---
title: "Modern car wash architect: Fashion Square Car Wash | Derek Leavitt"
description: Modern remodel of the Fashion Square Car Wash in Sherman Oaks, CA
---

[![Modative](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-2141536784-gif/26-Nov-modative/modative-logo.gif "Modative")](https://www.modative.com/)

a modern design build firm

[![web counter](http://c.statcounter.com/3932824/0/806ee652/1/)](http://www.statcounter.com/free_hit_counter.html)

### projects

**fashion square car wash** | sherman oaks, ca

A behind the scenes look at the extensive remodel of a mid-century modern car wash - from concept to construction.

[![LA  Car Wash Blog Header](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14184534-jpg/images/la-car-wash-blog-header.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-square-car-wash-architect-los-angeles/)

[back to project page](https://www.modative.com/fashion-square-car-wash-architect-los-angeles/)

# car wash blog

## Derek Leavitt

### Recent Posts

## [Modern Car Wash Remodel Photos](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/32172/Modern-Car-Wash-Remodel-Photos)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Fri, Apr 16, 2010

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We recently had some photos taken of the Fashion Square Car Wash by photographer Sergio Garza - [www.SergioGarza.net](http://www.SergioGarza.net/).

Sergio shot these for his portfolio, so we didn't interfere and advise him of what we wanted. He had free range to express his artistic point of view. We are pleased with the results. They capture the essence of the place, a busy car wash that is only closed (except for rainy days) one day a year. We also like that he took some pictures of just the landscaping.

![modern graphic design](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14033656-jpg/images/car_wash_graphic_design_sign_la.jpg)*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![los angeles modern car wash](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14186036-jpg/images/modern_landscape_gravel_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![modern car wash remodel](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14037298-jpg/images/fashion_square_car_wash_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![car wash los angeles](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14037289-jpg/images/fashion_square_car_wash_order_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![car wash architect](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14033733-jpg/images/car_wash_order_area_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![car wash tunnel watch](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14033955-jpg/images/car_wash_tunnel_remodel_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![car wash tunnel](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14185990-jpg/images/modern_car_wash_tunnel_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![car wash viewing](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14192406-jpg/images/watching_cars_in_wash_tunnel_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![car wash rennovation](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14191555-jpg/images/steel_car_wash_tunnel_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza<http://www.SergioGarza.net/>*

![modern landscaping car wash](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14186055-jpg/images/modern_landscaping_car_wash.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![modern car wash waiting area](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14033750-jpg/images/car_wash_outdoor_waiting_area_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![car wash canopy](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14033056-jpg/images/car_wash_canopy_design_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![modern landscaping](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14186045-jpg/images/modern_landscape_tree_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![modern car wash](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14033722-jpg/images/car_wash_landscape_design_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![drought tolerant landscaping](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14038544-jpg/images/gravel_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![oil change building remodel](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14186065-jpg/images/modern_oil_change_building_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![oil change remodel](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14187881-jpg/images/oil_change_sign_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza*

![oil change building remodel](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188623-jpg/images/remodel_oil_change_building_la.jpg)

*Photo by Sergio Garza - [www.SergioGarza.net](http://www.SergioGarza.net/)*

 

The Fashion Square Car Wash, located in Sherman Oaks, CA (Los Angeles) was remodeled extensively in 2009 by the following team:

**Architect** - [Modative](https://www.modative.com/modative/)

**General Contractor** - [Pacific Empre Builders](http://pebuilders.com/)

**Landscape Architect** - Miriam Rainville

**Structural Engineer** - Ajay Ray

 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/32172/Modern-Car-Wash-Remodel-Photos#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Car Wash](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash), [Car Wash Remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash-remodel), [Modernism](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/modernism), [Los Angeles](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/los-angeles), [los angeles architects](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/los-angeles-architects), [Modern Design](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/modern-design), [Landscape Architect](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/landscape-architect), [Architecture portfolio](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/architecture-portfolio), [Mid-Century Modern](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/mid-century-modern), [modern remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/modern-remodel)

## [Taking the Chore Out of the Car Wash](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/29973/Taking-the-Chore-Out-of-the-Car-Wash)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Thu, Jan 21, 2010

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Following the success of the completed Fashion Square Car Wash, we've decided to start targeting other car washes that could benefit from a modern makeover.

