PROGRAM:
The program called for the adaptive reuse of the office building as a mixed-use project. The project consists of approximately 80,000 SF for a 56-unit cohousing condominium, approximately 15,000 SF of commercial condominium space in a separate wing of the building for live/work use, and artist studios with the opportunity for an art gallery. Typical of cohousing, the future residents were included in the design process.

SOLUTION:
The architect’s vision was to transform the site, which was 95% impermeable prior to redevelopment, into an urban garden. This entailed transforming the parking court in the center of the site to a garden and entry court yard, the incorporation of a “green screen” into the front facade with trellises supporting deciduous vines, and a green “living” roof with plantings that provide rainwater runoff control and thermal protection. Occupants enter residential units via a new covered walkway along the perimeter of the courtyard. The walkway is designed to act as a front porch and encourage interaction among residents. The railings feature planters that individual owners maintain giving the courtyard the look of a hanging garden. The project received a LEED Silver certification.