THE COTTAGE LOFT: A HYBRID TYPOLOGY FOR AN EMERGING DEMOGRAPHICrnThe “Small Lot” concept allows for a single larger parcel in a multi-family zone to be legally subdivided into smaller lots of at least 600 square feet. One fully-detached, single-family home with an independent foundation may be built per lot. Unlike condominiums, no common walls are permitted. Also, the elimination of a condominium association makes the project more appealing for developers and their insurers.rnThe Los Feliz Cottage Lofts project, which represents a clever rethinking of how to subdivide land, includes six individually-owned contemporary cottages with double-height volumes and open floor plans that combine the benefits of private flexible townhouses with the advantages of a communal setting. This hybrid typology respondsrnto the need for greater density in Los Angeles while expanding the base of buyers who can afford to own their own home.rnThe site, in the foothills of Griffith Park, is entered from the street through a modest grove of trees and over a bamboo-lined bridge. Individual entrances unfold along a single, westerly promenade and promote a welcoming “front door” feeling. Each house is staggered to create four exposed sides, capitalizing on the opportunities forrnlight, air and ventilation - an arrangement reminiscent of single-family planning practices despite its intimate grouping. Taking advantage of the year-round mild Los Angeles climate, each home features generous windows and an elevated outdoor terrace for homeowners to personalize, as their own “outdoor living room” and a few of the residences have private rooftop decks as well. Flexible interior living spaces promote regular interior transformations depending on individual lifestyle preferences. All six residences have parking for two cars. Four three-story units are entered from their own private, enclosed garages, while two two-story units have private, covered carports with roof decks. rnThe project’s material palette includes zinc siding panels, integral color plaster walls and concrete and hardwood floors that reflect a clean, elegant, modern aesthetic that prioritizes low maintenance and long-termrndurability. Conventional wood studs and stucco construction are replaced by non-combustible steel, glass and light gauge studs, significantly increasing fire protection and safety. Rainwater is collected passively by utilizing the slope. Permeable pavers allow for the percolation, collection and redistribution of storm water to irrigate the landscape in the front yard via a unique retention basin. Provisions for solar domestic hot water and power generation further reflect the “green building” interests of the team.rnTHE LOS FELIZ COTTAGE LOFT SOLUTIONrnA recently emerging demographic in the domestic market is buyers who want to own their own homes, but for whom large yards and the required upkeep don’t hold the same appeal they once did. As lines between work and play have become increasingly blurred, people recognize the advantages of incorporating workspace into theirrnhomes. This type of urban infill is easily adaptable to living, entertaining and working, all in the same location.rnThe proximity to downtown business districts makes these flexible living spaces ideally suited for busy professionals and those with developing careers. With this innovative hybrid, The Los Feliz Cottage Lofts uniquely offer an innovative approach to living in Los Angeles.
Los Feliz
Year: 2010
THE COTTAGE LOFT: A HYBRID TYPOLOGY FOR AN EMERGING DEMOGRAPHICrnThe “Small Lot” concept allows for a single larger parcel in a multi-family zone to be legally subdivided into smaller lots of at least 600 square feet. One fully-detached, single-family home with an independent foundation may be built per lot. Unlike condominiums, no common walls are permitted. Also, the elimination of a condominium association makes the project more appealing for developers and their insurers.rnThe Los Feliz Cottage Lofts project, which represents a clever rethinking of how to subdivide land, includes six individually-owned contemporary cottages with double-height volumes and open floor plans that combine the benefits of private flexible townhouses with the advantages of a communal setting. This hybrid typology respondsrnto the need for greater density in Los Angeles while expanding the base of buyers who can afford to own their own home.rnThe site, in the foothills of Griffith Park, is entered from the street through a modest grove of trees and over a bamboo-lined bridge. Individual entrances unfold along a single, westerly promenade and promote a welcoming “front door” feeling. Each house is staggered to create four exposed sides, capitalizing on the opportunities forrnlight, air and ventilation - an arrangement reminiscent of single-family planning practices despite its intimate grouping. Taking advantage of the year-round mild Los Angeles climate, each home features generous windows and an elevated outdoor terrace for homeowners to personalize, as their own “outdoor living room” and a few of the residences have private rooftop decks as well. Flexible interior living spaces promote regular interior transformations depending on individual lifestyle preferences. All six residences have parking for two cars. Four three-story units are entered from their own private, enclosed garages, while two two-story units have private, covered carports with roof decks. rnThe project’s material palette includes zinc siding panels, integral color plaster walls and concrete and hardwood floors that reflect a clean, elegant, modern aesthetic that prioritizes low maintenance and long-termrndurability. Conventional wood studs and stucco construction are replaced by non-combustible steel, glass and light gauge studs, significantly increasing fire protection and safety. Rainwater is collected passively by utilizing the slope. Permeable pavers allow for the percolation, collection and redistribution of storm water to irrigate the landscape in the front yard via a unique retention basin. Provisions for solar domestic hot water and power generation further reflect the “green building” interests of the team.rnTHE LOS FELIZ COTTAGE LOFT SOLUTIONrnA recently emerging demographic in the domestic market is buyers who want to own their own homes, but for whom large yards and the required upkeep don’t hold the same appeal they once did. As lines between work and play have become increasingly blurred, people recognize the advantages of incorporating workspace into theirrnhomes. This type of urban infill is easily adaptable to living, entertaining and working, all in the same location.rnThe proximity to downtown business districts makes these flexible living spaces ideally suited for busy professionals and those with developing careers. With this innovative hybrid, The Los Feliz Cottage Lofts uniquely offer an innovative approach to living in Los Angeles.
Los Feliz
Year: 2010