To show car wash owners how our services can help transform their businesses, we developed the quick promo below. Take a look and let us know what you think.

**I recommend viewing it full screen by clicking the "full" button under the image. **

[Take the Chore Out of the Car Wash](http://www.slideshare.net/modative/take-the-chore-out-of-the-car-wash)

View more [documents](http://www.slideshare.net/) from [Modative](http://www.slideshare.net/modative).

 

Modative is a modern architecture firm in Los Angeles that has experience in Car Wash renovation.

 

 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/29973/Taking-the-Chore-Out-of-the-Car-Wash#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Car Wash](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash), [Car Wash Remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash-remodel), [real estate](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/real-estate)

## [Car Wash Remodel Night Photos](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/28297/Car-Wash-Remodel-Night-Photos)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Mon, Nov 16, 2009

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![remodel progress](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188632-jpg/images/remodel-progress-111609.jpg)

A few night photos of the remodeled Fashion Square Car Wash taken by the contractor's superintendent, Fredy Monge of Pacific Empire Builders.

 

![los angeles car wash](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034736-jpg/images/car-wash-remodel-night.jpg)*View from the street with the new drought tolerant landscaping in the foreground.*

 

![car wash remodel canopy](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14040291-jpg/images/la-car-wash-canopy-remodel.jpg)*The remodeled car wash ordering area. The only time of day this area is without cars.*

 

![car wash remodel waiting area](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034829-jpg/images/car-wash-waiting-arae-night.jpg) *The waiting area and new canopy with aluminum louvers.*

 

![oil change building remodel](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14187889-jpg/images/oil-change-remodel.jpg)*The oil change / smog check building. Work on this building was minimal- new stucco and paint. New planter/benches in the foreground.*

 

![car wash retail store remodel](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034769-jpg/images/car-wash-retail-store-night.jpg)*The main car wash building with a peek into the retail store interior.*

 

*Modative is the architect for the Fashion Square Car Wash remodel in Sherman Oaks, CA (Los Angeles). We are actively seeking other car washes that are looking to improve their sales though a modern makeover. Please [contact Modative](https://www.modative.com/contact-modative/) if you are interested in learning more about how a remodeled car wash can drastically improve your business and your customers' satisfaction.*

 2 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/28297/Car-Wash-Remodel-Night-Photos#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Car Wash](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash), [Car Wash Remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash-remodel), [Los Angeles](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/los-angeles), [remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/remodel), [los angeles architects](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/los-angeles-architects)

## [Car Wash Architecture Update](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/25649/Car-Wash-Architecture-Update)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Tue, Sep 08, 2009

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Update September 2009

While we continue to go back in time and add posts of the entire Fashion Square Car Wash architecture and construction process, I thought we'd show a few recent pictures to hold you over until we send in the professional photographers.

If you would like to be notified when we add updates to this project blog, please subscribe by entering your email on the right.

![car wash architects](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034608-jpg/images/car-wash-los_angeles-waiting.jpg)The new waiting area

 

 

![remodel car wash](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14033290-jpg/images/car_wash_exist_main_building.jpg)And, just to remind you, the old waiting area and main building

 

 

![architecture canopy](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034008-jpg/images/car-wash-canopy-architecture.jpg)A close up of the new canopy

 

![canopy detail](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034045-jpg/images/car-wash-canopy-detail.jpg)

Canopy detail

 

![car wash graphics](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034620-jpg/images/car-wash-main_sign.jpg)

We also designed all the new signs

 

![outdated car wash sign](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14033410-jpg/images/car_wash_exist_sign.jpg)

The old sign

 

![drought tolerant landscaping](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034396-jpg/images/car-wash-enter-sign-graphics.jpg)

New drought tolerant landscaping along the street

 

![car wash modern sign](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034495-jpg/images/car-wash-graphics.jpg)The sign and landscaping at the corner

 

![clean sign](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034304-jpg/images/car-wash-clean-sign.jpg)

