Pacific Landing Affordable Housing
The award-winning design for Pacific Landing Affordable Housing in Santa Monica, Calif. offers a sustainable living environment and fills a unique niche for low income residents and those with disabilities.
- Architectural Credits: Patrick Tighe Architecture
- Owner: Community Corporation of Santa Monica
- Location: Santa Monica, California
Project Overview
Pacific Landing Affordable Housing is a net zero energy, LEED Platinum-certified, 100% affordable housing project in Santa Monica, California, that has transformed the site of a former gas station into a welcome home for people living with disabilities and with limited incomes. The building offers one- to three-bedrooms residences across its four stories that are accentuated by greenspaces and an engaging landscape that offers moments of respite for residents. The ambitious, highly sustainable project is a model for the client, a nonprofit developer, which seeks to provide 100% affordable housing in one of the nation’s most expensive housing markets.
Building program type(s): Residential – Multi-Family 5 or more units, Retail Store, other
Conditioned floor area: 28,686 sq. ft.
Total annual users: 75
Site area: 14,160 sq. ft.
Project site: Previously developed land
Year of substantial completion: 2022
Cost of construction, excluding furnishing: $15,260,440
Framework for Design Excellence
The AIA Framework for Design Excellence represents the defining principles of design excellence in the 21st century. Comprised of 10 principles and accompanied by searching questions, the framework informs progress toward a zero-carbon, healthy, just, resilient, and equitable built environment.
- Equitable Communities
$160.17, 10-year Social Cost of Carbon Intensity ($/kg CO2e/sf)
- Ecosystems
0% of the site area was vegetated (landscape or green roof) pre-development.
12.1% of the site area is vegetated (landscape or green roof) post-development.
12.1% increase in vegetated area, post-development.
87% of vegetated areas are planted with medium to high-quality vegetation
Was the carbon balance of the landscape modeled? No
The site's 10-year landscaping carbon intensity (kg CO2e/sf): n/a
- Water
Stormwater managed on-site: 29%
Water use intensity (gal/sf/year): Benchmark, 39.9; Predicted, 15.8; Measured, [not provided]
Reduction in potable water use from Benchmark: Predicted, 59.5%; Measured,[not provided]
Total annual water demand met using potable sources: Predicted, 100%; Measured, [not provided]
- Economy
Construction cost per square foot: $363
- Energy
Is the building all-electric? Yes
Did the project achieve its 2030 Commitment reduction target (80% reduction by 2020)? Yes
Energy Use Intensity, EUI, (kBtu/sf/yr): Benchmark, 13; Predicted, [not provided]; Measured, 7.1
Energy Reduction, Exclusive of renewables: Predicted, [not provided]; Measured, 46%
Energy Reduction, Inclusive of renewables: Predicted, [not provided]; Measured, 129%
Type of renewables: On-Site
Carbon Intensity, Operational (kg-CO2e/sf/yr): Predicted, [not provided]; Measured, 8.6
Carbon Intensity, Embodied (kg-CO2e/sf/yr): Predicted, [not provided]
Total carbon (operational) over 10 years (kg-CO2e): 336,844
- Well-being
81% of the regularly occupied area is daylit (sDA 300/50%)
6% of the regularly occupied area is compliant with glare criteria (ASE 1000, 250)
56% of the regularly occupied area has quality views
Is there occupant control? Yes, in 6 out of 6 categories
Is CO2 measured? No
- Resources
0% of floor area was reused or adapted from existing buildings
Was embodied carbon modeled? No
Predicted embodied carbon intensity (kgCO2e/sf): n/a
93% of the installed wood is FSC certified
- Change
Was research conducted on likely hazards? Yes, on 8 out of 10 categories
Can the building be used as a safe harbor to support a community during a crisis? Yes
Passive Functionality: Passive Survivability
How many hours can the building function through passive survivability? 48
Building design lifespan: 30 years
Was the building designed for disassembly? Partially
- Discovery
Commissioning: Yes, Basic, On-Going, Enclosure
Post Occupancy Engagement: Yes, in 6 out of 7 strategies
Transparency: Did the team share lessons of the project: Yes, in 8 out of 10 strategies
Who has access to performance feedback: Occupants
Pacific Landing is a mixed-use, net zero, LEED Platinum, 100% affordable housing project designed for people living with disabilities and those on limited incomes. Located on Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica, the building is near downtown Santa Monica and the beach. The project was developed by Community Corp of Santa Monica, a local nonprofit developer. The four-story, 42,000-square-foot building replaced a gas station that once occupied the 14,160-square-foot (contaminated) corner lot. Thirty-seven residences are provided for individuals or families in need. The forms of the building are reminiscent of iconic home imagery but has been reinterpreted in a new composition, representing a new way of seeing affordable housing. The massing of the building is broken down into several smaller components. The volumes are separated by voids, each accentuated with greenspaces. An interior courtyard at the ground level provides a landscaped respite for the residents. All the units are accessed from the central courtyard, which is a shared space for the residents and includes a playground for children.
