concrete masonry association of california and nevada c m ...€¦ · architect: austin veum...

Winners of the2002 CMACNConcrete MasonryDesign Awards

Included are the Jury Commentsdelivered by Jury Chairman:Robin M. Ellerthorpe, FAIA

Co-sponsored by:AIA California Council

Presented by:Air Vol Block, Inc.Angelus Block Company, Inc.Basalite Concrete ProductsBlockliteCalstone Company, Inc.Desert Block Company, Inc.McNear Brick and BlockORCO Block CompanyR C P Block and Brick, Inc.Valley Block Company

California Cement Promotion Council

Visit our web site:www.cmacn.org

Winners of the2002 CMACNConcrete MasonryDesign Awards

Included are the Jury Commentsdelivered by Jury Chairman:Robin M. Ellerthorpe, FAIA

Co-sponsored by:AIA California Council

Presented by:Air Vol Block, Inc.Angelus Block Company, Inc.Basalite Concrete ProductsBlockliteCalstone Company, Inc.Desert Block Company, Inc.McNear Brick and BlockORCO Block CompanyR C P Block and Brick, Inc.Valley Block Company

California Cement Promotion Council

Visit our web site:www.cmacn.org

Profiles in ArchitectureC o n c r e t e M a s o n r y A s s o c i a t i o n o f C a l i f o r n i a a n d N e v a d a

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C o s p o n s o r e d b y C M A C N a n d A I A C a l i f o r n i a C o u n c i l

Profiles in Architecture

CONGREGATION BETH ISRAELSAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—This is a complex project with achallenging site – like a small city. The jury foundthis project incredibly elegant and well detailed.Viewed close up and then from a distance, onecan see the variety of dimension and detail thatset it apart. The subtle symbolism andornamentation are exquisite. Overall a seamlessproject, well deserving of the Grand Award.

The challenge was to design a new home forCongregation Beth Israel to serve both currentand future needs, while providing a link to thepast. This third home for the region’s oldest andlargest Jewish congregation moves the communityfrom its 1926 facility with its domed Sanctuaryand beautiful stained glass, to a new 65,000-square-foot facility that includes a pre-school, dayschool and religious school, administrative offices,chapel, social hall and a Sanctuary accommodating500 worshippers. Exterior spaces includeterraces, courtyards and playfields.

This relatively small 3.6-acre sloping site withmature coral trees on the northern end providedboth challenges and opportunities during thedesign process. Early planning of the facilitysought to minimize the costs associated with theextensive site work and the required retainingwalls. The completed facility, however, with itsmultiple levels, courtyards for gathering and tallwalls, provides the Congregation with a sense ofcommunity. Pedestrian movement is fromsecular space, through courtyards, entry kiosk andvestibules to the sacred space of the Sanctuary.

Inspired by the City of Jerusalem, the Architectsshaped building forms, selected materials andcreated spaces that provide a connection to the

“Old City.” Domes over the Sanctuary,chapel and school science room evoke thesense of early synagogues. Concretemasonry block capped with precastconcrete was selected to reinforceCongregants’ perceptions of permanence.The tall masonry facades move seamlesslyfrom the exterior to the interior of thebuildings. The striped patterning of themasonry is reminiscent of the patterns ofthe traditional “talit” or prayer shawl.

The concrete masonry includes a“sourdough” color split-face block and acustom white cement “bead-blasted”block. Grout joints are colored to matchthe adjacent block. Joints are struckdeeply in a large pattern to provide thereference to larger elements.

ARCHITECT:

Austin Veum Robbins Parshalle600 West Broadway, Suite 200San Diego, CA 92101

Douglas H. Austin, FAIAPrincipal

Randy S. Robbins, AIAPrincipal

Michael Engel, AIAProject Architect

OWNER:

Congregation Beth Israel



OVERALL RESIDENCEMONTECITO, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—Although masonry is notstrongly visible on the project, the entire structurerelies on it. This residence is beautiful, simpleand well carried out.