The simple and "clean" graphics

 

![car wash los angeles](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034843-jpg/images/car-wash-welcome-canopy.jpg) The welcome car wash ordering area

 

![car wash needs remodel](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14033101-jpg/images/car_wash_exist_car_drop.jpg)Before picture of the welcome area

 

![car wash LA](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034699-jpg/images/car-wash-order-path.jpg)

The vacuum area beyond is about to be rebuilt with a new structure and graphics (Sept. 2009)

 

![la car wash architecture](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034783-jpg/images/car-wash-store-entry-path.jpg)

Path to the lobby

 

![car wash interior design](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034181-jpg/images/car-wash-cards.jpg)

The card area

 

![store graphics](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034518-jpg/images/car-wash-interior-sign.jpg)

We brought a similar graphics theme to the store interiors

 

Stay tuned as posts will be added in the coming months to show you more of the architecture and construction process.

 

 3 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/25649/Car-Wash-Architecture-Update#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Car Wash](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash), [Car Wash Remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash-remodel), [Modernism](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/modernism), [Los Angeles](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/los-angeles), [Modern Design](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/modern-design), [Mid-Century Modern](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/mid-century-modern)

## [07 Car Wash Architecture Concept Renderings](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/25008/07-Car-Wash-Architecture-Concept-Renderings)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Thu, Jul 19, 2007

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![car wash progress](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14030195-jpg/images/07-progress.jpg)

Some renderings of the (screen) concept to match the previosly developed [study model](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/23381/05-A-Modern-Car-Wash-Concept-Takes-Form-in-a-Study-Model). We've found that moving back and forth between physical and digital modeling works well for us. Digital modeling is fast while the physical modeling allows us to see the entirety of the design at once and forces us to determine a level of buildability in the architecture.

![Commercial Architecture](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14193352-jpg/docs/car_wash_modelentry_area.jpg)

*View from the street *

![modern architecture](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14187951-jpg/images/order_area.jpg)

*The car wash ordering area *

![store architect](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14192321-jpg/images/waiting-area-11.jpg)

*The waiting area *

 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/25008/07-Car-Wash-Architecture-Concept-Renderings#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Car Wash](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash), [Car Wash Remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash-remodel), [Modernism](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/modernism)

## [06 Retail Store Interiors - Take 1](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/24033/06-Retail-Store-Interiors-Take-1)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Fri, Jun 01, 2007

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![architect process](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14030093-jpg/images/05-progress.jpg)

The ever critical car wash store is much more than just a place to pay for your car wash. If the architecture and interiors are done correctly, it can turn the chore of getting a car wash into a pleasant shopping experience.

This first round of design for the car wash store interiors was intended to reflect the concepts used on the exterior ([see previous post](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/23381/05-A-Modern-Car-Wash-Concept-Takes-Form-in-a-Study-Model)): the screen, simple signs, and improved flow.

![retail architect](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14191613-jpg/images/store-architect-interiors.jpg)

*The cabinetry is composed of stacked pieces of wood of various widths that provide different shelving depths, dramatic shadow lines, and visually relate to the screens used on the exterior. Storage areas just below the display areas are intended to ease the merchandise **stocking**. *

![los angeles store architect](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14191588-jpg/images/store-architect-cafe.jpg)

Simple, one word signs such as "write" (cards) and "give" (gifts) were intended to provide a customer with the essence of what was available in that portion of the store.

![store interiors los angeles](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14191621-jpg/images/store-architect-los-angeles.jpg)

*A birds-eye view of the store layout. *

![floor plan](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14191596-jpg/images/store-architect-existing-pl.jpg)

*The floor plan of the store before the proposed remodel.*

![retail floor plan](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14191629-jpg/images/store-architect-option-a.jpg)

*Several layouts were explored and flow diagrams created to see how to improve the customers experience of moving through the store.*![store floor plans](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14191637-jpg/images/store-architect-option-b.jpg)

*These initial interior layouts included a take-out style cafe. *

![architect flow diagram](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14191605-jpg/images/store-architect-flow-diagra.jpg)

