and walkways meander and weave a path through lush landscape and undulating architecture. Unique patterns, shapes and textures provide a sensory journey throughout the development.
An integral portion of the development is the emergence of Machado Park, creating much-needed open space in the community, a place where the community gathers and celebrates together is something worth fighting for.


Design for Equitable Communities
11111 Jefferson’s thoughtful blend of residential, retail, and commercial spaces encourages a diverse mix of people to live, work, and interact within the same vicinity. This promotes social and economic diversity, fostering a sense of community that transcends socioeconomic boundaries.
With tens of thousands of new jobs being created in and around Culver City, and little new housing for them, the state is requiring Culver City to build over 3,000 new housing units by 2028. 11111 Jefferson will bring 230 apartments of various sizes – studios, one bedroom, and two bedroom – designed with diversity of residents in mind. 19 of the units will be set aside for those qualifying for “very low” income housing; eligibility and rents for “very low” units are set by state and local government agencies. 2 of the units will be set aside for those qualifying for "workforce housing."
The project's meticulous attention to detail, such as the organic skylight and communal open spaces, creates a human-scaled environment that promotes intimacy and a sense of belonging. The blend of various functions within the development also ensures that spaces cater to human interaction and comfort.
Opportunities exist to create an inclusive environment, with cultural representation and spaces for diverse cultural activities should be considered. The inclusion of the Machado Park and its accessibility to both residents and the public promotes social equity. This communal space becomes a platform for social interactions, cultural exchange, and community gatherings. By creating spaces that facilitate interactions among diverse groups, the project fosters a sense of unity and mutual understanding, contributing to a more just and cohesive society.
The project's strategic placement at a pivotal urban crossroads promotes walkability. This, in turn, contributes to a more active and healthier lifestyle for residents and visitors. The layout encourages people to explore the area on foot, fostering a sense of connection and vibrancy.
The project team remains committed providing the community with a “seat at the table” and engaging in a transparent decision-making process that involves input from neighbors and community stakeholders.

Design for Economy
The integration of retail and commercial spaces stimulates economic activity within the community. Local businesses, from small boutiques to restaurants, can thrive in this environment, enhancing the neighborhood's economic vitality and providing opportunities for entrepreneurship. Grocery, dining, and retail options will be hand-selected to meet the neighborhood’s day-to-day needs while improving the local shopping experience. 11111 Jefferson will also improve the accessibility to neighborhood shopping and retail with expanded walkways, patio dining, open space and greenery, and new connections to the expanding bike path network.
Balancing design choices begins at conception. Integrating economic, environmental, cultural, and experiential considerations from the start will garner a holistic approach. This ensures that the project is not optimized for one aspect at the expense of others, such as balancing design choices and costs with long-term value.
Implementing energy-efficient technologies and systems, such as LED lighting, smart HVAC controls, and efficient insulation can reduce operational costs over time without changing the overall design. The open nature of the architecture allows for ample natural ventilation and daylight and the flexibility of spaces can change and adapt to changing needs.

Design for Well-being
11111 Jefferson places an emphasis on a healthy lifestyle with the integration of green spaces and parks. These areas provide natural respite, encourage outdoor activities, and contribute to both experiential and natural enhancement. They also improve the quality of life for the community.
The development includes uses that are inclusive and welcoming for the whole community. From mixed-income housing to publicly accessible open green space, this local oasis welcomes everyone with thoughtful design and the opportunity to connect.
Widened, interconnected internal bike and walking paths will be designed to improve flow and create a better pedestrian experience. All sidewalks surrounding the project will be widened, and lushly landscaped. The project will build a new traffic signal and pedestrian-friendly crossing at major project intersection. A bike-friendly design will extend bike lanes along local streets to connect to the Ballona bike path, while providing bike stalls for residents and customers. Aimed at embracing a car-light transportation lifestyle 11111 Jefferson is located adjacent to public transit, connecting the project to key regional employment centers.
The geometric ingenuity of the architecture, the interplay of light and shadow, and the purposeful allocation of flourishing greenery all combine to create a holistic living experience that sets new benchmarks in modern urban lifestyles.

Firm Name:              AO

Completion Date:     10/1/2024

Square Footage:      555221

Building Use:           Mixed-Use

Location:                 Culver City, CA

Design Architect:
collab with wHY Architecture

Associate Architect or Firm:

Landscape Architect:
AO

Owner / Developer:
The John Buck Company
3MR Capital

Engineer:
Interior Designer: Ryan Young Interiors
Civil Engineer: Kimley-Horn

General Contractor:
CLAYCO Construction

Consultant:

Photographer: