Diana G Ramirez

This visionary renovation of an old military base in Orange County transforms history into a sustainable future while embracing the indigenous agricultural wisdom of the Three Sisters—corn, beans, and squash. Spanning thousands of acres, the project reimagines the site as a hub for community-driven agriculture and dining, celebrating harmony, interdependence, and resilience.
At its heart lies a restaurant where locally harvested, seasonal ingredients take center stage, inspired by the unity and collaboration of the Three Sisters planting method. The food served here not only nourishes the body but also connects visitors to the land and the shared tradition of cultivation. Surrounding the restaurant, the garden offers guests the unique experience of growing their own food, reinforcing the values of sustainability and self-reliance.The site also hosts a brewery, dairy production, and a honeybee comb, weaving together a sustainable ecosystem that supports pollination and enriches the agricultural landscape. Adding to the vibrancy of the project, a dedicated children’s program imparts the importance of food cultivation to the next generation, nurturing curiosity, awareness, and environmental stewardship.
By blending heritage with innovation, the Three Sisters Tower creates a lasting connection between the land, its people, and the values of sustainability—where food, community, and history flourish together

Spring 2024

Professor: Miriam Mojdehi

Key Features of the Renovation
This renovation transforms Los Toros Tower into a vibrant community hub, seamlessly blending modern design with sustainable practices to create an enriching experience for visitors.

• Community Garden: At the heart of the project is a lush community garden, where visitors can immerse themselves in the joy of cultivating their own food. From planting to harvesting, this interactive space connects people to the land and fosters a sense of unity and purpose.

• Locally-Sourced Restaurant: The on-site restaurant brings the farm-to-table philosophy to life, serving seasonal dishes crafted from ingredients grown in the surrounding fields. Guests can savor the authentic flavors of the region while supporting sustainable agriculture.

• Brewery and Dairy Production: Adding to the experience is a brewery offering craft beverages and a dairy production facility showcasing local expertise in creating fresh, wholesome products.

• Honeybee Comb and Pollination: A dedicated honeybee comb supports pollination, enriching the garden’s blooms and contributing to the ecosystem. Visitors can learn about the vital role bees play in maintaining a healthy environment.

• Children’s Food Cultivation Program: Designed with young learners in mind, this program engages children in understanding the importance of food cultivation. Through hands-on activities, it aims to inspire the next generation to appreciate sustainable practices and healthy eating.

• Recycled Water Irrigation and Water Collection System: Sustainability is further emphasized through the use of an on-site recycled water system that irrigates the garden and fields. A state-of-the-art water collection system captures and stores rainwater, ensuring efficient and eco-friendly resource management to support the tower's agricultural and ecological features.