Description:

The Pico Canyon Housing project is on an 18-acre hillside in Valencia (northern Los Angeles County). The program called for the design of 75 affordable units as well as a recreational facility. The units themselves would range in size from 1,400 to 2,000 sq. ft. (3 and 4 bedrooms respectively), with separate entrances, individual garages, views, and private backyards.

The goal was to create a community of homes affordable to young working families. The low construction cost per unit did not mean the homes were of low quality. Savings in normal grading costs, by terracing the site into three tiers (instead of creating one large pad), were used to maximize the quality of each unit. The tiers, linked by richly landscaped walkways, lead to a community center.

Although the units are lined up in a simple row house fashion, each unit is clearly identifiable. Because of its unique “L”-shaped plan, a shared landscaped entry court is formed, allowing light and air to enter from 3 sides of each unit. Stairs leading up from the street further enhance the privacy of each entrance. A varying palette of colors, combined with vaulted or gabled roofs, expresses the major volumes of each home while enforcing each unit’s individuality.

This solution provides personal homeowner identity, instilled with a sense of security and pride of ownership. We have been able to generate the full range of private and public spaces that further creates a community atmosphere.

1992