TREEHOUSE

Arizona State University

Master of Architecture Program

Fall 2023

Treehouse is an innovative coliving complex in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, addressing urban challenges like economic mobility, community disconnection, and sustainability. Designed to combat the housing crisis, it fosters connection among residents through a variety of living arrangements and shared spaces such as kitchens and work areas, encouraging interaction and relationship building. The biophilic design integrates natural elements, with much of the building suspended above ground, creating a park-like oasis for relaxation and engagement with nature. Its exterior resembles trees, featuring green cladding that enhances energy efficiency while providing privacy, offering a refreshing contrast to the concrete landscape of Los Angeles.

  • PARK

    The design of Treehouse centers around Biophilic Design, which is recognized as essential for enhancing the connection between residents and nature. To maximize the ground level, the project incorporates the innovative decision to suspend the building above the ground, transforming the lower area into a vibrant park like experience. This approach rejuvenates the land and facilitates the integration of greenery and local plants, creating a lush environment that encourages biodiversity. The open ground level features seating and gathering spaces designed for both the community and residents, fostering social interaction and collaboration. By elevating the structure, the project creates an inviting oasis that enhances the overall living experience while reconnecting people with the natural world.

  • EXTERIOR

    The exterior of Treehouse is enveloped in metal cladding, featuring a diverse range of green hues at varying densities, creating a striking visual that resembles a trees. This design choice offers an abstract representation of nature, allowing the building to blend seamlessly with its environment in an urban landscape dominated by asphalt and concrete. The intent behind this aesthetic was to move away from traditional urban structures that obstruct nature, instead fostering a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment. The dual-functionality of the metal cladding enhances the building's sustainability by facilitating airflow and allowing breezes to flow into the residential areas and courtyards, while also diffusing natural light to reduce reliance on artificial lighting and cooling systems. Additionally, strategically placed cladding provides privacy for residents, creating a comfortable living space that embraces the essence of nature.

  • COURTYARD

    Treehouse serves as a dynamic coliving complex, offering three distinct living options: single apartments, double apartments, and quad apartments. Each option is designed to promote community and interaction among residents, with shared community spaces that encourage collaboration and social engagement. The architecture fosters a sense of belonging, as residents can connect with one another through communal areas. Courtyards are strategically integrated between the apartment groups, ensuring that even in a densely populated urban environment, residents have access to lush, natural surroundings. This thoughtful design allows for a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living, creating inviting spaces where residents can enjoy nature, gather with friends and pets, and escape the concrete landscape of Los Angeles. By prioritizing these green spaces, Treehouse enhances the living experience, encouraging a vibrant community atmosphere while maintaining a strong connection to the natural world.

  • SITE PLAN

  • SUSTAINABLE & REGENERATIVE DESIGN STRATEGIES

  • ELEVATION DRAWINGS

  • LEVEL 1 PLAN, LEVEL 2 PLAN, LEVEL 3 PLAN, & LEVEL 4 PLAN

  • LEVEL 5 PLAN, LEVEL 6 PLAN, & LEVEL 7 PLAN