Concrete masonry is an integral design compo-nent in the successful architectural designsolution for the Overall Residence, a premiumquality custom residence located in Montecito,California. The inherent strength, non-combusti-bility and efficiency qualities of concretemasonry block construction make it well suitedfor the project’s challenging structural and fireprotection requirements.

The residence design is clad inside and out withimported Italian limestone panels. The use ofconcrete masonry block at strategic areasprovides an excellent structural framework thatintegrates well with the stone cladding to providea very efficient, cost effective and watertightsystem of installation.

Concrete masonry block provides the high levelof structural strength required for the project’slarge-scale limestone clad walls and massivechimney elements. Tall wall heights and thesubstantial weight of stone cladding resulted invery challenging structural design requirements.Concrete masonry block meets these demandingrequirements providing the necessary structuralstrength and lateral support.

Construction with concrete masonry blockprovided the design capabilities and flexibilitynecessary to create the expansive openings andunique detailing of the custom Rumford-stylefireplaces. The fireplaces are critical elements ofthe residence aesthetic design and are the mainfocal elements of the living room, family roomand study. Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis

Architects worked closely with the generalcontractor and mason to achieve customfireplace designs that are dramatic designelements, but just as importantly, functionwell for the client’s everyday use.

Fire safety is a paramount concern for ourclient. The project is situated on a steep,remote hillside site that is prone to significantseasonal forest fire danger. The residence alsohas three large-scale wood burning fireplaces.The non-combustibility of concrete masonryblock construction makes it a natural choiceto provide fire protection for the fireplaces,columns, and selected exterior walls ofthe structure.

Concrete masonry block constructionfacilitated Neumann, Mendro AndrulaitisArchitects vision for a unique, dynamic,contemporary residence design solutionappropriate for a high fire danger.

ARCHITECT:

Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects888 Linden AvenueCarpinteria, CA 93013

Andy NeumannPartner

Dave MendroPartner

Mary AndrulaitisPartner

OWNER:

Jack and Sheri Overall



BIBLIOTECA LATINOAMERICANA &WASHINGTON UNITED YOUTH CENTERSAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA

This project responds well to the Latin cultureand heritage and is an excellent example of therange of uses available with concrete masonry.We loved the protective and complex nature ofthe “La Entrada” wall and were also taken byhow engaging and impressive the project is whenlit at night.

Located along the historic stagecoach routeleading into San Jose, the BibliotecaLatinoamericana and Washington United YouthCenter anchors a redevelopment parcelsurrounded by commercial, educational andresidential uses one mile south of downtown.

The 15,000 square foot library plays a centralrole in both local and regional community life byhousing one of the state’s largest collections ofLatin American literature. “La Entrada,” aprimary architectural element of the project, is aconcrete masonry block and clay brick abstracttapestry that narrates the history of Anglo andLatin American relations. A traditionalgeometric motif taken from historic Latinoculture serpentines across the wall and is engagedby a free form abstract mass of masonryinfluenced by abstract modern paintings. Theweave of the two symbolizes historical precedentand modernism.

The 17,000 square foot youth center also servesa central role in community life. It houses agymnasium, boxing/weightlifting, multi-purposeroom, game room, staff offices, classroom andparent/teen counseling rooms. It is constructed

primarily of expressed concrete masonry blockin complementary colors and similar texturesto the library.

Concrete masonry block was always the mainbuilding material consideration for a project thathad budget constraints and requirement forarchitecture that demanded a sense of permanencyand strength. The unique patterning of themasonry utilizes three different colors andsmooth, striated, fluted and split-face textureserves to make the community proud of thebuildings and has discouraged graffiti vandalism dueto that community pride.

