Weingart Center

Designed: 2001 Built: 2001 Location: Downtown Los Angeles, California

The original single-floor URM warhouse previously served as a doll factory in downtown Los Angeles. Located by the citie's skid row, and funded by a philanthropic organization, the Weingart Center was rehabilitated into an adult learning center, where free education and training help people in need get off the streets and join the market force.

The building was re-designed to include classrooms, conference rooms, offices and workshops. Some of the brick walls were left exposed, while the floors were entirely retreated with resin. The black-painted ceiling left most MEP units exposed, while in certain spaces, organically cut wood sheets were used to cover certain ceiling parts and allow proper lighting installation.

The building facade was re-plastered and non-fastidiously painted grey with the intention to remain unintimidating and welcoming.