La Residential Architecture: Embracing Diversity

In the sprawling canvas of the Los Angeles built environment, residential architecture takes on a myriad of forms, mirroring the city’s dynamic cultural landscape and colorful and rich design heritage. At Plana, we embark on each project as an interaction with our clients, their lifestyles, and needs, understanding that the resulting design is a living reflection of these conversations, rather than an adherence to any specific style.

Celebrating Authentic Interactions in Architecture

Our philosophy at Plana revolves around crafting spaces that resonate with the personalities and lives of our clients. Each home becomes a testament to our collaborative journey, with the design process serving as a canvas for individuality. Gone are the days of merely dictating style; we believe that the true essence of architecture lies in creating spaces that capture unique narratives.

Unveiling LA’s Architectural Palette

Now, let’s delve into the fascinating architectural tapestry of Los Angeles, where homes speak in different dialects, yet all are part of the same conversation.

Caliterranean: A Quirky Imitation

Ah, the “Cali-terranean ” a term I’ve coined to describe the whimsical homes that mimic European Mediterranean and Spanish styles, but here in California and nothing like the houses in the Mediaterraneo. With not quite the charm of the Old World, these houses sometimes tiptoe into inauthentic territory. But, hey, there’s something endearing about their playful nod to history. It’s like watching a Shakespeare play performed with emoji costumes. I mean, I am one emoji fan, but it’s no Shakespeare!

Modern Farmhouse: A Modern Twist

In the world of modern farmhouse chic, black and white reign supreme. These spacious mansions, sprawling over 5000 square feet, at least the ones I’ve seen around Encino, blend modern aesthetics with traditional American shiplap façades and classical columns. It’s as if modernity decided to don a tuxedo. But let’s be honest, sometimes I wonder if the farmhouse ever secretly longs for its more rustic days, maybe it dreams of rolling wheat fields and open pastures.

Nature’s Embrace: A Modern Haven

Picture this: a sleek, modern house nestled amidst lush greenery. With a perfect balance of natural elements and contemporary design, it’s a serene haven. This modern dwelling proves that nature’s touch isn’t just for the countryside; it can thrive in the heart of a metropolis. It’s like nature and architecture had a playdate, and they both had a blast. I’m really into this!

Charming Spanish Bungalows & Mid-Century Marvels

Hollywood’s Spanish bungalows whisper tales of the past, while mid-century modern houses capture the essence of a time that celebrated clean lines and organic integration. These styles, seemingly worlds apart, unite in their ability to transcend eras and still resonate with modern sensibilities. It’s like the buildings are time travelers, fitting seamlessly into any era.

Renovating Atomic Ranches: A Journey to the Past

Atomic ranch houses, remnants of a bygone era, are reborn through renovation, their mid-century essence seamlessly merging with contemporary living. It’s a beautiful dance of heritage and innovation, a tribute to the enduring spirit of design. It’s like the houses found a time machine and brought back the best of both worlds.

The Intersection of Architecture and Personality

As I reflect on LA’s diverse architectural landscape, one thing becomes clear: a well-designed house isn’t just a structure; it’s a mirror reflecting the lives within. Our design journey at Plana reminds us that original architecture blooms from the originality of its occupants.

In the heart of LA’s architectural fusion, we find a tale of individuality, a symphony of styles, and a testament to the creative spirit that defines this city.

Stay tuned for more design adventures in our next diary entry.

#designdiversity #environmentaldesign #lahomestyles #design #architecture

Designing for Tomorrow’s Leaders: Crafting Inspiring K-12 Educational Spaces

In the grand tapestry of human development, early education stands as a pivotal chapter. It’s the time when young minds absorb knowledge, values, and aspirations that will shape their journey forward. Yet, beyond the curriculum and pedagogy lies another equally vital dimension—the environment in which this education unfolds. At Plana Architects, we’re more than architects; we’re custodians of spaces where young minds flourish, where dreams are nurtured, and where tomorrow’s leaders take their first steps.

The Power of Early Education: Building Blocks of a Bright Future

The impact of early education reverberates across a lifetime. Countless studies underscore the formative role it plays in shaping cognitive, emotional, and social development. It’s a stage where curious eyes absorb the world around them, where young hearts seek the embrace of knowledge, and where the seeds of curiosity are sown. But just as fertile soil nurtures seeds into towering trees, the environments in which education takes place are equally vital.

