The city of Santa Monica was celebrated at the 44th Annual Los Angeles Architectural Awards on May 4 at a gala luncheon hosted by the Los Angeles Business Council that drew hundreds of architects, designers and building professionals. More than 35 projects from across the architectural spectrum were recognized at the Beverly Hilton for design excellence and community impact.
Santa Monica was recognized for the recently-completed Tongva Park and Ken Genser Square. Designed by James Corner Field Operations, the parks feature a dramatic topography and series of braided paths to create a unique public space. Tongva Park and Ken Genser Square are part of a community-sourced vision to bring life, people, places, and economic vitality, back to Santa Monica's centrally-located Civic Center.
"The L.A. Architectural Awards celebrate truly outstanding projects that demonstrate an unyielding commitment to great design and meaningful sustainability," said Los Angeles Business Council President Mary Leslie. "Today's winners enhance our quality of life and prove that Los Angeles remains a global hub for world-class architecture."
The grand prize went to the new Emerson College Los Angeles facility in Hollywood. U.S Representative Xavier Becerra presented the Community Impact Award to the L.A. River, honoring the organizations that have supported the revitalization of the river. Other winners included the Ace Hotel in Downtown L.A. and the Forum in Inglewood.
"The opportunity to reclaim space and restore a natural environment for public use doesn't come along every day. We're thrilled with the results and appreciate the recognition from the Los Angeles Business Council. Tongva Park and Ken Genser Square truly are places for people," said Santa Monica Mayor Pam O'Connor.
Located in Santa Monica's Civic Center area at 1615 Ocean Ave., Tongva Park and Ken Genser Square opened to the public in October 2013. To learn more, visit smgov.net/TongvaPark.
