One of the central focal points of Montalba Architects' renovation of the iconic mid-century Perpetual Savings and Loan Bank—now known as 9720 Wilshire—in Los Angeles is a sculptural sunken garden found within the building's plaza. Montalba Architects employed a renovation strategy that sees the careful preservation of the building's historic mid-century origin and the careful infusion of modern design elements that refresh the aesthetic.
The sunken garden definitely draws attention with its architectural character, with bronze prongs nodding to the mid-century building's aesthetic. Subtle illumination and the verdant garden found within contribute to the sculpture's visual impact. The sunken garden, occupying the space of what was once a central fountain, extends into the building's basement.
Sculptural Sunken Gardens
Montalba Architects Renovates an Iconic Building in Los Angeles
Trend Themes
1. Sculptural Sunken Gardens - The incorporation of a sculptural sunken garden in renovation projects presents an opportunity for architects to merge historic and modern design elements.
2. Bronze Prongs - The use of bronze prongs in architectural features offers a unique design element that can add aesthetic value to buildings.
3. Verdant Gardens - The creation of verdant gardens within buildings provides an opportunity to bring elements of nature into urban spaces.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The field of architecture can leverage the trend of sculptural sunken gardens to create innovative and visually stunning designs.
2. Interior Design - Interior designers can explore the use of bronze prongs as a distinctive and eye-catching feature in their projects.
3. Landscaping - The landscaping industry can capitalize on the trend of incorporating verdant gardens within buildings to create unique and immersive experiences for clients.