Loma Linda, CA was the site for Guachama Linda, a collaborative, urban design project done in 2010 by masters of architecture students at Andrews University. Historically, this area was occupied by the Serranos who gave it the name "guachama" which means "plenty to eat". Orange groves were prominent during those times and were used as a means to bring the local Indians in the Catholic Church. Over time, however, the groves slowly began to disappear as the area became more and more developed. As such, one of our primary goals was to preserve what agricultural land remained and revitalize the orange grove industry while introducing additional uses that would respond to the needs of the community. The residents of Loma Linda are well known for their healthy lifestyles, diets and their longevity. We wanted enhance it by providing open spaces, recreational activities and healthy food options.
A perspective view of the agricultural lands and the equestrian center with the
San Bernadino Mountains to the north.
San Bernadino Mountains to the north.
We used the transect to guide the design and development of this project. Another type of form-based code, the transect is an approach to the built environment that provides a range of "habitats" for people, recognizing that with a diversity of people comes a diversity of living preferences and, consequently, living accommodations. This approach to the design of the built environment allows for more complete and holistic neighborhoods while reducing the need to travel long distances to access basic amenities.
The urban transect typically has six different habitats ranging from natural preserve to urban core. On our site, however, only four were present: T2 (Rural), T3 (Suburban), T4 (General Urban) and T5 (Urban Center). The concept and idea of the transect, and how it physically manifests itself, will vary from place to place. Our site, and the surrounding area, did not warrant a transect zone higher than urban center, which would be T6 (Urban Core). Other sites may not have zones lower than suburban. The application of the transect, what each zone looks like and how it is designed, will vary from site to site based on case-by-case scenarios.
Site Plan
A view inside the paseo network. This design feature uses mid-block development to create a unique series of spaces.
Perspective view of the retail center with the proposed local school in the background.
Perspective view of the community gardens which will be used to provide healthy food options to
local and neighboring residents.
local and neighboring residents.