*Although the client was very happy with these concepts for the store, the final constructed design of the store is fairly different, matching the reduced scope of the overall car wash project.*

 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/24033/06-Retail-Store-Interiors-Take-1#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Car Wash](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash), [Car Wash Remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash-remodel), [Modernism](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/modernism), [Retail](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/retail)

## [05 A Modern Car Wash Concept Takes Form in a Study Model](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/23381/05-A-Modern-Car-Wash-Concept-Takes-Form-in-a-Study-Model)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Thu, May 31, 2007

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![architect process](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14030093-jpg/images/05-progress.jpg)

Car washes have an interesting mix of things that should be seen, the automated washing tunnel, and things that should be hidden, noisy and ugly equipment. It is from this observation that the concept of a screen evolved. The density of the screen morphs from nearly opaque to transparent, hiding the unsightly and emphasizing the visually appealing aspects of the car wash process. The screen also doubles as a shading device for both the patrons and employees, protecting them against the often intense heat of the San Fernando Valley.

We began design work with the client asking us to really go for it - to look at a complete transformation of the car wash. This initial concept was almost entirely designed in physical model form.

Here are some pictures of the study model:

 

![architecture model](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14193367-jpg/docs/car_wash_modelfront.jpg)

*The street side of the car wash with a bold new roof canopy and sign.*

 

![Car Wash Modern](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034643-jpg/images/car-wash-model-waiting-area.jpg)

*The waiting area. **Note the Fashion Square graphic.*

 

**![modern architecture](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14193397-jpg/docs/car_wash_modelwaiting-area.jpg)

*The waiting area with screens for sun protection*

 

![modern architect](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14193381-jpg/docs/car_wash_modelorder_area.jpg)

*The wash ordering area *

 

![modern signs](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14193360-jpg/docs/car_wash_modelfront-signage.jpg)**

*We liked the idea of simplified signs throughout the site. Here at the ordering area we went with one word - "clean".*

![modern architect](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14193374-jpg/docs/car_wash_modelorder-screen.jpg)

*Under the ordering canopy*

 

![modern car wash](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034885-jpg/images/carwash-model-ordering-menu.jpg)

*Car wash ordering menus *

 

![architecture car wash ](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14193389-jpg/docs/car_wash_modelscreen-canopy.jpg)

*The screen wall is used to hide some of the equipment. but becomes more transparent down the tunnel allowing people to watch their cars in the wash tunnel.*

 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/23381/05-A-Modern-Car-Wash-Concept-Takes-Form-in-a-Study-Model#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Car Wash](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash), [Car Wash Remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash-remodel), [study model](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/study-model)

## [04 Architecture Study Model Base](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/23373/04-Architecture-Study-Model-Base)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Thu, May 10, 2007

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![architect schedule](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14029952-jpg/images/04-progress.jpg)

We do much of our architectural design work three dimensionally. One of the best ways to achieve this is through physical study models. Because this project was a remodel, we first built a model of the car wash as it exists. A large base model that we could then manipulate with design options.

Here are a few photos of the 1/4"= 1'-0" scale model we built of the existing car wash, before any modifications. The model quickly made us aware of the simple beauty of the exposed steel structure that repeats throughout the building.

![architect model](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14031862-jpg/images/architecture_model_front.jpg)

*The front (street side) of the car wash*

![architect study model](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14031877-jpg/images/architecture_model_overall.jpg)

*The car wash from above (roof of wash tunnel removed)*

![architect model](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14031884-jpg/images/architecture_model_tunnel.jpg)

*The car wash tunnel and beauty of the repetitive steel structure *

 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/23373/04-Architecture-Study-Model-Base#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Car Wash Remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash-remodel), [study model](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/study-model)

## [03 Architecture Concepts](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/22537/03-Architecture-Concepts-Precedents)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Thu, Apr 26, 2007

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![Architecture schedule](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14029778-jpg/images/03-progress.jpg)

Aside from the necessary aesthetic makeover, Modative's initial concept was to rethink the car wash process by making it less of a "chore" and into more of a positive "experience", like going to Starbucks, or the spa.