ARCHITECT:

Steven Ehrlich Architects10865 Washington Blvd.Culver City, CA 90232

Steven EhrlichDesign Architect

Garcia Teague Architecture + Interiors, Inc.1998 The Alameda, Suite1San Jose, CA 95126

Gilbert M. Garcia, AIAExecutive Architect/Architect of Record

Wendy Teague, ASID, CIDInterior Design Principal

OWNERS:City of San Jose



STANFORD SHOPPING CENTER EXPANSIONRETAIL PAVILION: WILKES BASHFORD STOREPALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—Every detail of this project was welldone and pulled together. The Jury was impressed withhow the architect used concrete masonry on detailssuch as the eaves – something that isn’t commonlydone. We also liked how the masses of stone are tiedtogether by materials that don’t hide the masonry,but rather add to its appeal.

The context of this project was to design a premiummen’s and women’s clothier to be housed in a newfreestanding 10,000 square foot pavilion at theStanford Shopping Center in Palo, Alto California.

The design requirements of this project were toconstruct a highly visible building with four publicfacades and four important corners. This was to beaccomplished using materials that convey elegance andhigh quality with enduring appearance that fit withinthe context of Stanford, the appearance of neighboringretail and the nearby University, all on a tight budgetthat called for design flexibility and low maintenance.

Concrete masonry units were selected as the primarybuilding material for the retail pavilion, becauseaesthetic characteristics and technical flexibilityresolve the primary design challenges. The building’sdesign demonstrates an elegant expression of concretemasonry, a material more commonly used forefficiency and economy. Special modules of concretemasonry block 4-inches by 16-inches were customcolored, recalling the buff colored stone and masonryused to build the Stanford campus. The horizontalmortar joints between blocks are raked, while thevertical joints are struck flush to accentuate the

horizontality of the single story building andprovide a textured, articulated finish.

Bearing concrete masonry is used both as astructural system and exterior finish, demon-strating concrete masonry block’s versatility as aconstruction and finish choice and its capabilityto deliver cost efficiency to the client. Theglazed aluminum storefronts read as light andtransparent in contrast to the solidity of thefaçade’s concrete masonry bearing wall.Aluminum framed fabric awnings at the streetelevations provide shade and accentuate theretail windows. In contrast with the earth-toneof the concrete masonry block, concretecolumns with steel canopies create arcades atnorth and south facades to announce the store’sentries. Rich natural landscaping provides thefinishing elegant touches that complement thebuilding’s concrete masonry block and glassdesign expression.

ARCHITECT:

ELS Architecture and Urban Design2040 Addison StreetBerkeley, CA 94704

Geno Yun, AIAPrincipal

OWNER:

Stanford Management Company



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PAN PACIFIC PARK RECREATION CENTERLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—The Jury loved the playfulnessof the center and how it “Exploited the use ofthe materials.” The curving walls are veryappealing and the horizontal accent striping isvery well done. The glass block used to emitnatural light is especially appealing at night.

This recreation center occupies the site of theformer Pan Pacific Auditorium that burneddown in the late 1980’s, which architecturallyand culturally represented a significant part ofLos Angeles history. The City of Los AngelesDepartment of Recreation and Parks requiredthat the new recreation center be designed inthe spirit of the former Pan Pacific Auditorium.

Other design considerations for this project,placed on it by the City of Los AngelesRecreation and Parks Department, other CityDepartments and adjacent homeowners, wereprogrammatic, materials, and a tight budget. Asthis project fronts a busy retail street it wasimportant that this facility extend the park tothe street and the street to the park, tyingthe two together.

To address these considerations, the mass of thebuilding was broken down to avoid the typical“big box gym” in the park. The building and thelandscaping were woven together. A towerfeature, an abstraction of one of the originalfour ticket booth towers from the Pan PacificAuditorium, was placed at the entrance of thecenter to signify it as the main entrance tothe building.

The major building material for thisstructure is concrete masonry. All theexterior walls and the majority of theinterior walls consist of split-face blockand precision block with a single score.The serpentine and curving walls, whichare used to break down the mass of thebuilding and tie the building into the park,consist of all straight 8-inch by 8-inchblock cut on the radius. Glass windowswere prohibited from use do to securityconcerns; so glass block was used to emitnatural light and was incorporated intoconcrete masonry block compositions.Internally, the concrete masonry blockwas used with reinforced concrete tocreate cantilever projections and flatarches in the lobby. Concrete masonryblock used in conjunction with steel beamswas used to create some of the majoropenings and the large curving light wellabove the information area.

