The La Kretz Innovation Campus (LKIC) is an interdisciplinary hub where entrepreneurs, engineers, and policymakers innovate to support LA’s green economy. The campus comprises 3.2 acres, including a transformed 61,000 square-foot warehouse in the vibrant Arts District. LADWP facilities, offices, conference rooms, labs, prototyping workshops, and an event space accommodating up to 140 seated people, exist in hand with PV-shaded parking, greywater filtration, and a microgrid system.

The adaptive reuse of the building encompasses a full seismic retrofit, and the building’s exterior keeps its character. In contrast, the interior is designed to be modern, clean, flexible and adaptable, utilizing an economical but dynamic materials palette. The design features a ‘village’ concept, with a ‘loop’ that connects the existing 8 warehouse bays and a variety of semi-open and closed workspaces. The existing structure’s simplicity backdrops unexpected moments created by faceted walls, jewel-like skylight “funnels” bringing natural light to landlocked spaces, and a “living wall” in the lobby.

In its flexibility, accommodation of different types of programs, and transformation of existing building stock, LKIC sets a high standard for urban revitalization. The building conforms to the new CAL-Green environmental standards and LEED-Platinum status is anticipated.

AWARDS

• 2017 The Bruner Foundation, Rudy Bruner Silver Medal for Urban Excellence
• 2017 Los Angeles Business Council, Los Angeles and Mexico City Sustainable Real Estate Award
• 2017 Interior Design Best of Year Honoree, Office: Large Creative/Tech Category
• 2016 AIA|LA COTE LA Citation Award 
• 2016 ENR California, Green Award of Merit