Prioritize the environmental sustainability of built elements through low-impact design principles.
Given that architectural elements within parks and recreational areas are intended to complement and enhance the surrounding landscape, they should contribute meaningfully to both the natural environment and the visitor experience through the application of passive design strategies and established sustainable practices. Additionally, sustainability should be prioritized not only to minimize environmental impact, but also to protect the ecological integrity of park settings, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and create healthier, more resilient spaces for community use. Where feasible, design solutions—such as solar-powered lighting for pathways and pavilions, green roofs or living walls, natural ventilation in restrooms and shelters, optimized site orientation for shade and comfort, permeable paving, and rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation—should be integrated early in the design process to maximize ecological performance, operational efficiency, and long-term community benefit.
Embed sustainability in both the construction phase and the final built form of architectural elements.
The construction of new architectural elements should also be guided by a commitment to environmental sustainability, including the implementation of a comprehensive construction waste management plan, the reuse of salvaged materials, the minimization of site disturbance, and the adoption of design/construction methods that support future adaptability and ease of disassembly. The architect, landscape architect, engineers, and construction team should closely collaborate to determine which sustainable practices will be most effective on each project. When possible, prioritize carbon neutral construction methods.
Support and advance the sustainability goals identified by the City of Los Angeles and the State of California.
New building structures within parks and recreational areas should demonstrate alignment with the sustainability objectives of the City of Los Angeles and the State of California, helping advance municipal and statewide environmental priorities. An example of this includes supporting the City’s Green New Deal targets—such as reducing embodied carbon, enhancing energy efficiency, and expanding on-site renewable energy generation.