The name Belvedere comes from Italian words Bel and Vedere meaning beautiful view. Aptly named the project site is flanked by Mt. Washington, Monterey hill and Rose hill on three sides offering spectacular views. We collaborated with a reputed developer Naim Associates Development from Los Angeles, CA to do schematic design, design development and construction documents for this 150,500 sq.ft. mixed use project located at 3836 N Figueroa St in LA. It consists of 100 apartment units and 14 retail spaces.

As located adjacent to the A Line of Los Angeles Metro Rail system the aim of this transit-oriented development project was to create a vibrant, liveable and sustainable community. It also aimed towards suburban renewal and revitalizing the area by developing this prime but underutilized site. With development of much needed affordable housing in the neighbourhood with 76% units of 2 bhk and 3 bhk, activating the street with two floors of retail, providing jobs for employees and dining and shopping options for neighbourhood residents the project serves a greater purpose.

This is one of the most exciting and challenging projects we have worked on. We developed multiple design options to reduce visual impact of the building mass to fit in the community that is predominantly surrounded by single family homes. The two main corners of the building at street intersections were designed with floors stepping back. The initial design concept was based on modern style with curvilinear balconies using perforated sheet metal railings defining the look and feel of the structure. This concept later evolved to mission revival style with large flat stucco surfaces punctuated with deep seated windows and double height columns and arches lining the outdoor area of retail/restaurant to contemporary style with clean, simple lines and geometric forms.

Belvedere offers over 25,000 sq.ft. podium area consisting of swimming pool, rock climbing walls, community kitchen/bar/dining and interactive sitting areas. The rooftop decks offers spectacular views with facilities like bbq, firepit, chaise lounges, picnic tables and landscaped areas. The existing trees at the northwest edge of the site are retained and a mini parkette is proposed offering neighbourhood residents a space to sit, relax and rejuvenate with outdoor dining areas.