ARCHITECT:

Jeffrey M. Kalban and Associates10780 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 120Los Angeles, CA 90025

Jeffrey M. KalbanDesign Principal

Alain SabbaghProject Architect

OWNER:

City of Los Angeles, Department ofRecreation and Parks



THE MONASTERY OF THE THEOTOKOS,THE LIFE GIVING SPRINGDUNLAP, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—The Jury was enamored by thecomplexity of the masonry units and how theywere used to form history with modern materials.They also liked how the project was sited on amountaintop, creating a sense of strengthand stability.

The project challenge was to design a convent inthe ancient tradition of the Holy OrthodoxChurch, rooted in the 6th century, on a 40-acreportion of a 400-acre secluded hillside site abovean existing Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap,California. This parcel is adjacent to King’sCanyon National Park in the Sequoias. The siteselection was based upon its seclusion, beauty,proximity and remoteness. An inspirational,twelve-minute walk that takes you progressivelyupwards to a place of repose and dignity, with acommanding view of the valley and mountains,reminiscent of monastery sites in Greece.

The Convent’s design is rooted in the traditionsand heritage of the monasteries such as St.Katherine’s at Mt. Sinai and Mt. Athos. Phase 1includes the new main church or “Katholikon,”which is a dome cruciform church-walled city,creating a protective, stable and permanentsacred space within. As one approaches theconvent, its strength and sense of stability isoverwhelming as it sits majestically on themountaintop. In future phases, the gateway andbell tower will lead one to the world within. Thisproject is zoned into three general areas within,such as the public area, the nun’s living quartersand work area or “Kelia” and the “Katholikon”or main church, which is the focal and pivotalpoint of the complex.

The substantial use of concrete masonrythroughout the project was utilized in aunique way, keying it with the 6th centuryByzantine masonry techniques. This wasachieved by utilizing alternating rusticstone courses (split-face block) withsmooth “tie” masonry courses (brick) andthe creation of a new concrete masonryrusticated base shape that connects it toancient times. The main church as the“crowning glory” of the monastery with itsmasonry textures, supports a series ofminor and major domes, clad in copper,celebrating the heaven, the eternity, andGod Almighty.

ARCHITECT:

EKONA Architecture + Planning121 Second Street, Suite 333San Francisco, CA 94105

Christ J. Kamages, AIADesign Principal

John Hunter, AIAProject Manager

OWNER:

The Greek Orthodox Metropolisof San Francisco

His EminenceMetropolitan Anthony



UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELESKINROSS STAGING BUILDINGLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—The Jury felt the off-set, split-face of the concrete masonry units showedexemplary craftsmanship and innovation. Weliked how color was used to clearly show thebuilding’s entry and throughout the interior asan organizing element. Overall, the sleek steeland glass against the rough concrete masonrymade this project “sing.”

The new Kinross Staging Building was conceivedas a permanent building for displaced depart-ments on the University of California LosAngeles campus, while the departments’ originalfacilities undergo renovations and upgrades. Byresponding to tight budget and schedule demandswith ingenuity and creativity, Steven EhrlichArchitects provided a permanent campusstructure consisting of 75,000 square feet offlexible classroom/lab/office space.

Desirable for its low cost, durability and tectonicexpression, all gravity-resisting elements arecomprised of exposed steel, whereas the shearresisting elements were built using fully groutedconcrete masonry walls. This allowed for quickerection of the frame, but a variable pace forthe installation of the concrete masonry. To addvisual interest for the large masonry expenses,Steven Ehrlich Architects worked directly withthe CMACN concrete masonry block manufac-turer to develop a unique process for creating anoffset split face unit. The splitting blade wasmoved by a quarter of an inch to yield a

half-inch overall offset, and units wereerected in a random pattern. Thecollaborative process provided a productwith enhanced texture and visual appeal,but at no extra cost for the manufacturer.Steel columns and beams were paintedusing a warm charcoal color that con-trasted with exposed metal decks paintedin light colors. Other portions of theexterior are clad with a corrugated,insulated and painted steel panel.Guardrails and balustrades are constructedof a common painted steel accented withbrushed stainless steel handrails on twoexterior stories that animate the campuswith people in motion.