The client is a nonprofit community developer with a mission to develop and maintain affordable housing for people in need and to provide the necessary services for the residents. The client's goal is to produce 100% affordable housing for the underserved in Santa Monica and throughout Los Angeles.
The building has met ambitious goals for water efficiency, healthy materials, air filtration and ventilation, and stormwater management. The design of the building and its systems achieve energy reduction far below typical buildings of this type. The project is all-electric, utilizing state-of-the-art central electric heat pump water heaters, high-efficiency electric split system heat pump heating and cooling, and all-electric appliances. The project did not use any fossil fuels, such as natural gas. The project also reduces electricity consumption by using high-resistance insulation on the exterior envelope and high-performing windows to prevent thermal transfer. The project also uses a highly reflective CRRC-1 Certified roof to avoid the heat island effect. Even though electricity consumption will be limited, it will also be offset through on-site electricity generation from a solar photovoltaic system. The roof is equipped with a 40 kW solar photovoltaic system offsetting approximately 37% of the site's electricity usage. As a result, this property uses approximately 44% less energy than an average similar code-compliant building.
The design team collaborated with various community groups throughout the design process. Through neighborhood meetings, the team gained community input, criticism, and ultimately support. The project went through a rigorous design review process, with the city’s Planning Department, Architectural Review Board, and the Planning Commission all providing input and approval. The building is one of several new projects contributing to the revitalization of Lincoln Boulevard. The new building replaced an abandoned gas station on a contaminated site and is now a vital part of the city's urban fabric. The building is important to the community, providing much-needed affordable housing and social services for people in need. An integrated playground is provided for building residents. A small café with outdoor seating activates the corner and serves the local community, and social services are provided for the residents.
The building is close to multiple means of public transportation. Residents can walk to nearby stores, restaurants, and markets. Downtown Santa Monica is located a half mile to the north. The building is equipped with charging stations for electric vehicles, and a ride-share program is provided for the residents. Many of the residents are not dependent on vehicles.
Describe the project's approach toward creating an environment that is accessible and welcoming to all and allows everyone to thrive.
The project adopts an inclusive and considerate approach to establish an environment that is accessible and inviting to all, guaranteeing equal opportunities for all residents. It offers 100% affordable housing, comprising 37 residences, providing access to individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Universal design principles are applied to create spaces accessible to people of all abilities—the building features elevators, wider doorways, and barrier-free pathways. Amenities include social services, playgrounds, fitness areas, and communal spaces for diverse needs. This comprehensive approach promotes an environment where everyone can participate and flourish.
Were stakeholders engaged through workshops, meetings, surveys, or other means? If so, what was learned and how does it show up in the design?
Multiple community meetings were conducted to understand the neighborhood's desires and needs and shape this project's design. Driven by both the pressing demand for housing and environmental concerns in the area, the local community fully supported the remediation of the contaminated site and replacing the existing gas station with a new a 100% affordable, LEED Platinum multifamily residential building. Community insights significantly shaped the building's design, culminating in a residential structure that seamlessly integrates resilient infrastructure, sustainable materials, and systems.
Was a social site analysis conducted? If so, what was learned and how does it show up in the design?
The nonprofit developer performed a thorough site analysis to pinpoint vulnerable populations nearby. This examination unveiled a greater presence of low-income residents, minority communities, and individuals more susceptible to environmental and climate effects. Consequently, the recognition of economic challenges drove design decisions that emphasized affordability. These decisions encompassed the use of sustainable and budget-friendly construction materials, energy-efficient systems, and the development of 37 100% affordable housing units.
