LOS ANGELES-Green and affordable housing complex Lotus Garden will unveil Southern California's first CarMatrix, a semi-automated car-staking system designed by Harding Steel. The parking structure uses shifting platforms that can move vertically and horizontally, therefore maximizing the number of cars stored in the space. Even better, because the platforms shift, all cars can be accessed at ground level.

A rotating car structure seemingly predicts disaster; however, the CarMatrix uses an all-electric chain system in place of hydraulics and cables to ensure security and fluidity between transitions. A keypad control allows uses to access their own vehicles, virtually eliminating the need for a parking attendant. The CarMatrix at Lotus Garden complex can hold 17 vehicles.

Located in Chinatown, Lotus Garden is a 60-unit affordable living complex from developer Affirmed Housing Group. The property targets families with household earnings 30%-60% of the median family income, and aims to disprove myths that affordable housing is also substandard. In addition to the CarMatrix, the building features green elements like solar water heating and rooftop community areas. Rents range from $370 for a studio apartment to $1,236 for a three-bedroom.