Interstitial, secondary and non-programmed spaces inside and outside of buildings are most interesting when they develop a life of their own. These may be attached or stand alone structures, like parking garages, or the ‘spaces in between, like the laundry rooms and equipment spaces. In an open urban context there is great opportunity for these spaces to become places of gathering and social interaction. At Parking Structure #6 in Santa Monica, for instance, the meandering “red” stair fulfills this unexpected quality by becoming an “exercise’ stair with people running up and down the flights, as well as a place to rest and to enjoy the view over the Santa Monica Bay.  Deliberate or not, often those spaces become the true value of a building or urban environment. 

Recognizing excellence in design, the AIA|LA Design Awards and Next LA Awards are prestigious honors for Los Angeles-based architects and practices that qualify for AIA|LA membership. The organization is one of the top 3 largest American Institute of Architects chapter in the United States. Submissions are reviewed by a select group of architects, fellows, critics, professors and theorists, who form a jury that represents the best in the design field. As a result Christof Jantzen, principle of Studio Jantzen, received a merit award for the Rajeunir Black Caviar cosmetic retail store in Palm Desert California for Dermalectives Skin Care Products Company, among other outstanding architects of the Los Angeles area.