Renaissance La Jolla Masterplan
La Jolla, CAClient:
McKellar Development / Roger Joseph Development
Site Area:
5 Acres
Commercial:
50,000 sf
This 50,000 sf neighborhood commercial center is situated on five acres of a 115-acre masterplanned community for which a northern Italian village theme had been selected to establish an overall community identity. With its lively outdoor cafes, this center seeks to recreate the vital sense of community which found its expression in the village marketplace and public square of Renaissance Italy.
Design guidelines call for architectural images composed of unifying elements such as tile roofs, pale washed walls, simple and uncluttered detailing and arches and columns, as well as people-oriented spaces and open space linkages.
In fact, the center can be reached by foot from the surrounding community across the picturesque pedestrian bridge, one of the focal elements of the design. Situated in a large piazza, the landmark 90’-high clock tower identifies the development, and arcades contribute significantly to the elaboration of the community theme.
A major design objective for this development was to widen pedestrian traffic areas, creating a number of pleasant outdoor seating areas. Upgraded finishes such as stamped concrete for the walkways and colorful outdoor umbrellas enhance the vibrant atmosphere of the center.
