JKA 25 Years: 2019

Once a drag racing strip, the San Fernando Raceway evolved into one of SoCal's largest open-air swap meets. Part discount mart, informal community center, and tianguis, JKA was asked by the owners to design improvements that would create a heightened sense of place and comfort for patrons, vendors, and most particularly the City of San Fernando. JKA’s design incorporated serape-inspired street painting to create a wayfinding carpet along key pathways. Pre-engineered shade structures covered a new central plaza, allowing for increased live programming and additional shelter from the sun. Landscaping along the perimeter softened the transition between the site and surrounding community. On-site box containers were stacked and painted to create entry gateways with a new swap meet identity. The design was an integral part of a 2019 City-approved conditional use application that not only extended the life of the meet, but also enhanced its daily use, festivity, and cultural identity.