Dramatic Views of LA Seen from the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is a hidden gem for Culver City residences, culminating in some breathtaking views of the LA Basin. The incredible 57-acre urban state park includes a new 10,000 square foot visitor center, observation deck, a variety of viewing areas, hiking trails, picnic areas, and restored natural landscape. Designed by Safdie Rabines Architects, the crescent shaped visitor center recently received honors from the LABC Architecture Awards, and has been described as being designed in accordance with the Hippocratic Oath for sustainable design, by doing little harm to the surrounding landscape.

Due to the building’s budget constraints, the California State Parks made no effort to pursue LEED certification, however the implementation of sustainable concepts were incorporated throughout the design development and construction of the project, keeping in line with the firm’s philosophy. For example, operable windows throughout the project provide natural cross-ventilation while ample consideration was taken into using sunlight to illuminate interior spaces during the day. Additional consideration was taken into any site construction including the implementation of porous paving materials throughout, on the parking lot and pathway trails to ensure natural storm water infiltration into the site.

+ Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
+ Safdie Rabines Architects

Lead Image © Undine Pröhl