Spaces as Catalysts for Learning: The Heart of the Matter

Imagine classrooms that breathe with inspiration, auditoriums that amplify voices of young artists, specialty classrooms that foster curiosity, and outdoor spaces that transform into learning landscapes. At Plana Architects, we understand that the design of K-12 educational facilities isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about crafting environments that are extensions of the curriculum itself.

Basking in Natural Light: Illuminating the Path to Excellence

Natural light is a conduit for growth and inspiration. Sunlight streaming through windows isn’t mere illumination; it has multiple benefits ranging from improved focus and overall well being. It’s no secret that well-lit spaces positively impact mood, learning, and productivity. In our designs, we harness the sun’s radiance to create vibrant spaces where students and educators can thrive.

Furniture as Facilitators of Learning: Beyond Utility to Creativity

Furniture isn’t confined to its utilitarian purpose; it’s a facilitator of learning. In our designs, furniture is more than tables and chairs; it’s an invitation to collaboration, to exploration, and to limitless creativity. We recognize that furniture is one of the most important aspects of designing K-12 spaces like a silent conductor of a symphony of ideas, and we weave it seamlessly into the fabric of our designs. You can have a beautifully designed classroom with daylight and and an abundance of space and storage, but if the furniture doesn’t work, the whole thing is a blow.\

The Heart of the Classroom: Co-Designing with Educators

Teachers are the torchbearers of knowledge, they in fact become the architects of young minds. That’s why our approach extends beyond construction documents, schedules and CAD files; it’s a dialogue, a collaboration with educators and school staff. By understanding their needs and their process, we ensure that our designs address critical aspects of learning environments. It’s through this partnership that our projects become vessels of inspiration and growth.

From Blueprint to Reality: Transforming Challenges into Triumphs

Working within existing campuses comes with its unique set of challenges. Yet, it’s within these challenges that we find our greatest triumphs. We’ve navigated intricate paths to seamlessly integrate new structures with old, to create a harmonious blend of heritage and innovation. Our development of classroom standards ensures consistency, not conformity, in design.

A Legacy for the Future: Crafting Spaces that Echo with Time

As architects, we’re keenly aware that children are the ultimate beneficiaries of our work. It’s their footsteps that will echo through these corridors, their laughter that will resonate in these halls. Every decision we make, every design we conceive, bears the weight of responsibility and the promise of transformation. Spaces we shape today are not just bricks and mortar; they are portals of possibility.

Invitation to Co-Create: A Call to Architects, Educators, and Dreamers]

The spaces where education unfolds hold immeasurable potential. They’re more than structures; they’re sanctuaries of discovery, laboratories of inspiration, and theaters of growth. To architects, designers, educators, and school personnel, we extend an invitation—a call to ponder the significance of every wall, every window, every corner. Together, let’s craft spaces that inspire brilliance, ignite passion, and nurture dreams.

Let’s journey hand in hand, shaping spaces that mold not just the minds of young learners, but the very fabric of our shared future. Because, in the end, what we create isn’t just architecture; it’s a legacy, a legacy that lives on through the generations of learners whose lives we touch.

Let’s dream, design, and co-create. Let’s imagine spaces that leave indelible imprints on hearts, minds, and the world beyond.

#education #environmentaldesign #K-12 #design #architecture

The Symbiotic Dance of Architecture and Nature: A Harmonious Symphony

Every piece of architecture or building is more than just a structure; it is an integral part of an environment. As it stands in its place, it engages in a profound dialogue with its surroundings. This dynamic relationship underscores the undeniable truth that any architectural creation exists within an ecosystem, and that environment invariably shapes how objects occupy space.

The Art of Framing: Landscaping and the Architectural Canvas

The juxtaposition of nature and architecture isn’t mere coincidence; it’s a deliberate orchestration. Imagine a building that stands amid a sea of green, embraced by carefully chosen plants and thoughtful landscaping. This frame not only enhances the aesthetics of the structure but also molds the very experience of being within its walls. The use of landscaping to accentuate architectural elements creates a synergy that amplifies the humane nature of the space.

