The 3rd Street North Office Building and Parking Structure project is a modern development that combines a 384-car parking structure with commercial and retail spaces alongside a three-story professional office building. The parking structure, with retail on the ground floor, and the 36,000-square-foot office building frame a pedestrian-friendly paseo that features shaded seating areas, fountains, and lush landscaping. The paseo also provides an important pedestrian route linking the bus stop on Stuart Street to the Metrolink transit stations.
Designing a functional parking structure adjacent to a professional office building and multiple hospitality buildings required careful consideration of materials and aesthetics. The design ensures the parking structure serves as a supportive backdrop rather than an overwhelming presence, blending harmoniously with its surroundings. Elevated floor elevations of occupiable spaces created opportunities within the paseo for a grand stair, which not only meets FEMA floodplain requirements but also enhances the entrance’s visual appeal. The shallow site necessitated an efficient parking design and circulation layout, optimizing space use.
The parking structure and office building complement each other through a consistent use of materials, with a sophisticated evolution as one moves from west to east across the paseo. This design approach was driven by the owner’s requirement for convenience and future adaptability, ensuring the parking structure could be converted into office or residential space if needed. Both structures contribute to the walkability goals of the overall development and surrounding projects.
The project integrates local culture and history by allowing local artists to decorate the large expanses of walls needed for lateral support, enriching the community’s connection to the space. Additionally, the parking structure includes a large bike-storage facility for commuters, promoting eco-friendly transportation options.
Sustainability is a key feature of the project. Photovoltaic panels are installed on the roofs of both buildings, providing renewable energy. Notably, the top deck of the parking structure includes Tesla charging stations, reflecting a commitment to sustainable transportation.
High-efficiency fixtures, a reclaimed water irrigation system, and the use of recycled materials for select systems further enhance the project's environmental credentials. The parking structure is future-proofed, designed to be adapted for office or residential use in the future, and includes an expansive top-deck PV canopy for solar generation and vehicle shading. The office building features shading elements over glazed openings and deep canopies over the third-floor open deck areas, contributing to energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
The 3rd Street North Office Building and Parking Structure project not only addresses current needs but also anticipates future uses, blending functionality with sustainability and community engagement. This development enhances the area’s infrastructure while promoting eco-friendly practices and celebrating local culture.
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