Second year architecture student Stephanie Green has won the AIA Mobile Center Design Competition. Open to students at architecture schools throughout the region, the competition asked designers to envision the American Institute of Architects Los Angeles Chapter ’s Mobile Center for Architecture and Design. Selected by the AIA|LA Board of Directors, Stephanie’s winning proposal, The Capsule, was made to enable the AIA|LA to host a variety of activities within the confines of a structure loaded onto an eighteen-wheel truck with a width as narrow as nine feet.
The Capsule concept addresses the AIA|LA’s efforts for stronger community outreach in L.A., where the Mobile Center will include exhibition, classroom, and meeting spaces for various educational and community activities. AIA|LA Past President Douglas Teiger, AIA, who oversaw the competition, stated that Stephanie’s proposal can “expand the display area in such a small space, providing for larger exhibits and uses as the Mobile Center moves from location to location.” Her design features three curvilinear horizontal capsules that telescope from street to sidewalk. The smallest capsule is a pop-out balcony to connect the center with Los Angeles residents.
“Getting involved with the community not only brings connections together, but it also creates long lasting bonds,” Stephanie mentioned in her presentation for The Capsule. “With the open glass front, the Capsule expands into the surrounding area for both indoor and outdoor activities.” This transparency mirrors the intent of the Center itself. “The Mobile Center is a place that can stimulate discussion about urban design and the architecture that makes Los Angeles a great place to be,” said AIA|LA Executive Director Carlo Caccavale, Hon. AIA|LA, who envisioned the initiative. The design can accommodate a range of programming, including educating young students about architecture, expanding awareness and recognition for neighborhood architecture, and serving as a gathering place for design. Using Green’s conceptual drawings for The Capsule, the AIA|LA will move forward with steps to actualize the project and address the design of the Center as it develops.
Stephanie is optimistic about fostering community engagement in Los Angeles through design. “Capsule is a mobile center that can promote architecture through education, connect people to jobs, and bring companies together through education programs, parties or events, etc. The capsule is a versatile shell for its intended purpose that day, whether it’s educating students about architecture or connecting the city with firms for a better Los Angeles. Capsule is a mobile center to connect relationships.”
Stephanie’s submission will be on display at the AIA 2×8 event on May 22 from 6-8pm at Helms Bakery in Culver City.
Image Courtesy Stephanie Green