Morales Residence
Client
Expertise
Location
Status
Completion Year
Morales Residence
Full Architectural Design, Permit Process, City Approvals, Structural Engineering, Interiors, Exteriors
Los Angeles, California
Under Construction
2025
Spanish Style Elegance
Morales Residence represents our team’s achievement—a project brought to life over the course of eighteen months and situated within a designated Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ) in Los Angeles. Due to the area’s stringent preservation requirements, the site had remained undeveloped for more than three decades. Embracing the challenge, our team designed a Spanish-style single-family residence that successfully obtained all necessary approvals and has now entered the construction phase.
Our approach was rooted in comprehensive research and contextual sensitivity. We conducted an in-depth study of traditional Spanish architectural elements while analyzing the neighborhood’s historic character. To ensure seamless integration with the surrounding streetscape, we referenced the massing and architectural language of adjacent homes. Over the course of the project, we participated in four key meetings with the HPOZ board, culminating in full approval during the final review.​
Our approach was rooted in comprehensive research and contextual sensitivity. We conducted an in-depth study of traditional Spanish architectural elements while analyzing the neighborhood’s historic character. To ensure seamless integration with the surrounding streetscape, we referenced the massing and architectural language of adjacent homes. Over the course of the project, we participated in four key meetings with the HPOZ board, culminating in full approval during the final review.
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Every aspect of the design adheres to HPOZ guidelines and reflects the timeless qualities of Spanish architecture. Signature elements—such as arched openings, a welcoming front porch, and sculpted wing walls—were incorporated to both honor the neighborhood’s heritage and enhance the home’s visual presence. Window and door configurations, roof forms, and material selections were carefully curated to satisfy preservation standards while elevating the overall design.
Sustainability played a central role in the design process. To support Low Impact Development (LID) strategies, we integrated two large stormwater retention vessels at the front of the property, enabling gradual release of rainwater and reducing environmental runoff. Traditional concrete paving was replaced with permeable pavers to further promote onsite water infiltration. These environmentally responsible choices not only align with contemporary sustainability practices but also enhance comfort and livability for the future residents.
The Morales Residence was thoughtfully planned to accommodate modern living and social gatherings. The layout features two fully independent kitchens, a generous living room and family room, and a versatile outdoor entertainment space. This flexible program responds to the client’s lifestyle needs while respecting the architectural constraints of the historic district.
Site planning required equally careful consideration. The placement of the courtyard, pool, and garage had to meet functional requirements, preserve the potential for future conversion of the garage into an ADU, and remain compliant with HPOZ aesthetic and regulatory standards. Through meticulous coordination, we achieved a site layout that satisfies all three goals in a cohesive and elegant manner.