What does the project do to avoid using materials/manufacturers that perpetuate exploitative labor practices like child and forced labor?
The project places a strong emphasis on ethical labor practices by favoring materials and manufacturers with reputable certifications like Fair Trade or those accredited by organizations such as the Fair Labor Association (FLA). Additionally, it reduces the risk of exploitative labor practices by locally sourcing materials and products, allowing for easier monitoring of working conditions in nearby manufacturing facilities. Overall, transparency in the supply chain is a top priority. The nonprofit developer and the design team conducted extensive research on suppliers during the selection phase to ensure strict adherence to ethical labor standards.
What did the project do to avoid products that are harmful to the community where they were extracted or manufactured (such as vinyl, tropical hardwood, or natural gas)?
The project prioritizes responsible material selection, opting for materials with well-established certifications. For example, the project uses only FSC-certified wood to ensure ethical sourcing and manufacturing. The project also prioritizes local sourcing to support neighboring communities and minimize the negative environmental effects linked to transportation, thus safeguarding the well-being of the source communities. The design team also complied with local, national, and international regulations and standards as a fundamental practice to avoid materials and products known to have adverse effects on communities, demonstrating the project's commitment to responsible and community-friendly choices.
The social cost of carbon is the burden to humanity that results from carbon emissions. The EPA assumes a value of $190/ton CO2 eq. What is the 10-year Social Cost of Carbon Intensity ($/gsf)?
160.17
The site was a former gas station that was remediated to accommodate the new building. A residential (R3) neighborhood abuts the site that consists of both single-family and multifamily dwellings. The building offers new housing and social services for people in need on Lincoln Boulevard, a major thoroughfare in Santa Monica. Existing trees on the site were preserved, and additional street trees were planted. The interior courtyard at the ground level provides a landscaped respite for the residents. Indigenous, drought-tolerant vegetation is planted throughout. The landscape design provides a habitat for local fauna and pollinators. Fruit trees and herb gardens are provided for the residents at the roof terrace.
How does the design minimize negative impacts on animals?
The project minimizes negative impacts on animals through dark skies by employing various strategies that reduce light pollution and its associated disturbances to wildlife. This includes using low-intensity outdoor lighting to minimize artificial light's brightness, preventing potential disorientation and disturbances to nocturnal wildlife. The project also incorporates lighting controls with timers and motion sensors, ensuring outdoor lighting is active only when necessary. This reduces light pollution during periods of inactivity. Effective glare-reduction designs for windows and outdoor fixtures prevent disruptions to wildlife.
How does the project support biodiversity and improve ecosystem services?
Prior to and during construction, biodiversity assessments may be performed to identify and safeguard local species and ecosystems. The project uses native plants in landscaping to promote local biodiversity, creating habitats and food sources for native species. This approach enhances ecosystem services, such as pollination and water purification. Harmful chemical use, such as pesticides and herbicides, is likely minimized to protect local wildlife and pollinators, contributing to the preservation of local ecosystem health and biodiversity.
How does the project increase carbon sequestration through the landscape?
The project enhances carbon sequestration by utilizing diverse methods and elements to capture and store carbon in vegetation and soil. Native plant species in the landscape are ideally suited to the local environment and efficiently capture and store carbon. Soil management practices, such as the application of compost and reduced soil disturbance, enhance soil health and its capacity for carbon sequestration. Additional strategies to prevent soil erosion, like terracing and cover crop planting, safeguard the carbon stored in the soil, preventing its release into the atmosphere.
Metrics
0% of the site area was vegetated (landscape or green roof) pre-development
12.1% of the site area is vegetated (landscape or green roof) post-development
12.1% increase in the percent of vegetated area, post-development
87% of vegetated areas are planted with medium to high-quality vegetation
Was the carbon balance of the landscape modeled? No
The site's 10-year landscaping carbon intensity (kg CO2e/sf): N/A
Please explain if a metric requires additional interpretive information.
The existing site was an abandoned gas station on a contaminated site without any landscape or vegetation. The project provided new landscaped areas and quality vegetation to the site.