ARCHITECT:

Steven Ehrlich Architects10865 Washington Blvd.Culver City, CA 90232

Steven Ehrlich, FAIAPrincipal

OWNER:

University of California, Los Angeles



EXTENDED DAY CARE CENTERUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINEIRVINE, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—The texture and form of theproject attracted the Jury’s attention. It responds tothe site extremely well and is well articulated basedon the design. The curved wall meets the localcommunity and protects the children from it.

The design of the Extended Day Care Center,creates a playful structure with simple elements:

••••• a sweeping curved precision concrete masonryblock wall with 4-inch split-faced accentedbands and clerestory windows

••••• three platonic cube-like precisionconcrete block rooms scattered as thoughtossed in place

••••• a simple metal shed roof floating over theconcrete masonry block elements.

As a result of the juxtaposed elements, unexpectedspaces are created making an environment ofdiscovery for the children, staff and passersby. Theuse of concrete block was critical to the designintent, creating quality, security durability andcharacter. This facility replaces the formerclassroom trailer and provides a safe and perma-nent presence for the UCI childcare program

The site is situated on a low berm along a curvinguniversity campus road. It is adjacent to campushousing, Residential Services Administration andanother day care facility. The site is developed toaccommodate safe and easy parking and drop-offfrom the street, as well as, a play yard nestled in a

small hill area away from the street. Due to thesite’s mild slope, there is a concrete masonryblock retaining wall along the back of the yard,which provides for a large outdoor play area andbench-type seating.

The facility accommodates after school child carefor 45 children between the ages of five andtwelve in two classrooms that are convertible intoone. Administration, computer and library, anopen kitchen for class use and support areincluded. An essential part of the buildingprogram was to create a “light” environment thatenhances the experience of after school day carefor everyone using the building: children andadults alike. The expansive space and windowwalls do this.

ARCHITECT:

R. L. Binder, FAIA Architecture & Planning7726 81st StreetPlaya del Rey, CA 90293

Rebecca L. Binder, FAIAPrincipal in Charge

Kim Walsh, AIAPrincipal/Project Architect

OWNER:

Regents of theUniversity of California, Irvine



STEPPING STONE CENTRALRESIDENTIAL RECOVERY FACILITYSAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—The Jury was impressed withthe overall layout of this project. The massing ofthe buildings shows the various functions of theprogram well and creates a courtyard sanctuarywith areas for planting. The building alsoprotects its inhabitants from the communityand vice versa.

Stepping Stone’s 31-bed residential recoveryprogram aims to create, sustain and extend life-enhancing alcohol and drug recovery andprevention services primarily to gays and lesbiansin San Diego County. By offering a secure andcaring environment, the center maintains anatmosphere of peer interaction and involvement,creating a setting where recovering peoplehelp other recovering people. Residents havethe opportunity to live, attend support groupmeetings and interrelate socially withinthe facility.

A workshop involving staff, alumni and residentsof the existing inadequate and deterioratingfacility, generated a framework for the designsolution. These goals were addressed by creating acentral courtyard to provide organization, focusand comfort, two serenity gardens, offeringopportunities for retreat and healing throughscale and choice of plant materials, a central stairshaped as a “pump”, providing the setting for“shows” and playfully addressing the residents. Inaddition, there are six separate buildings ofvarying materials, colors and textures, articulated

wood decks connecting buildings with a residen-tial scale and detail and parking accessed from analley and underneath the building.