Beyond Green Façades: Navigating the Labyrinth of Sustainability

Sustainability and environmentalism have become rallying cries in the world of architecture. It’s not enough to merely drape a building in ivy or bedeck its roof with an assortment of plants. Greenwashing, a deceptive practice that champions environmental ideals without true commitment, can lure us into believing that a façade festooned with greenery equates to a genuinely sustainable edifice. But the truth is, sustainability goes deeper. It’s about energy efficiency, mindful material selection, and holistic design that reduces a building’s ecological footprint.

The Earth’s Embrace: Natural Materials as Building Blocks

If architecture is the poetry of space, then the choice of materials is its language. Incorporating natural materials like wood and stone isn’t just an aesthetic decision; it’s a conscious nod to nature’s inherent elegance and durability. These materials establish an authentic connection to the Earth, evoking a sense of timelessness while reducing the ecological burden associated with synthetic alternatives.

Unveiling Nature’s Hidden Palette: Views and Light as Design Elements

Nature’s touch is not confined to what we construct but extends to how we perceive space. The interplay of light and shadow, coupled with strategically framed views of the outside world, infuse life into a building. The dance between interior and exterior, as sunlight filters through windows and landscapes blur the line between in and out, adds layers of depth to architectural narratives.

Invitation to a Greener Tomorrow: Embracing Nature with Purpose

In the symphony of architecture and nature, each note plays a crucial role. As stewards of design, we wield the power to harmonize these elements in ways that celebrate our environment and humanity. Beyond the superficial allure of “green” exteriors, lies a realm where every material choice, every spatial arrangement, every breath of natural light is a conscious act of coexistence.

So, let’s bridge the gap between architecture and nature with a commitment to thoughtful design. Let’s champion sustainable practices that extend beyond fleeting trends and delve into the heart of environmental responsibility. Let’s remember that every building is a testament to our values, a reflection of our symbiotic relationship with the world around us.

In the end, it’s not just about creating structures; it’s about crafting experiences that transcend time and space. Let’s embrace nature as our ultimate collaborator, weaving its elegance into the very fabric of our architectural endeavors. As we design, let’s dance with the environment, composing a harmonious symphony that resonates for generations to come.

#nature #environmentaldesign #sustainability #design #architecture

dope designer club

I am thrilled to announce the launch of my new video podcast, the Dope Designer Club!!!

We are all creative in different ways and this podcast is all about the various facets of creative thinking and explores the journeys of individuals who are using their creativity it to make something truly wonderful whether it is beauty of social change and everything in between.

I started this podcast with the intention of sharing my passion for the creative process with others and I wanted to create a platform that showcases successful individuals within the industry and beyond! I also realized through this that it is an excellent opportunity for me to learn from others' experiences, insights and gain inspiration. I hope you will too!

Each episode features different guests, each with their unique story and perspective. These guests are a diverse group of people; creative minds from various fields, such as designers, artists, photographers, writers, attorneys, etc. who will share what has driven their success and how they have harnessed their creativity, drive and critical thinking to become leaders in their respective fields.

#DopeDesignerClub #designtalk #creativity #designinspiration #podcast #video #designer

the only constant is change

𝐋𝐞𝐭'𝐬 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞! 

I recently wrote an article about the importance of accepting change in both your personal and professional life. Change is inevitable, and the only constant in life, so it's essential to learn how to adapt and embrace new challenges.

In the article, I share some practical tips and advice on how to navigate change effectively. From shifting your mindset to developing new skills and building a support network, there are many ways to make change work for you.

So if you're feeling overwhelmed by a recent change or want to prepare for something new, be sure to check out my article. Let's learn to embrace change and all the opportunities it brings! 

#ChangeIsGood #EmbraceChange #LifeLessons #PersonalDevelopment #ProfessionalDevelopment #Adaptability #MindsetShift #SupportNetwork #NewOpportunities #SuccessTips #ArticleWriting #CareerAdvice #LinkedInPost #change #work #share #opportunities #network #mindset #building

minimalist lightness with function

At Plana Architects we are known for our sleek and timeless signature style that marries certain minimalist lightness with function. Our designs have made their way into now countless buildings and spaces in Los Angeles and surrounding areas and are highly sought after by those seeking an elevated aesthetic balanced with a pragmatic bottom line.