The building has met ambitious goals for water efficiency, healthy materials, air filtration and ventilation, and stormwater management. The design of the building and its systems achieve energy reduction far above typical buildings of this type. Infiltration planters mitigate runoff into municipal sewers and Santa Monica Bay, located seven blocks away. Rainwater is collected and stored on-site and offsets the potable water use for irrigation. Grey/black water is also reused on-site for toilet flushing as well as irrigation. The project design meets EPA “Water Sense” goals for indoor plumbing fixtures in which fixture flowrates are at least 20% more efficient than the code requirements.
Describe how the project's stormwater and potable water strategies contribute to site and community resilience.
The project incorporates stormwater management systems with rainwater harvesting. This collected water is reused for irrigation, flushing toilets, and as a backup source of potable water during emergencies, reducing strain on the municipal water supply. It is designed to control erosion and sedimentation, safeguarding the site's integrity and nearby water bodies during extreme weather conditions. The project uses low-flow fixtures and appliances to curb water consumption. This lightens the load on the local water supply. Sink and shower wastewater is recycled and reused, reducing reliance on potable water in an area susceptible to droughts.
Describe the quality of the water that runs off the site.
The project has an effective stormwater management feature that significantly improves the quality of the water that runs off the site. Features like permeable pavements, vegetated swales, and retention ponds help filter and treat runoff, removing contaminants and sediments before they reach natural water bodies.
Describe how and where the project's black water is treated.
The project only uses a greywater recycling system to treat and repurpose wastewater from sinks and showers, reducing dependence on potable water.
Metrics
Stormwater managed on-site: 29.1%
Water use intensity (gal/sf/year): Benchmark, 38.98; Predicted, 15.8; Measured, [not provided]
Reduction in potable water use from Benchmark: Predicted, 59.5%; Measured, [not provided]
Total annual water demand met using potable sources: Predicted, 100%; Measured, [not provided]
The project replaces an urban infill lot that once housed an abandoned gas station on a contaminated site with a building that maximizes residential density and serves people living with disabilities and limited incomes. The project provides 37 residences—a 100% affordable mix of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units for families, couples, and single residents. The project design intentionally reduces the built area by including spaces for multiple purposes, such as social service offices, recreation room, ample interior courtyard, and atrium spaces, as well as roof decks that are accentuated with greenspaces to promote healthy and balanced living for the residents. The project also implemented strategies that are cost- and design-neutral. The sustainable building utilizes cost-effective and durable materials, such as metal panels, stucco, and concrete, that require minimal cleaning and have longer replacement cycles.
How does this project contribute to local and/or disadvantaged economies?
The construction and continual operation of the building created and create job opportunities for Santa Monica's local workforce. The nonprofit developer places a strong emphasis on employing local workers. Additionally, the project sources local materials and products, supporting regional businesses and suppliers. This not only bolsters the local economy but also reduces transportation-related carbon emissions. A locally run café is on the ground level, while the on-site social service office offers resources and programs to aid disadvantaged individuals and families.
How did design choices reduce system sizes and minimize materials usage, allowing for lower cost and more efficiently designed systems/structure?
The design emphasized space efficiency, leading to a reduced building footprint. This not only reduces material requirements but also lowers construction and ongoing operational expenses. Additionally, the design team made structural engineering choices that reduced the need for steel or concrete in the building's frame, resulting in cost savings and a decreased environmental impact. An airtight, well-insulated building envelope minimizes heating and cooling demands, allowing for smaller and more cost-effective HVAC systems. The integration of rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling reduces the reliance on potable water, ultimately reducing costs and resource consumption.
How did life cycle cost analysis influence the project's design?
The analysis influenced decisions in favor of durable materials, despite higher initial costs, to lower maintenance and replacement expenses over the building's life. For instance, premium roofing materials and corrosion-resistant structural components have extended longevity. The analysis also prioritized energy-efficient design choices, which often result in lower ongoing operational costs. For example, the design uses energy-efficient HVAC systems, lighting, and insulation alongside renewable energy sources like solar photovoltaic systems. The project also embraces long-term sustainability practices, such as rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and water-efficient landscaping, significantly reducing water and utility expenses throughout the building's life.
Cost
Construction cost per square foot: $363.34
The building operates entirely on electricity, employing advanced central electric heat pump water heaters, high-efficiency split system heat pump HVAC, and all-electric appliances. The project does not use any fossil fuels. To further reduce energy consumption, the project incorporates high-resistance insulation in the exterior envelope, efficient windows to prevent heat transfer, and a highly reflective CRRC-1-certified roof to avoid the heat island effect.
