LPA Design Studios’ design for the West Hollywood Park Aquatics and Recreation Center (ARC) recently received a Commercial Citation Award and a COTE Citation Award at the 2023 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Long Beach/South Bay Design Awards Gala. It was the only project to receive multiple honors at the event.
The Commercial Citation Award recognizes, in part, the project’s efforts to advance equity in the West Hollywood community. Replacing an aged facility, the ARC’s efficient use of space reduced the building’s footprint and returned precious square footage to the adjacent West Hollywood Park. LPA’s design process brought together a diverse population and resulted in spaces that enable citizens to connect in new ways. Since completion, the park and building have hosted a new summer day camp program, a local LBGTQ pride celebration, artist receptions and multiple dodgeball and pickle ball competitions.
WeHo ARC Earns Two AIA Long Beach/South Bay Design Awards
The sports court is spanned by a 100-foot mega truss supporting a rooftop pool.
The COTE Citation Award recognizes the LEED Gold-certified project’s sustainable performance. An energy-saving envelope and efficient systems help reduce the building’s energy consumption 90% from the AIA 2030 Commitment’s benchmark target. Power is supplemented by a 65kW rooftop photovoltaic array, and passive heating and cooling are achieved through natural ventilation, thermal mass and large format fans. Natural daylight fills the public spaces, and an automatic parking system minimizes the impact of cars on the site. One hundred percent of stormwater is managed on site.
“The architects created a dynamic, welcoming entry by introducing a bold stair assembly that connected the site and building,” the jury said. “The site planning was sensitive to the adjacent amenities while the architecture responded to the complex program with confidence and vibrancy.”
The two awards add to the ARC’s growing list of industry honors. The project has been honored with a Sustainable Innovation Award from the U.S. Green Building Council – LA Chapter, the Honor Award and COTE Honor Award from the AIA Orange County Chapter, a Los Angeles Business Council award, and an AIA Long Beach/South Beach Citation Award for unbuilt work.