However, what sets Plana Architects apart is our unwavering commitment to collaborating with our clients to ensure that their spaces reflect their style and lifestyles. Our team understands that each client has their unique tastes and preferences, and we take the time to listen and incorporate their ideas to create a truly bespoke design.

We believe that this approach to collaboration has yielded superior results, that go beyond what we could have ever imagined on our own. By blending our signature minimalism with our client's vision we are able to create stunning spaces that stand the test of time. Our clients laud us for our attention to detail and our ability to execute their vision effortlessly, making us one of the rare partners and top firms in the industry.

#PlanaArchitects #Collaboration #HighDesign #Minimalism #BespokeDesign #Functionality #TimelessSpaces #SuperiorResults #Architecture #InteriorDesign #🏢📐📏💻🌟

timeless design

As we continue to evolve in a world of modernization, so does the way we live. We now seek spaces that offer both functionality and timeless design. At Plana Architects, we strive to create spaces that truly speak to our clients' needs, and one of our early projects is the Burton Way mixed use development in Beverly Hills.

Our vision for the Burton Way development is to create a living space that promotes community, creativity and timelessness. We have incorporated amenities such as a rooftop garden, which adds a natural element and allows residents to enjoy the beautiful views of Beverly Hills. The rooftop garden is a perfect place to unwind, gather with friends and family and even grow a garden.
In addition to the rooftop garden, we have also integrated art into the development, creating a space that is both a functional and artistic complement. We believe that art can transform bland spaces into something unique and memorable.

At Plana Architects, we strive to create a community in our developments. Burton Way offers residents the ability to live, work and shop all within one convenient location. By providing retail and commercial spaces, we create a dynamic atmosphere full of excitement and convenience.

The Burton Way development aligns with our promise to balance functionality with timeless design. We are dedicated to creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve the needs of the community. We believe that homeowners today want a space that is both visually stunning and practical.

#luxuryliving #functionaldesign #rooftopgarden #artintegration #communityspaces #retailandcommercial #modernliving #burtonwaybeverlyhills #planarchitects 🌇🌱🏙️🎨🏬🏢

designing school buildings

At Plana Architects designing school buildings and campuses goes beyond just creating aesthetically pleasing structures. We understand that many schools have existing building inventory, and with developing new programs, it involves reusing these structures and reimagining them in new and innovative ways.

One such example of our approach is the recent remodeling of an existing building from the 50s which was transformed into art classrooms, an athletic center and administrative offices. In redesigning the spaces, we looked for innovative ways to use what was already present to create something that was more than the sum of its parts.

Our team of architects, designers and planners are committed to creating functional and educational spaces that are also sustainable and cost-effective. We work closely with our clients and stakeholders to identify their needs and goals, and then utilize our expertise to design unique and innovative solutions that meet those objectives.

In our approach, we focus on creating flexible and adaptable spaces that can accommodate changes in the future. We also prioritize the use of natural lighting, energy-efficient HVAC systems and sustainable materials to create environmentally conscious and healthy learning environments.

At Plana Architects, we are dedicated to creating inspiring and transformative spaces that empower students, educators and communities. We believe that every school building and campus should reflect the values and aspirations of its users, and our approach ensures that the spaces we design do just that.

#SchoolDesign #EducationalSpaces #Sustainability #Innovation #school #schools #educators #students #design #art #team #work #architects #designers #learning #future #energy #hvac #building #sustainable 🍎

open letter to emerging (design) professionals

To start off, I would consider myself to be a part of this group with the only exception that I have been #emerging for quite some time now, decades even! Emerging is the same thing as growing, or becoming. I consider myself a lifelong learner and even if I am an expert (imposter) in my field I've always felt and I know it in fact that there is so much more to discover and improve upon.

I've recently had one of these deep conversations with my own team at Plana Architects about things we could be doing to improve our process and level up as a team. Can you see a theme here? Here are some key points I would like share:

1. Communication.
2. Output.
3. Roles and Responsibilities.
4. Follow Up and Follow Through.

So with these few tips I'm hoping to remind you and myself that to emerge, or become, or level up... we must stay productive, work together and do the legwork. And for the creepy bunny from the cover image, he too is leaping forward!