While the project’s electricity usage is minimal, it will also be offset by the on-site solar photovoltaic power generation from a 40kW system on the roof that will meet around 37% of the site’s electricity needs. With these strategies, the building uses roughly 44% less energy compared to an average building complying with standard codes. This project is sustainable while also promoting energy efficiency, setting a high standard for the affordable housing typology.
Describe any energy challenges associated with the building type, intensity of use, or hours of operation, and how the design responds to these challenges.
Unlike commercial buildings, residential buildings are occupied around the clock. To meet this challenge, designs include energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and programmable thermostats for reduced nighttime energy use. Prioritizing efficiency, designs feature high-performance insulation, windows, and orientation to minimize heating and cooling needs. Proper orientation and shading also enhance natural lighting and diminish artificial lighting requirements. Passive solar design and thermal mass ensure year-round indoor temperature control. Energy-efficient fixtures and appliances, like Energy Star-rated items, lower energy and water consumption. Passive design principles, including natural ventilation, insulation, and thermal mass, aim to maintain comfort with limited reliance on mechanical systems.
Metrics
Is the building all-electric? Yes
Did the project achieve its 2030 Commitment reduction target (80% reduction by 2020)? Yes
Energy Use Intensity, EUI, (kBtu/sf/yr): Benchmark, 13; Predicted, [not provided]; Measured, 7.1
Energy Reduction, Exclusive of renewables: Predicted, [not provided]; Measured, 46%
Energy Reduction, Inclusive of renewables: Predicted, [not provided]; Measured, 129%
Type of renewables: On-Site
Carbon Intensity, Operational (kg-CO2e/sf/yr): Predicted, [not provided]; Measured, 8.6
Carbon Intensity, Embodied (kg-CO2e/sf/yr): Predicted, [not provided]
Total carbon (operational) over 10 years (kg-CO2e): 336,844
The volumes of the project are separated by voids, each accentuated with greenspaces. An interior courtyard at the ground level provides a landscaped respite for the residents. All the units are accessed from the central courtyard, which includes a playground for children. Social services, a café, and other amenities are located at the ground level. Parking is provided below grade. Ample common spaces are located throughout the building and at the rooftop terrace, which opens to the north and provides views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The project also prioritizes occupant comfort by ensuring access to fresh air in all the regularly occupied spaces. Glazing and sun studies were conducted during the early stages of project planning to optimize daylight against excess heat gain. Optimal ventilation, natural and mechanical, throughout the building ensures occupant health as well.
Was a chemicals of concern list or other third-party framework used to inform material selection? If so, how?
There is no requirement in the LEED for Homes rating system to track which construction materials had third-party certification, but the design team made use of material transparency databases, such as the International Living Future Institute's Declare database and the Health Product Declaration Collaborative's HPD Open Standard. These databases furnish in-depth insights into the chemical makeup of construction materials, which help pinpoint potentially problematic chemicals. Additionally, the design team collaborated with various stakeholders, including suppliers and manufacturers, to procure materials that aligned with the sought-after standards for chemical safety and environmental impact.
How did the project advocate for greater transparency in building material supply chains?
Suppliers were required to furnish in-depth documentation regarding the sourcing, makeup, and production methods of the materials and products they delivered. This documentation was shared with all relevant parties to promote transparency. Suppliers shared details about the chemical constituents of their products, especially any substances of concern. This commitment advanced transparency about the materials' potential effects on health and the environment. Efforts were made to procure materials from local sources and suppliers committed to ethical and transparent sourcing practices. This ensured that the project's materials remained untethered from unsustainable or unethical origins.
Metrics
81% of the regularly occupied area is daylit (sDA 300/50%)
6% of the regularly occupied area is compliant with glare criteria (ASE 1000, 250)
56% of the regularly occupied area has quality views
Is there occupant control? Yes, in 6 out of 6 categories
Is CO2 measured? No
Please explain if a metric requires additional interpretive information.
Contaminant, CO2, and VOCs are not monitored.
The building, on a former gas station site, is a vital resource, offering affordable housing and social services for the neighborhood. Building materials were selected for their durability, sustainability, and aesthetics. Strategies were implemented to substantially reduce materials that embodied carbon, such as using low-carbon exterior cladding materials, low-carbon concrete, low-carbon insulation system, and locally sourced materials. The primary structural system employs an FSC-certified wood frame and durable 100% plastic lumber for decking.
