Neptune Marina

Nominated by: TCA Architects
Location: Marina Del Rey, CA
Developer: Greystar
Architect: TCA Architects
General Contractor: Johnstone Moyer
Interior Designer: Mannigan Design
Project Website: www.liveneptunemarina.com

Project Statement

Neptune Marina is inspired by the era of mid-century modern design. The design of Neptune Marina reflects the same timeless quality, clean simplicity, and integration with nature for which the mid-century style is known. The form giving influence of the project is derived from an architectural expression of post and beam with ample windows, open floor plans, and a desire to bring the outdoors in.

Influenced by “Breeze Blocks,” the elevations included custom-designed concrete block, a signature feature of the mid-century modern style. The blocks are made from the ashes of coal, bonded together by Portland cement, and used for accent walls that bear relatively small loads. The decorative, yet functional design defines space while providing porosity and a cool, custom vibe. Utilizing a sophisticated palette of natural stone, subdued colors and simple metal accents, the contemporized modern aesthetic complements the updated marina and celebrates the local outdoor environment.

The goal of the design is not to attempt to change the course of a culture nor to produce stylistic replicas of a time past, but rather to fuse the current social realities and cultural expressions with the physical experiences of the site’s history. Symbolic forms and icons are borrowed from the past and re- arranged into striking new compositions. A conscious effort was made to synthesize vernacular tradition with a modern language to create architecture firmly rooted in its own place and time.