Federal cafeteria delivers function, flavor

Five years in the making, the new cafeteria at the 300 North Los Angeles Ave. (300 NLA) Federal Building officially opened last November. Located on a new floor, with new fixtures and furniture, a new service format and new menu options, the only similarity to the old cafeteria is the building’s address. “We are extremely proud to be able to provide our tenants with a facility that not only conserves our natural resources but also enhances the health and wellness of its diners,” says Traci Madison, regional public affairs officer for the U.S. General Services Administration.

The design uses energy and water conservation strategies, sustainable furnishings and finishes and a waste water recycling system.

“The new cafeteria represents an investment in sustainable design and embraces the spirit of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which funded the project,” Madison says.

The design uses energy and water conservation strategies, sustainable furnishings and finishes and a waste water recycling system.

By reusing materials, 95% of construction waste was diverted from landfills. The space is on the path to be the region’s first green cafeteria through the pursuit of LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Now on the second floor, the cafeteria overlooks the building lobby, opening up the space and providing plenty of natural sunlight—a big change from the previous third-floor location, which was difficult for visitors to find.