 #FollowThroughForSuccess #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork #ResponsibilityIsKey #QualityOverQuantity #EffectiveCommunicationMatters #ProactiveProfessionalism #DeliverOnPromises #CollaborationIsCrucial #ExceedExpectations #AccountabilityAlways

creating education spaces

Art and play are crucial components in creating educational spaces that promote positive child development. Research has shown that incorporating creative activities and playful interactions into learning environments can have long lasting effects on a child's cognitive, social, and emotional growth.

From painting and drawing to building with blocks and engaging in imaginative play, these activities help children develop important skills like critical thinking, problem solving, and communication. They also provide opportunities for self-expression and emotional regulation.
As we continue to evolve and improve our educational spaces, it's important to remember the importance of art and play in creating nurturing and enriching environments for children.

#art #play #education #childdevelopment #learningthroughplay #creativity #imagination #criticalthinking #communication #selfexpression #emotionalregulation #learningisfun #educationforall #futuregenerations #🎨🏫🙌👩‍🎨

top 5 ways to protect your home from hazards

In this last segment of my residential series I discuss the unpopular topic of hazards!

Here are my top 5 ways to protect yourself and your home from natural and other disasters.

1. Look up your home insurance policy
2. Are you in a hazard zone? look it up!
3. Due diligence. Inspect your property and make simple improvements and corrections to minimize risk and exposure to hazards
4. Check your building envelope
5. Safety / emergency response planning

#residential #architecture #architecturedaily #architecturedesign #residentialdesign #residentialdevelopment #homebuyers #homeconstruction #home #homeimprovement #homeimprovementprojects #locationlocationlocation #homedesign #homedesigner #homedesigninspiration #homeinsurance #homeinsuranceclaim #homeinsurancepolicy #insuranceindustry #floods #floodrisk #insurance #hazard #hazardzone #zimas #firesafety #fireprotection #homeinspection #buildingenvelope #roofing #emergencyresponse #duediligence #safety #planning #building #naturaldisaster #property

how to add value to your house

In this residential series I write about my own experiences as both an architect but also someone who is constantly in some form of construction at home!

Today's topic - how to add value! Here are my top suggestions:

1. Curb appeal or how to improve the appearance of your house from the street
2. Bathrooms and kitchen improvements
3. Upgrading doors and windows
4. Adding square footage - ADUs, additions, etc.
5. Adding solar or other alternative energy sources (PVs, geothermal, etc.)
6. Investing in interiors - furniture, lighting, art!

This article is Part 2 of a series I created relating to residential design.

#construction #architect #windows #funiture #lighting #adu #additions #bathroomdesign #kitchendesign #upgradeyourhome #solarenergy #photovoltaic #alternativeenergy #residential #architecture #architecturedaily #architecturedesign #residentialdesign #residentialdevelopment #homebuyers #homeconstruction #home #homeimprovement #homeimprovementprojects #locationlocationlocation #homedesign #homedesigner #homedesigninspiration #investing #art #furniture #solar #interiors #video #value #valueadd #design

top 5 insights when buying a house

Home is where the heart is.

In this short article I discuss my top 5 insights when buying a house!

1. Condition of the house
2. Past improvements
3. Opportunities to add value
4. Location / neighborhood / context
5. Feels. Our intuition is a great source of information!

This is Part 1 of a series of articles relating to residential design.

#residential #architecture #architecturedaily #architecturedesign #residentialdesign #residentialdevelopment #homebuyers #homeconstruction #home #homeimprovement #homeimprovementprojects #locationlocationlocation #homedesign #homedesigner #homedesigninspiration

what constitutes a good contractor?

In this short article I discuss three top traits to look for when selecting a contractor.

Some key characteristics that I find valuable are:

1. Integrity
2. Workmanship
3. Value
4. Team

What has(have) been your experience(s) with contractors? And if you are a contractor, what is your take on my perspective? Do you think that architects should be a part of the contractor selection process?

I'm also inclined to discuss the same traits but for selecting an architect or project manager, but I'll leave that for some other time.

level up

This edition is all about ways to level up your skills while also preventing burn out. 💪
I know how important it is to continuously improve our skills and push ourselves to be better designers, architects, engineers, etc. but burnout can easily creep up on us if we don't take care of ourselves and can prevent up from reaching our professional and even personal goals.

