Project Data:

Completion Date:     1/1/2027

Square Footage:      428678

Building Use:           Multifamily Mixed-Use

Project Description:

Designing a landmark project along Route 66 in Rancho Cucamonga presented a myriad of challenges, requiring innovative solutions to align with the city’s ambitious vision of becoming a "world-class city." The site, located along the historic Route 66, demanded a design that honored the area's heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern architecture.

Unlike anything seen before in the area, the contemporary 7-story, 176-unit mixed-use residential development will guide the renaissance of the city’s architectural identity. The curvature of the street played a significant role in informing the building’s bowing shape, presenting a complex design challenge. Integrating the building into the existing urban fabric required a thoughtful approach to integrate with the surroundings while establishing a new architectural standard. Unique stair-stepping configurations along the façade aimed to create a sense of levity and symbolize the rising design standards of the city.

The mixed-use nature of the project added another layer of complexity. This out-of-the-box design solution involved a dynamic interplay of commercial uses on the ground floor with residential units wrapped around the centralized parking structure, leading to a hybrid building solution. Coined “Hywrap” the efficient building typology comprises an on-grade parking structure with 5 levels of Type-III wood-framed units over 2 levels of Type-I units within the concrete podium structure. This solution provides residents with direct access to units from the parking garage while concealing the structure from the street and maximizing space for amenities and common areas. Also, this strategic decision helped optimize costs without sacrificing structural stability and design integrity.

In deference to the local San Gabriel mountains, the façade is conceived as curved sculptures of horizontal and vertical protrusions that rise to roof decks at its peak. As it steps up, the pattern forms balconies, shielding residences from the desert sun, and providing privacy in an animated display of light and shadow, while also reducing the need for artificial cooling and enhancing energy efficiency.

Crowning the top floor is a luxurious 5,200 square-foot rooftop pool and spa deck offering unobstructed views of Mount San Antonio. The curved elements and wood tones are used inside the community spaces to evoke a sense of modern elegance and organic comfort, enhancing the living experience for residents. On the ground floor, the bustling retail corridor at Foothill Blvd. will activate the area with a vibrant 6,000-square-foot restaurant and retail program.

Overall, the project’s challenges were addressed through innovative design solutions, strategic planning, and close collaboration among all stakeholders. Recognizable for its curved shape and bold design, this project is unique to its context, establishing a catalyst for future projects in the area.

Design for Integration, Design for Ecosystems, Design for Economy 

Design for Integration:
This landmark project along Route 66 in Rancho Cucamonga engages the senses and connects people to the place, creating a unique experience for residents and visitors with its striking, bold, contemporary architecture. The stair-stepping configuration of the façade creates a dynamic visual rhythm, while the curvature of the building forms an organic-feeling urban development. The interplay of light and shadow on the building’s horizontal and vertical protrusions provides a constantly changing visual experience as the sun moves throughout the day. These design elements not only create an iconic landmark but also establish a visual dialogue with the surrounding fabric.
The building’s design thoughtfully integrates elements that connect residents to the natural environment. The balconies provide private outdoor spaces where residents can enjoy fresh air and unobstructed views, creating a direct connection to the natural surroundings. The rooftop pool and spa deck offer an elevated vantage point for taking in the scenic beauty of the San Gabriel mountains and Mount San Antonio, reinforcing a sense of place and appreciation for the local environment.
Visual artistical expression is realized through terraces that cascade down to an outdoor plaza at the prominent corner. The ground-floor retail and restaurant spaces create a vibrant public realm, encouraging residents and visitors to gather, socialize, and connect. The common areas and amenities, such as the fitness center and luxury clubhouses, provide spaces for residents to interact and build relationships, enhancing the sense of community. These unique placemaking principles make the development a distinctive and integral part of Rancho Cucamonga’s urban landscape.

Design for Ecosystem:
The organic shape of the building was dictated by the surrounding environment, connecting users with the local ecosystem. The bowing arc of the building facade responds to the natural curvature of the road, blurring the lines between the built environment and the natural environment. Structurally it maximizes natural light and offers unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and landscape. This connection to the natural world enhances residents' well-being and creates a sense of harmony with the environment. The project features ample outdoor spaces, including balconies, rooftop gardens, and communal courtyards, allowing residents to enjoy fresh air and connect with nature. These areas are designed to be inviting and accessible, encouraging regular interaction with the environment.
Located in a desert climate, the building's design utilizes solutions to reduce heat and increase energy efficiency through form and materials. The integration of renewable energy sources, like solar panels, further decreases the project's reliance on non-renewable energy. The project incorporates native and drought-tolerant plants in its landscaping design, reducing water consumption and supporting local biodiversity.

Design for Economy:
This development is not only a landmark for Route 66 but also a significant driver of economic vitality for Rancho Cucamonga. The project’s striking architectural presence and dynamic mixed-use program are set to reinvigorate Route 66, transforming it into a vibrant commercial and cultural hub. By introducing a neighborhood retail corridor with a 6,000-square-foot restaurant and diverse retail spaces, the development will attract foot traffic and generate economic activity.
Beyond its impact on Route 66, the mixed-use development will be the catalyst sparking urbanization and exciting architecture in the city. This new architectural vocabulary will contribute significantly to the broader economic landscape of Rancho Cucamonga. The addition of 176 residential units will increase the city’s housing supply, attracting new residents and enhancing the city’s appeal as a desirable place to live and work. The project’s success will serve as a model for future developments, demonstrating how innovative design and strategic investment can revitalize urban areas and drive economic growth.
Regarding constructability, the development will leverage new technology through the "Hywrap" building typology, which optimizes space and reduces construction costs. This hybrid approach efficiently uses materials and construction methods, balancing high performance with budget considerations.

Completion Date:     1/1/2027

Square Footage:      428678

Building Use:           Multifamily Mixed-Use

Location:                 Rancho Cucamonga, CA

AO

NA

Western Spire

Valued Engineering, Inc. (Civil)

SMP Environmental Design

NA

Unscripted Interiors

NA