Apple's Los Angeles flagship store, located in The Grove at Farmer's Market, is a 7000 sf two-story party wall structure that celebrates Apple's high design aesthetic. The store must be bright and dramatic while simultaneously providing a comfortable and effective environment for viewing computer monitors.

Loisos+Ubbelohde consulted on the store's daylighting design and glazing specifications, considering both exterior and interior views, as well as the quantity and quality of interior light conditions. The transparent storefront welcomes views into the "stage set" interior. At night, the store is illuminated by pools of electric lights, providing bountiful visual access through the glass facade. During the daytime, however, abundant exterior light tends to limit the facade's perceived transparency. Addressing this issue, a large rectangular skylight was designed to brighten the interior; a glass staircase climbs directly underneath it, generating a spatial and visual focus while reflecting light and providing sparkle.

Radiance rendering of skylight and glass stairs.

Radiance plan of upper floor. The skylight will provide ambient light on overcast days without interfering with displays.

We analyzed lighting conditions, using computer modeling to generate isolux contours, false color mapping of surface luminance values and accurate perspective renderings. We developed recommendations to improve interior comfort and visual quality by mediating glare on glossy or reflecting surfaces, excessive brightness, and thermal discomfort resulting from direct sun penetration into the building. The facade was resolved with a single story of glass at entry level and an upper story of metal panels. A state-of-the-art glass assembly was specified for the skylight, reducing visible and thermal radiation while allowing a large area to be exposed to the sky. This approach reduces the potential for glare-producing hot spots and works with the glossy, light finishes in the space for both diffuse illumination and controlled lighting for rear projection screens. Photosensitive dimming controls also were recommended to ensure sufficient indoor light levels as well as energy savings.a

View upstairs to the Screening Room	Radiance false color rendering of stairway from first floor.

Radiance plan on a clear day, light from above will penetrate to the first floor, balancing light admitted through the show window.

BACK to TOP

Previous Project | Next Project

The skylight and glass stairs provide spatial and visual focus.