We also envisioned the car wash having far less of the visual clutter typical of car washes by reducing the number of signs and replacing them with smart design moves that create an atmosphere of high end service.

#### Concept Sketches

We created concept sketches using trace paper over existing photos of the various car wash areas. Some of these sketch ideas were then further visualized with quick renderings. Here's a glimpse into the process:

![existing car wash](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034468-jpg/images/car-wash-front-existing.jpg)

*Before picture of the front of the main building (waiting area).*

![base image](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034455-jpg/images/car-wash-front-base.jpg)

*We took the photo into Photoshop and stripped it down to the bare structure as a starting point for sketching some ideas.*

 

![modern architect concept sketch](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034483-jpg/images/car-wash-front-sketch.jpg)

*This concept sketch was about creating a higher canopy over the waiting area to create more presence at the street. *

![los angeles car wash](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034661-jpg/images/car-wash-order-area-exist.jpg)

*Before picture of the car wash ordering area -sign clutter.  
*

![architect sketch](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034679-jpg/images/car-wash-order-area-sketch.jpg)

*Concept sketch of a cleaner wash ordering area with minimal signs and clear lane distinction. *

![architects rendering](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034650-jpg/images/car-wash-order_area-rendering.jpg)

*Concept rendering of the car wash ordering area - a more refined look.*

![la car wash before picture](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034334-jpg/images/car-wash-detail-area-exist.jpg)

*Before photo of the car wash detailing area. *

![modern architects concept](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034385-jpg/images/car-wash-detail-area-sketch.jpg)

*Our concept was to make this detail area more substantial and call it the car spa.*

![architects sketch](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034363-jpg/images/car-wash-detail-area-sketch-photo.jpg)

*We thought that the detail area or "car spa" could have its own waiting area for the VIP customers.*

![modern architects rendering](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14034346-jpg/images/car-wash-detail-area-rendering.jpg)

*A rendering of the car spa, complete with a green (vegetated roof) to help control runoff. *

 

 

 

 

 

 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/22537/03-Architecture-Concepts-Precedents#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Retail](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/retail), [architecture precedents](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/architecture-precedents), [Inspiration](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/inspiration), [Communication](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/communication)

## [02 Developing a Strategic Plan: The Architecture Program](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/22522/02-Developing-a-Strategic-Plan-The-Architecture-Program)

 Posted by [Derek Leavitt](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/author/derek-leavitt) on Mon, Feb 12, 2007

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![architecture progress](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14029653-jpg/images/02-progress.jpg)

Before designing anything, we developed a project program. In architecture, a program is a document that details out the requirements for the project.

![architecture program diagram](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188420-jpg/images/program_diagram.jpg)

Because of the large size of the car wash property, we broke the program down into ten zones (color coded in image above).

The following images are from the preliminary program as it was initially presented to the client. This working document was continually revised as the project progressed.

[![Architecture Program](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188434-jpg/images/program01_streetscape.jpg)![Car Wash Ordering Area](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188442-jpg/images/program02_wash_ordering_area.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-program/)

[![Car Wash Entry](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188448-jpg/images/program03_walking_entry_path.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-program/)

[![Car Wash Tunnel](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188454-jpg/images/program04_washing_tunnel.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-program/)

[![Store Program](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188461-jpg/images/program05_store_interiors.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-program/)

[![Waiting Area](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188476-jpg/images/program06_outdoor_waiting_area.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-program/)

[ ![office program architect](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188486-jpg/images/program07_upstairs_offices.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-program/)

[![Car Wash Drying](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188503-jpg/images/program08_drying_areas.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-program/)

[![Car Wash Detailing](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188516-jpg/images/program09_detail_areas.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-program/)

[![Oil Change Building](https://www.modative.com/hs-fs/file-14188523-jpg/images/program10_oil_change_building.jpg)](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-program/)

 

 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/bid/22522/02-Developing-a-Strategic-Plan-The-Architecture-Program#comments-listing)

 Topics: [Car Wash](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash), [Car Wash Remodel](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/car-wash-remodel), [Project Strategy](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/project-strategy), [Program](https://www.modative.com/fashion-sq-car-wash-modern-car-wash-architect/topic/program)

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