The commitment to environmental responsibility extends to the entire life cycle of the building. A comprehensive life cycle analysis (LCA) ensured a climate-focused design. The design prioritized spatial flexibility to accommodate various users and minimize waste during possible future renovations. The building’s daily operations are environmentally conscious, with efficient waste management, including dedicated sorting and recycling areas for the occupants. Additionally, water fountains in the recreation room promote a reduction in single-use packaging waste, contributing to the goal of a zero-waste facility. The building provides more than just essential services; it also sets a strong example of sustainability and responsible construction practices.
Did embodied carbon considerations inform the design? How?
The building's design prioritized the consideration of embodied carbon. Careful material selection emphasized attributes like durability, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. Various strategies were put in place to significantly decrease the carbon footprint of the materials used. This included using low-carbon exterior cladding materials, low-carbon concrete, a low-carbon insulation system, and locally sourced materials. The primary structural system features an FSC-certified wood frame and 100% plastic lumber for decking.
Did the idea of circularity/circular economy inform the design? How?
The design focuses on waste reduction and optimizing resource efficiency. The design employed materials with lower environmental impact, emphasizing their potential for reuse and recycling and diminished waste during construction and demolition. The building's structure was purposefully engineered for durability and a prolonged life cycle. Materials and construction techniques were chosen to extend the building's longevity, reducing the need for replacements. Adaptability was key; the building allows for easy space modifications, which will minimize waste and reduce the need for demolition and extensive reconstruction in any future renovations.
Describe any special steps taken during design/construction to make disassembly, deconstruction, or reuse easier at the building's end of life.
Comprehensive labeling and documentation during construction explain the building's layout and material composition to allow for efficient deconstruction and future reuse. Material selection prioritizes recyclability and easy separation for future repurposing. Building systems and components, such as HVAC and electrical systems, are designed for nondestructive removal, enabling replacement or reuse. The building’s design considered potential future uses and adaptability, curbing the likelihood of demolition and fostering the potential for repurposing the structure.
Metrics
0% of floor area was reused or adapted from existing buildings
Was embodied carbon modeled? No
Predicted embodied carbon intensity (kgCO2e/sf) n/a
93% of the installed wood is FSC certified
Please explain if a metric requires additional interpretive information.
None of the existing structure was adapted from the existing site because the site was originally contaminated from its previous use as a gas station.
Under the LEED for Homes Multifamily Midrise rating system, there is no requirement to track building materials’ health certifications with the BPDO calculator or to generate an embodied carbon report. These are optional, harder-to-reach innovation and pilot credits for this rating system, unlike other BD+C or ID+C rating systems.
The project prioritizes passive survivability, ensuring its functionality without utility power for a short duration. It relies on on-site energy storage systems for emergency or backup power, enabling extended islanding periods. Passive features like solar photovoltaic systems, thermal mass, and cross-ventilation are incorporated to exhaust and prevent the buildup of contaminated air. Rainwater collection and filtration, along with potable water storage systems, ensure the occupants’ access to clean drinking water independent of the municipal power grid.
Flexibility is key to the project’s sustainable approach. Open and spacious interiors without interior bearing walls allow for easy reprogramming in any future renovation. Systems within the building are also highly versatile to accommodate evolving technological advancements, such as adaptable HVAC systems suitable for potential replacement and service cycles. The design also addresses grid stability, managing energy use during peak demand and extreme weather conditions. On-site photovoltaics are also supported by a battery energy storage system, reducing the strain on the grid during peak demand periods. This extensive approach ensures the building’s resilience, adaptability, and sustainability in a dynamic environment.
In what ways does the design anticipate climate change over the life of the building?
The design integrates cutting-edge insulation, energy-efficient windows, and highly efficient HVAC systems, all aimed at minimizing energy consumption. This plays a vital role in mitigating the effects of climate change by curbing the emission of greenhouse gases associated with energy usage. The building incorporates water-saving fixtures and systems, including low-flow toilets and rainwater harvesting, crucial for water conservation, especially in regions like California that are at risk of water shortages and droughts. To further increase resilience to the impacts of climate change, the building employs locally sourced materials renowned for their durability in varying weather conditions, ensuring minimal maintenance requirements.