That's why I've put together some tips and tricks that I've found helpful for staying motivated and energized in my work. So if you want to learn some new ways to level up your design game and also prevent burn out, make sure to check out this edition! 👀

#DesignDiaries hashtag#LevelUp hashtag#BurnOutPrevention hashtag#design hashtag#work hashtag#architects hashtag#share hashtag#love hashtag#designers hashtag#engineers

luxury retail design

Plana Architects has been comissioned to design several high-end luxury retail establishments in and around Beverly Hills in the past few years. As a result, we have gained tremendous insight into this very specific niche.

Here are my top five design tips for luxury retail.

1. Create an immersive experience
2. Focus on the use of high-end materials
3. Incorporate innivative tech like AR/Vr
4. Design with attention to detail
5. Create a sense of exclusivity

Stay tuned for more details in my upcoming video on this topic!

#design #architects #experience #tech #like #retail #luxury #video

Below is a rendering of the retail space at Sydenham Clinic Beverly Hills set to open later this year.

custom architectural details

Creating your own custom architectural details can add a unique touch to your home or building, making it stand out and showcasing your personal style. With pre-made options available in the market, it is easy to fall into the trap of conformity and lack originality. By customizing your architectural details, you can bring your own vision to life and create something truly memorable.

By creating your own custom architectural details, you can also ensure that your design feature is tailored to your specific needs and preferences. For example, you can choose the type of wood, the finish, and the size of the bookshelf to match the rest of the space and fit the dimensions of the room.

Another advantage of creating custom architectural details is that you can benefit from the expertise of skilled craftsmen and designers. With the help of a professional, you can bring your vision to life and create a design element that is truly unique and functional.

In conclusion, customizing your architectural details is a crucial aspect of creating a unique and memorable space. By taking the time to design and create your own special features, you can add personality, functionality, and style to your home or building. So, go ahead and let your creativity flow, and bring your vision to life with custom architectural details
that truly express your individuality.

#architecture #technicaldrawing #architecturaldetail #design #custom #custommade #construction #project #building #creativity #designers

sustainable schools

Today our focus is on sustainable school architecture! 🏫🌿 As the world shifts towards renewable energy and reducing our carbon footprint, architects have been designing schools that are not only beautiful but also environmentally conscious. ♻️

From using solar panels to collect energy and rainwater harvesting systems to recycle water, sustainable schools are taking steps towards a more eco-friendly future. 🌍

We believe that educating our youth about living sustainably is crucial in creating a better world for future generations. 🌱 Let's work towards building schools that not only support academic growth but also sustainable development! 🌿

#sustainableschool #sustainablearchitecture #greenbuilding #ecofriendly #greenenergy #solarpower #rainwaterharvesting #reducecarbonfootprint #saveourplanet #futuregeneration #educationforchange #greenfuture #sustainability #architecturedesign #environmentalawareness #zerowaste #buildingdesign #sustainableliving #sustainabledevelopment #thinkgreen #climateaction #ecoschooldesign #buildinggreen #greencommunity #renewableenergy #greenbuildingmaterials #sustainableconstruction #architecture #architects #solar #water #sustainable #work #growth #future #energy #building #school #schools

residential case study pt. 2

Sustainability is not just a buzzword, it's a way of life that starts from the very spaces we inhabit.

Our residential architecture focuses on creating energy-efficient homes that reduce waste and support the natural environment. By blending modern technologies with eco-friendly materials and design principles, we aim to create sustainable homes that enrich the lives of their inhabitants while minimizing their carbon footprint.

Join us in building a greener future, one home at a time.

#sustainablearchitecture #ecofriendlydesign #greenhomes #greenerfuture #sustainability #architecture #design #future #energy #building #environment #sustainable

residential case study pt. 1

Sustainability is more than photovoltaic panels on a roof.

Reusing existing structures and working with site features and topography greatly reduce the environmental impact of this residential project. Escalon residence or ‘house on a hill’ proves that homes can inspire collaboration and creativity, work with the earth and even generate more energy than they consume.

It’s a building that challenges the status quo of environmental design and helps sustainability become accessible to and attainable by all.

Stay tuned for more on this Plana Architects residential case study.

🌿🌿🌿🌎🌍🌏☀️☀️☀️

#design #work #architects #building