LADWP’s John Ferraro Building Sets an Example for Design Efficiency

 

Featured image credit: LADWP

You could argue that architecture is, by definition, functional art, but one building in Los Angeles takes this concept further than most. We’ll call it by its official name, the John Ferraro Building. But you likely recognize it as the headquarters of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), colloquially referred to as the LADWP building. In a textbook example of “walking the walk”, the John Ferraro Building exhibits a slew of energy-saving features that marry seamlessly with its sophisticated aesthetic. 

The Streamlined Aesthetic of the John Ferraro Building

Photo credit: LADWP

In 1965, workers completed construction on a 17-story design in the International style by A.C. Martin and Associates that would immediately serve the needs of the largest municipality utility in the country. With each floor (15 above ground and two below) measuring approximately an acre, it adequately accommodates just under one-third of LADWP’s employees. 

Today, the John Ferraro Building continues to strike a significant yet unassuming figure against downtown Los Angeles from its devoted city block along North Hope Street. You can find it just west of the Civic Center looking eastward toward City Hall. It adopted the John Ferraro Building moniker in 2000 in homage to the city’s longest-serving city councilman (and Council President) who represented the 4th District from 1966 until 2001 when he passed away. 

Fittingly enough, it almost resembles an enormous battery looming over its mirrored moat bisected by a welcoming slate bridge. White concrete floor plates punctuate dark glass recessed walls for a uniform serration leading up to a flat roof offering a helipad hidden behind a two-story parapet. During the day, the windowed curtain walls remain dark and mysterious. In the evening, they are set ablaze with light, revealing the interior of the John Ferraro Building. 

Photo credit: Alossix

Accolades and Milestones

In 2012, the building achieved status as a Los Angeles Historical Cultural Monument. But that may be the least stunning accomplishment of the John Ferraro Building. In 2016, the facility netted the prestigious LEED Gold Certification for outstanding energy efficiency. Then, in 2018, it made history by being the first building in the state to achieve eligibility for the illustrious LEED Zero Energy rating as instituted by the U.S. Green Building Council. 

It officially received this honor in 2019, signifying annual operation with an astounding net zero carbon emissions. LADWP alleges it met this stringent requirement by installing state-of-the-art LED technology and promoting water and power conservation by offering rebates. Yet, the John Ferraro Building itself also had a great deal to do with the achievement. 

Innovative Features of the John Ferraro Building

 

The purely electric John Ferraro Building uses a host of energy-efficient innovations in its design to consistently practice what it preaches. Some of the most notable examples include:

• Cooling Moat – A raised moat surrounding the facility isn’t just for appearances. The voluminous reflecting pool serves to keep the building cooler throughout the year, contributing to its sustainable energy use. Beneath the moat, you’ll find the facility’s parking garage, accommodating up to 2,400 vehicles. 

• Solar Modules – In recent years, LADWP has outfitted the parking area of the John Ferraro Building with cutting-edge solar modules. These modules can generate over three times the amount of energy as standard solar panels; enough to power 277 houses. Every year, they generate 1661 megawatt hours, canceling out 578 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. 

• Battery Storage Test Facility – A corner of the parking lot was devoted to LADWP’s battery energy storage system pilot project. The initiative sought to measure the life of current battery technology for LADWP clients. 

Despite its innovation and elegant aesthetic, the John Ferraro Building tends to get lost in the shadow of Downtown LA’s more prominent skyscrapers. Yet, it’s a unique testament to creativity, fusing fashion and function seamlessly while setting a laudable example. If you happen to drive by it in the wee hours, don’t worry about its steady radiance. It’s good for it!