DESCRIPTION
Villa Vasconcellos is an affordable senior housing project located in Walnut Creek, CA. This is one of the first green multi-family housing projects in the city, with solar energy and hot water heating. Designed for independent seniors, the modern two- and three-story building contains fully accessible and adaptable units, organized around two courtyards for gatherings, outdoor exercise and community functions. Through porches, balconies, covered entries, trellises and communal courtyards, residents can enjoy both private and shared outdoor spaces.
VISION
Create sustainable, accessible housing for independent senior living with the goal of “aging-in-place”.
PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
Develop 70 green, accessible and affordable housing units for seniors.
DESIGN FEATURES
- Two courtyards for gatherings, outdoor exercise and community functions
- Porches, balconies and shared courtyards emphasize an indoor-outdoor connection
- Modern architectural massing and carefully articulated details and Natural light and ventilation
GREEN FEATURES
- Solar hot water heating
- Photovoltaic panels
- Naturally lit corridors
- Energy Star® appliances
- 80% of construction waste recycled
- Recycled content carpet
- Sunshades at south-facing windows
- Native drought tolerant planting
- Permeable concrete paving
- Linoleum flooring in common areas
- Stained concrete as finish floor
- Bioswales for rainwater retention
- Low VOC paint, caulking and adhesives
- Urban infill project near public
PROJECT INFORMATION
- Building size/acres: 60,392 sq.ft./1.37 acres
- Density: 51 units/acre
- Completion: February 2008
Awards
- San Francisco Business Times,
Finalist Best Affordable Residential Award, 2009 - National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies, Winner Home Excellence Award, 2008
- Walnut Creek Action for Beauty Council, Sustainable Design Award, 2009