How does the design anticipate restoring or adapting function in the face of stress or shock, such as natural disasters, blackouts, etc.?
The building is equipped with passive survivability, ensuring it remains operational even without utility power for a limited time. In the event of an emergency, the on-site energy storage systems will provide emergency backup power. Passive elements, such as solar photovoltaic systems, thermal mass, and cross-ventilation, are integrated to facilitate the exhaustion of stale air and prevent the accumulation of contaminants. The building features rainwater collection and filtration, along with potable water storage systems, guaranteeing occupants access to clean drinking water independent of the municipal power grid.
Metrics
Was research conducted on likely hazards? Yes, on 8 out of 10 categories
Can the building be used as a safe harbor to support a community during a crisis? Yes
Passive Functionality: Passive Survivability
How many hours can the building function through passive survivability? 48
Building design lifespan: 30 years
Was the building designed for disassembly? Partially
Please explain if a metric requires additional interpretive information.
In the absence of an external energy source, the building energy modeling is estimated to sustain essential functions for a maximum of 48 hours by using energy storage systems, such as batteries or thermal mass, to store energy for that period. The project is also equipped with state-of-the-art energy-efficient building envelope strategies, such as well-insulated walls, roofs, and windows, to minimize heat loss or gain.
The building is brand new and was expected to be fully occupied by October 2023. The nonprofit developer is committed to post-occupancy evaluations and is planning a satisfaction survey at the one-year mark in October 2024. Necessary improvements will be made during the occupancy period based on the occupants’ needs and concerns. As of today, the project has received positive feedback from residents regarding the contemporary design, livability, and the generous communal spaces with abundant greenscapes. An opening ceremony was held in early June 2023 so that the affordable housing community and potential residents could learn more about the net zero, LEED Platinum design systems, promoting the value of a resilient and equitable building for the affordable housing typology.
What lessons learned through this project have been used to improve subsequent projects?
Insights from this project's sustainability efforts, including green building practices and renewable energy integration, have steered similar strategies in future projects. Knowledge gained about energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials from this project has enhanced environmental performance in subsequent endeavors. Effective community engagement methods used here, involving local residents and businesses, have been models for stronger community partnerships in future initiatives. Wisdom about communication and collaboration has fostered positive relations with stakeholders. The project's commitment to materials transparency has spurred more rigorous assessment procedures, including developing chemicals of concern lists and third-party frameworks, in future projects.
If a post-occupancy evaluation was conducted, describe the process and outcomes.
Post-occupancy evaluation will be performed in October 2024.
If a post-occupancy performance testing was conducted, describe the process and outcomes.
[NOT PROVIDED]
If energy and/or water modeling was performed, describe any differences between predicted and measured use.
There is not enough measured data to compare as the building has not yet been occupied for a year. A post-occupancy evaluation will be performed in October 2024 and shared with residents, the profession, and the public to aid in creating additional net zero, LEED Platinum, 100% affordable residential buildings.
Metrics
Commissioning: Yes, Basic, On-Going, Enclosure
Post Occupancy Engagement: Yes, in 6 out of 7 strategies
Transparency: Did the team share lessons of the project: Yes, in 8 out of 10 strategies
Who has access to performance feedback: Occupants
Please explain if a metric requires additional interpretive information.
The nonprofit developer has planned a feedback survey at the one-year mark in October 2024.
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Project team & jury
Architect - Patrick TIGHE Architecture
Interior Architect - Patrick TIGHE Architecture
General Contractor - Walton Construction
Landscape Architect - Yael Lir Landscape
Consultant - LEED / Sustainable Design - Raimi + Associates
Consultant - Energy Modeling - Energy Partners
Consultant - Lighting - eSquared Lighting
Consultant - Acoustical - dBF Associates
Engineer - Civil - DKE Engineer Corp
Engineer - Structural - NOUS Engineering
Engineer - MEP - IDIAZ Design
Nadine Saint-Louis, AIA, Chair, McHarry Associates, Miami
Yu-Ngok Lo, FAIA, YNL Architects, Culver City, Calif.
Jack Rusk, Assoc. AIA, EHDD, San Francisco
Eddy Santosa, AIA, Mott MacDonald, Los Angeles
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