Land Concern, alongside Anders Lasater Architects and team, are thrilled to be recognized by the American Institute of Architects OC (AIAOC) Design Awards 2016, for their work on the Silver Trumpet Bar and Restaurant. This exciting project received an honorary Citation Award for redefining and revitalizing a previously unused space within the Avenue of the Arts Hotel in Costa Mesa, CA.

Held in September at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, CA the award was a part of the AIAOC’s Featured Award Category, which focuses on niche areas of design and rotates annually. This year the focus was Food Service, and featured a range of restaurants that were free-standing, tenant or food court based (built or unbuilt).

Of the project:

“The jury applauded the adaptive reuse of this project’s exterior and the transformation of the existing building. They particularly appreciated how it reactivated the street and created a pedestrian scale. Congratulations Anders Lasater Architects.”

Completed in 2013, the overall objective of the project was to revitalize a previously non-descript utility space and transform the back of house façade across from the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. As part of the overall rebranding effort for the Avenue of the Arts hotel, the exteriors and landscaping needed to match the new, sophisticated and cosmopolitan identity, while still creating a meaningful sense of welcome and arrival.

A woven wall of weathered steel was introduced to the space as a tie-in to the large CORTEN weathering steel structure in the Segerstrom Plaza, as well as a range of low water use plants and succulents to create a contemporary and water-wise statement.  Anders Lasater Architects created a glowing light box to encompass the corner of the façade, illuminating the space and creating a dramatic, eye-catching impression. The incorporation of a shimmering entry water feature added to the glamour and glitz of the exterior, and helped identify it as an elegant, upscale destination.

The final product is an enlivened new entry to the restaurant and bar that connects it to the entire area, making it a draw for those visiting the Segerstrom Center or South Coast Plaza.

Read more about our involvement on this award-winning project by visiting the portfolio.