Intersectionality

As Los Angeles is at the intersection of East and West, USC finds itself at the intersection of commercial and residential zones. The project site holds this threshold and like in nature, it is at such thresholds that life is most vibrant. The proposed International House will be a place connections are made and walls are brought down. The surrounding “Collegiate Gothic” context is acknowledged with humorous disdain through a screen of half-tone gothic perforations which embraces the site yet is open to the community. A “Digital Commons” at the community end of the pedestrian mall invites students and neighbors to connect through entertainment and eating. Dense student and affordable housing are integrated with myriad outdoor common spaces, providing opportunities for deeper connection with the community. The International House intersects cultures and classes, providing richness to life.