Steve Jobs talked about his connection to the outdoors. So we said, 'Let's take that approach. Let's make sure every employee has access to the outdoors within one floor.' So we took a series of two-story buildings and stacked them on top of each other, and put gardens in between them. — latimes.com

Unlike more traditional colleges, SCI-Arc, as it is known, has no lawn or central quad to accommodate graduation ceremonies and other big events. The school uses the parking lot for such gatherings, but it lacks amenities and charm, despite remarkable views of downtown skyscrapers.

Now an ambitious project is in the works to create what teachers and students believe will fill the need and become a landmark in a neighborhood that is morphing from gritty to artsy. — latimes.com

In a speech to lay out his record and his vision on making Los Angeles a more livable city, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced Wednesday that he wants to build 50 pocket parks in the next two years. — latimesblogs.latimes.com

With conservation restrictions protecting the facade, Pawson focused on streamlining the interior and rear garden. Using a glass wall and a long continuous counter, the minimalist blurred the line between interior and exterior space spectacularly. Plus, unlike many of Pawson's stark interiors, his home boasts a blast of bold color, courtesy of the verdant green vines in the courtyard. — curbed.com