LOS ANGELES – KTGY Architecture + Planning has designed The Theo, a new 105-unit multifamily building rising at 289 N. El Molino Avenue in Pasadena, California. KTGY is working with developer Summerhill Apartment Communities, as well as Pasadena Heritage and City of Pasadena Design Commission, on a structure that addresses its historic surroundings.
Walkable to Old Pasadena, the building is adjacent to the Theodore Parker Lukens House. Built in 1886-87, the Victorian home is among the oldest in Pasadena. The Theo apartment building is named after this home’s first owner, who was a prominent conservationist and real estate investor. Also adjacent to the project is a small park and 120-year-old cedar tree.
These natural and historic components figure into KTGY’s design. The six stories of apartments are set amongst courtyards and terraces with views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Lukens House.
“Rather than compete with the ornate features of this classic residence, The Theo offers a clean, simple, Modernist counterpart with outdoor spaces that overlook and embrace the Lukens House,” says KTGY Executive Director, Design, Keith McCloskey, LEED AP.
These spaces include an observation room on the southeast corner, directly facing the Lukens House. This covered, naturally-ventilated seating area also features historical information about the house.
The Theo offers additional varieties of outdoor spaces: rooftop amenity space, pool and spa area, cabana terrace, lobby courtyard, outdoor kitchen and dining, dog-wash area, and private terraces. The building steps down in a series of terraces, from six to two levels, to accommodate these different programmed areas.
“Pasadena requires 30 percent of total gross square footage to be outdoor usable open spaces,” says McCloskey. “We configured these in combinations of active and passive courtyards – each curated to create a unique experience and many to maximize different views.”
The Theo is slated to open in August 2019.
About KTGY Architecture + Planning
Celebrating 25 years, KTGY Architecture + Planning is an international award-winning full-service architecture and planning firm delivering innovation, artistry and attention to detail across multiple offices and studios, ensuring that clients and communities get the best the firm has to offer no matter the building type or location. KTGY’s architects and planners combine big picture opportunities, leading-edge sustainable practices and impeccable design standards to help create developments of enduring value. KTGY serves clients worldwide from offices located in Chicago, Denver, Irvine, Los Angeles, Oakland, Pune and Tysons. Visit www.ktgy.com
