History Retold
Situated in LA, adjacent to Little Tokyo, this project tells the history of this site through its architecture. While standing today remain only 3 blocks of Little Tokyo, at its height, the Japanese American community thrived and benefit both the Japanese Americans as well as the broader LA economy. During WWII, these citizens were forced into internment camps and many never returned, resulting in the now diminishing Little Tokyo. This project aims to tell this story. The architecture synthesizes two programs through contrasting languages. The large concrete forms hold warehouses and offices for non profit organization Shelter Partnership. Conversely, the secondary language reflects that of a Japanese engawa, which houses flexible program that educates the community on the story of Japanese Americans.
Professor Brad Silling
Syracuse University School of Architecture