In the design of this facility, concrete masonryblock was selected to add hierarchy and scale.Split-faced concrete masonry block is offset withbands of precision concrete masonry block onthe exterior of the stair tower and commonsbuilding. Split-face concrete masonry createsdepth and shadow, while the precision concretemasonry bands reduce the scale. The block isexposed on the interior of these spaces as well,with a single score precision face concretemasonry block that reads as 8x8 tile and helpscreate a residential scale and feeling. In addition,concrete masonry block was used for site andretaining walls, because of its durability, ease ofconstruction, scale and texture.

ARCHITECT:

Zagrodnik + Thomas Architects, LLP2927 Meade AvenueSan Diego, CA 92116

Jean Zagrodnik, AIAPrincipal

OWNER:

Stepping Stone of San Diego, Inc.



TEHIYAH DAY SCHOOLEL CERRITO, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—The jury loves the criticalform elements in this project; especially howthe concrete masonry units support the gymand allow penetration of garage doors. Wealso felt the split face of smooth and glassblock was beautifully done.

This project is for a small private Jewish Kthrough 8 school in the San Francisco Bayarea. The new structure consists of a full sizedgymnasium including bleachers, kitchen andsupport spaces, as well as Jewish Studies andMusic classrooms. In addition to physicaleducation and sporting events, the gym willalso be used for all school assemblies andperformances. Supplemental lighting, audio-visual and portable stage equipment wasdesigned into the space.

The building is an addition to an existingcampus of classrooms and administrativespaces in the midst of a residential neighbor-hood. It is sited against a steep hillside withhomes overlooking the site. The primarydesign factor was to place the least “imposing”building possible.

The design team selected concrete masonry asthe primary building material for the largevolume of the gym. Appearance and durability

from both outside and inside were majorconsiderations in this selection. Split-faced and smooth-texture horizontal bandswere utilized to enhance the design. Largeglass “garage doors” were inserted to bringmaximum natural light into the gym aswell as allow for simultaneous indoor-outdoor use.

ARCHITECT OF RECORD:

Tom Eliot Fisch228 Grant Avenue, 6th FloorSan Francisco, CA 94108

Douglas TomPrincipal

DESIGN ARCHITECT:

SMWM989 Market Street, 3rd floorSan Francisco, CA 94103

Bill BondyProject Architect

OWNERS:

Tehiyah Day School



LAUSD KENNEDY SENIORHIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUMGRANADA HILLS, CALIFORNIA

Jury Comments—The Jury was impressed with theinterior of this project. We noted the warm invitingcolors of the concrete masonry units and howglass blocked is used to let light in, yet still keepthe environment secure for students. Many highschools today are struggling with form and howto deal with large expanses. We felt this projectwas very successful in breaking down scale.

This new 44,000 square foot senior high schoolgymnasium is designed to be an integral part of anexisting 40-acre Los Angeles Unified SchoolDistrict campus. The design employs the samecolor concrete block as existing campus buildings.Steel sunscreens are used to recall existing pre-cast campus cornices. The articulated masses ofthe two gymnasiums and locker room facilitiesbecome legible design features. Durable, maintain-able burnished block accentuated with the varieduse of split-faced, burnished and recessed bands ofcontrasting colored block and clear glass blockpatterns afford an animated facade whilemaintaining tight budget constraints.

The interior volume is expressed in the exteriorform and the operative image of the pairedvaulted roofs places the building as the gym,affords the wanted functional volume and assistsin internal acoustics. The vault roof overhangsand steel elements provide functional sun-screening, as well as, legibility for the entry. Theextended concrete masonry bock streetscape wall

with its “window” punches and benches definesand secures the forecourt and the ticket booth.The building is sited on the street edge of thecampus to allow the existing earthquake damagedgym to remain in use during construction of thenew gym, as well as, to correct the siting of theoriginal gym and enhance campus security. Withthe demolition of the original gym, the entirecampus is now visible and secure withouthidden yard areas.

ARCHITECT:

R. L. Binder, FAIA Architecture & Planning7726 81st StreetPlaya del Rey, CA 90293

Rebecca L. Binder, FAIAPrincipal in Charge

Kim Walsh, AIAPrincipal/Project Architect

OWNER:

Los Angeles Unified School District





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