SCI-Arc

A rendering for "Luminous Networks," on view at Automat in Chinatown.

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — Just off the heels of the lattice and light fixture installation that was known as the Coachella Party Pavilion, SCI-Arc continues to explore urban space with a student show at the Arts District campus and a group project that profiles urban sustainability in Chinatown.

Tomorrow, Friday, April 24, SCI-Arc will be holding an open house from 7 to 9pm to display selected student work in the Third Annual All School Exhibition. The undergraduate thesis review showcases student design studio work, including visual studies and applied studies programs installations throughout the campus. It will run at SCI-Arc (960 E. 3rd) until May 17, 2009; admission is free.

On Saturday, April 25, SCI-Arc's Luminous Networks at Automat opens in Chinatown. This pilot program comes from the minds from SCI-Arc students, and will present design solutions for "a sustainable public space" on Chinatown's Chung King Road. The project began in January 2009 under the eye of SCI-Arc professor and architect Alexis Rochas, who led a Sustainable Strategies seminar.

By working with the Chung King Plaza Business Association, the exhibit explores theories in renewable energy, water efficiency and accessibility; each principle working within the cultural symbolism of a Chinese Dragon. More from the press release:

SCI-Arc’s proposal weaves together West Plaza Court, Chung King Road North and Chung King Road South into one cohesive and continuous space. The proposed site would include: a Tea House, a learning space formed by tiered seating, shaded areas for social interaction, a green landscaping mat, and a Wishing Well fountain. A lighting system would provide enhanced security and accent diverse gathering areas. Renewable energy would be collected through photovoltaic panels. A water efficient landscaping mat would provide natural ground cover using water collected from the existing building roof drains.

"LUMINOUS NETWORKS on view at Automat" opening reception is Saturday, April 25, from 6 to 9pm. It runs until May 9. Automat is located at 936 Chung King Road.