RAMPS, COURTYARDS, CIRCULATIONS 

Site: Van Nuys, a suburb of Los Angeles, CA

Course: 1GB Design Studio

Instructor: Andrew Zago

Assistant Teacher: Kaita Saito

Teaching Assistant: Jixun Wen

The project features a large central courtyard and three smaller courtyards, all integrated and defined by a continuous, flowing slope. This main slope, positioned at the center, delineates the smaller courtyards from the larger one. The smaller courtyards offer a more private space, designed specifically for children's care and play, while the larger courtyard remains open and accessible, catering to the general public.

The entire project resembles a park that is suitable for all ages, providing a delightful landscape for everyone to enjoy. The gently sloping main entrance leads visitors directly to the library, creating an entry experience that is both grand and ceremonial. 

In addition to the challenging task of designing a medium-sized, multi-programmed municipal building in Van Nuys, the 1GB Design Studio will also challenge me to think about how the building can connect with its surrounding natural environment. To achieve this, I plan to incorporate special ramps into the design that will seamlessly integrate the building with the landscape, creating a harmonious flow between the two.

Furthermore, I will aim to maximize the open space of the building, creating a sense of freedom and expansiveness that will enhance the overall experience of the space. By incorporating green roofs, outdoor gathering spaces, and other sustainable features, I hope to create a building that not only serves its purpose but also contributes to the well-being of the surrounding community and environment.

As we begin the design process for the Registrar-Recorder and County Clerk municipal building in Van Nuys, we are keenly aware of the building’s role in storing and certifying important documents, many of which date back to a time before digital formats and platforms were ubiquitous. We recognize that the current offices are not beautiful, nor do they evoke a sense of civic pride. Our goal is to create a building that represents an engaged citizenry and promotes a sense of community.

To achieve this, we plan to propose a courtyard block that offers a public forum at its center. The new 60,000 square foot building will replace the existing site of the LA County Registrar-Recorder building on the Van Nuys Civic Center campus, and will also absorb the programs of two other buildings occupying the same site: a local branch of the Los Angeles Public Library and a Childcare and Learning Center for employees of the Civic Center campus.

Designing a building to house such disparate programs requires a thoughtful and nuanced approach to access and circulation. The building must provide vastly different organizations and conditions for each program, while also creating a sense of unity and cohesion. The shared open courtyard at the center of the building will provide open air relief to occupants while also serving as a public amenity for the Civic Center campus.

In addition to meeting the functional needs of the building’s occupants, we plan to create a design that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the San Fernando Valley region. By incorporating elements of local architecture and design, we hope to create a building that feels deeply connected to its surroundings and reflects the diverse communities it serves.