Vero, located at the entry of downtown Los Angeles, stands as a mid-rise condominium complex initially constructed in 2006. The Yeh-Yeh-Yeh architects selected in an invited competition, were entrusted with the task of reimagining this condominium's identity by breathing new life into both its exterior and interior common spaces.
The existing complex consists of three massing units arranged in an F-shaped configuration, each featuring distinctive zoning colors adorning the carpeting and paint. Notably, the main building facing Wilshire Boulevard had a muted dark grey and black exterior.
Our design embarks with an assessment of the urban context. Los Angeles, celebrated for its vibrant multiculturalism and diversity, serves as the backdrop, rooted in a profound sense of unity and harmony. Our mission is to introduce a coherent and relevant design framework that genuinely elevates the stature of VERO Condominium. The core concept is unity, intimacy, refinement, enduring appeal, simplicity, and functionality.
Our vision involves creating a bold distinction between the dwelling units and the ground-level retail stores. The mass of dwelling units seemingly floats above the ground-level retail floor. To achieve this, vibrant colors will be thoughtfully applied to the exterior facade, forging a contrast that sets the building apart within its pedestrian level. The rectangular colored shapes will merge with the background of downtown Los Angeles skyscrapers, establishing both harmony and distinctiveness within the cityscape.
We extend the linear stripe concept to the interior, seamlessly applying it to the common corridor spaces and elevator halls. By unifying the canopy and ceiling in a single color, we infuse these spaces with an airy and luminous quality. Painted walls serve as anchors at key hubs, such as elevator halls and pathway corners. As the design evolved, we also reimagined the building's symbols and icons to create a more cohesive visual identity. The double-sided corridors can often be dimly lit, posing a challenge due to the scale of 197 dwelling units. To address this, we carefully repositioned canopy lighting and upgraded the existing unit wiring, illuminating the unit foyers more effectively.
A surge in large-scale condominium development in Los Angeles, especially within the downtown area, transpired 15-20 years ago. The current market necessitates a rejuvenation to maintain relevance. We firmly believe that redefining the condominium concept presents an excellent opportunity to foster a sense of community and simultaneously enhance the building's market value.
