The design of this tenant improvement for XAP Corporation evolved from the unique challenges and conditions presented by the client, the pioneer in electronic and Internet-based information management systems for college-bound students, and the exigencies created by the physical context—located within Culver City’s Hayden Tract complex, the challenge was to adhere to the strict design parameters of the site’s architect and owner. Even though the building is packed with program, it maintains an open, spacious feeling. The organizational strategy takes full advantage of the spatial qualities of the existing building—an industrial saw-tooth roof warehouse with exposed framework and dramatic clerestory windows at each structural bay.
While designed to serve as formal background, the workstation and office elements are well considered, meticulously crafted and elegantly realized. They establish a rigorous order for the sculptural feature elements to play against, without losing the clarity and coherence of the overall design. This allows the Board Room and Conference Room to become the formal focal points of the project, their organic, sculptural forms standing as distinct structures within the larger space. A marriage of art and technology, the exteriors of exposed curving steel and round bar give presence and life to each volume. In a twist on convention, the raw exterior is juxtaposed with an interior finished with plaster—smooth and refined. This material and textural counterpoint exemplifies XAP’s design, enhancing the dynamism and richness of the space.
Project Team:
Pugh + Scarpa Architects (architect)
Hinerfeld Ward Inc. (general contractor)
Benny Chan, Fotoworks (photography)
Awards:
AIA National Honor Award, 2002
AIA Los Angeles Award, 2001
