A  New Edge to Hoover

The area of Hoover street between the USC campus and the entrance to the I-10 is characterized by diverse and historic architecture that is closed off to the street through private ownership and extensive barricades. Three predominant fence and building styles block off the public from experiencing the architecture in an area that bridges downtown LA and the USC campus. My goal is to propose a system that reconnects the public with the architecture, each other, and themselves through activity and form. 

My proposal is a system of three planes that each provide activity and connection to the built structures as well as enhanced social interactions. 

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1.  A pedestrian lane is inspired by the Victorian architecture and constructed of painted wood. It allows for pedestrians to efficiently travel the street without interruptions and with added horizontal diversity that allows for connection to the built. 

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2.  A skate lane is built of stucco inspired by the Mediterranean influenced architecture. Hoover’s bumpy sidewalks are now replaced by smooth terrain that adds activity to the road. It ends with a new boundary to the park that allows for function on and below itself- removing the preexisting fence that blocked off access. 

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3.  A stationary lane is intertwined between the other two. Bus stops, benches, study spots, and lookout views are stationed strategically to allow for students, families, and other pedestrians to take advantage of the location and environment of the space. 

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The road itself is altered. An added uber-lyft zone is recessed into the ground and a lane in the middle of the road allows for further pedestrian access in the space.

Year: Fall 2020

Site: Hoover Street

Material: Stucco, painted wood, concrete‏