AVA Little Tokyo / AvalonBay Communities, Inc.
AVA Little Tokyo / AvalonBay Communities, Inc.

2015 MFE Awards: AVA Little Tokyo

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Mid-Rise Podium or Wrap, Merit Winner

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For AvalonBay’s AVA brand, which boasts eclectic, urban-inspired design and deluxe amenities, a site in the heart of L.A.’s growing Little Tokyo neighborhood was a natural fit. Just blocks from two of the city’s Metro lines and within easy access of major cultural and entertainment districts, this trendy area has much to offer residents, so any living space in the neighborhood must follow suit.

 AvalonBay and Thomas Cox Architects drew inspiration from Japanese pop culture to create a vibrant community tailored to the city’s young professionals. The project team used contemporary materials on the façades and mixed bright pops of color and metallics into the design palette, giving the buildings a bold, modern appeal.

 In addition to 280 apartment units, the paired buildings of AVA Little Tokyo offer ground-floor retail and restaurant space. Walkability was a key component of the project: Wide public promenades are woven throughout the community to connect with Little Tokyo’s existing residents, whose input was sought throughout the planning process in order to make sure the AVA development complemented the neighborhood.

 Though residents have the best of L.A. at their fingertips, they might never feel the need to leave. The community is stacked with the latest and greatest amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, pool and spa, and dog walk and washing station. Residents can also relax in the indoor “chill lounge,” equipped with game tables and a fireplace; roll up their sleeves at a DIY creative work space; gather around the fire pits in the outdoor courtyards; or socialize on the sixth-floor deck, which features a bar and movie wall alongside panoramic views of the city skyline.

 Luxury living continues in each apartment, thanks to features like quartz countertops, walk-in closets, Energy Star appliances, private balconies, and in-unit washers and dryers. In select units, unique touches such as gear walls, flexible sliding doors, and chalkboard walls add functionality and whimsy.