ACT (Automated Compression Tectonics) proposes a tactical approach for ADU development by individual homeowners on challenging topographic sites. On-site 3D printing is capable of expediting design/deployment of ADUs uniquely adapted to steep sites using compressive structural and spatial systems. In identifying historic street stairs throughout Los Angeles, this strategy incorporates Transit-Oriented Communities locations (Section 65852.2). By mitigating otherwise unusable property with automated strategy, this adapted design/build method streamlines opportunities for individual homeowners to expand occupancy and extend property value.

Purpose and Need

Stagnancy in home construction in Los Angeles has not been able to keep up with demand and population growth, contributing to a growing housing crisis. ACT implements terrain mapping through site surveyed data in order to generate a minimized-footprint compression system. Deployable 3D printed components printed at the scale of an individual ADU utilizes

compressive structural strategies, whose properties are comparable to contour-crafted wall assembly. In order to minimize site impact, these automated compressive structural models can be integrated with specified point-loaded spring-point schemes anchored by pier construction that allow for low impact intervention. Ceramic Paste Printing allows for the

application of fire resistant materials that may afford a community a fire-resistant shelter given the wildfire risk associated with steep terrain locations.

Implementation Methods

ACT’s on-site 3D printed approach is automated and customizable. It allows for structural adaptation as well as varying wall articulation infill to account both structural and mechanical demands. 3D printing also produces a custom aesthetic and functional variation at each site.

Site Selection

ACT brings value to value otherwise underdeveloped neighborhoods. Five sites were chosen based on proximity to existing street stair locations in Mount Washington: Galena Staircase in Omaha Heights , Clermont Staircase, Kilbourn Staircase, and Frieda/Cleland Stairs. These staircases cluster around steep hillside communities near historic transit lines, especially steep-street communities that developed in the 1920s. Public staircases abound in Silver Lake, Echo Park, Mt. Washington, and El Sereno, and the elevated areas of Highland Park, Hollywood, and Santa Monica, and can be found as far from downtown L.A. as Pasadena, Pacific Palisades and Avalon, on Catalina Island.

ADU Policy

Current ADU policy allows up to two units per property with an ordinance to provide one parking space per property. Given the historic and transit-oriented nature of these now forgotten paths, ACT proposes much needed flexibility in ADU policy by targeting existing hillside development within transit oriented districts. Implementation of this design approach in turn proposes a strategy in extended land use occupancy upon owner execution.