Project Title: Pacific Overlook
Location: San Pedro, CA, United States
Built, Unbuilt or Under Construction: Built
Project Year: 2010
Firm: CMG Landscape Architecture
Firm Website: www.cmgsite.com
Project Team Members: Willett Moss, Rayna deNiord

Project Description: CMG began work in 2004 with the LA Harbor/Watts Economic Development Corporation on the development of an open space master plan for the San Pedro port in the Los Angeles harbor area. The master plan resulted in a series of proposals for connecting these spaces through a community-oriented waterfront.

The project addresses site issues associated with shoreline stability and geotechnical requirements. Working closely with the project’s geotechnical and civil engineers, CMG developed a unique design solution to prevent infiltration and runoff by capping the site while providing planting areas, parking, and community gathering spaces. The resulting space provides seating and gathering areas oriented to expansive views of the ocean. The use of materials and the design vocabulary reflects the industrial history of San Pedro and the popular Sunken City ruins.

CMG’s design features wooden viewing platforms and Cor-Ten steel planters that rest on top of concrete pads that harness the site. The planters host a variety of sedums that, once established, require no additional irrigation. The decks and walls provide a multitude of opportunities for unobstructed and elevated views of the ocean. The plaza serves the local community’s desire for a flexible open space that can be used for a variety of activities, from neighborhood-wide events to group yoga.