As the MEP designers, Gotama Building Engineers is working on three adjacent projects (Buildings E1, G1 and the Entry Plaza), assisting the architects in creating a more inviting entry to the campus from Cesar Chavez Avenue.  The renovated and expanded E1 will become the new "one-stop" Student Services Center and the renovated G1 Building will become the new Administration Building.  Juxtaposed between these two buildings and the existing Library, sits the Entry Plaza, envisioned as a park-like space that can accommodate large gatherings and outdoor events. 

E1 Student Services Center is the first major LEED-certified renovation and addition project under the new Title 24 code to serve as a “beta-test” of EnergyPro’s software for whole building simulation used in design submittals for the Department of the State Architect (DSA) and other building departments.  An existing wood structure from the early 1950’s, Gotama Building Engineers designed all new ductwork, HVAC, plumbing and electrical work to accommodate its new usage, including repurposing the mechanical mezzanine in the space planning phase.  E1 Student Services Center totals 51,360 sf with 31,125 sf renovation and 21, 200 sf new construction.

G1 Administration Building, while not LEED-certified, is updated to the new Title 24 code, and features centralized air handlers that will accommodate the need for flexibility in changing zones and volumes for ventilation as usage evolves, thus extending the lifecycle of the building.  A major site on campus as well as a backdrop to the Entry Plaza, Gotama’s attention to detail in specifying gas water heaters and air handling units that could be concealed on the roof in order to preserve the roof lines was essential to the design process. G1 totals 43,542 sf in renovated space, and approximately 75,000 sf will be devoted to the Entry Plaza.

As a utility entrance to the campus, there was a significant amount of coordination required between the water, gas and electrical power companies, in addition to establishing energy connections to the campus’ central mini-plant and the new photovoltaic farm.  For these efforts, these buildings are among the 14 buildings awarded a Savings by Design commendation from the Southern California Gas Company in March 2006 for their sustainable energy principles.

Client:East Los Angeles College, Los Angeles Community College District
Architect:WWCOT
Location:Monterey Park, CA
Completion:2010