Just when we think we know everything there is to know about each other we realize we don't. For example, we all knew that Laura is a brilliant student of architecture, a gifted designer, and a fine human being, but what we didn't realize is that she has a knack for knitting all these qualities together.  Case in point: Laura's final project in her Arc 301 class at Cal Poly Pomona, Extended University, was part of a collaborative effort to create a truly functional, comfortable, and adaptable temporary camp for disaster relief. Using her knowledge of organic chemistry, Laura designed an ordered system of prefabricated units that can change configuration based on need. The parts are stackable, lightweight and easy to transport.

Prefab wall units are 8 feet wide by 8 feet high and when connected form a hexagon with an interior floor area of 166 square feet.

Another reason Laura chose to design the shelter in this way was so the displaced residents of the camp could customize their own temporary home, configuring walls, doors, and storage shelves to suit the size and specific needs of the family. The freedom to customize encourages a sense of ownership and control over one's immediate environment. It's a humanist approach to design - sensitive to the importance of allowing those in crisis to maintain some semblance of dignity. 

 
Laura says she loves to design but her true calling is to find ways to use architecture as a vehicle for aid and recovery for people in crisis. This fabulous and thoughtful project proves that she is on the right path. 

Oh how I love to deliver good news - and it abounds here at RPA. Where to begin....well, how about the fact that the Barn Lofts was just announced as a finalist in the Unbuilt category of the Multi-Housing News Design Excellence Awards?!  We were named with two other finalists and I have to say that our groovy adaptive reuse project stands out among its competitors. I admit I'm partial but take a look for yourself and tell me that our design team hasn't done a great job creating something special near downtown L.A.  Our very own Bridget spent hours bent over her drafting table keyboard working on the renderings that we submitted in the award binder - even though she should be spending every waking hour studying for her licencing exams (she passed two more and has four to go!)  Our summer intern, Michelle, also was a star performer by putting together a submittal that would make her mother proud. 

There's also some good news that I can't reveal just yet. But I promise to make the announcement as soon as we're given the green light. Here's a clue: it has to do with architecture.

I can reveal this, however: two of our residential projects have just wrapped up and we're getting ready to photograph them for posterity. Be sure to check back at the end of the summer or early fall to see the photos of the lovely Mandeville Canyon and 33rd Street residences.

And how could I forget to announce that constructon finally started on the renovation of Rocky and Amy's house. It's been underway for a couple months but the number of years it took to get that thing going....whew. We can't wait for the open house party!