Chris Lamen and Associates

Chris Lamen and Associates

BEST SMART-GROWTH COMMUNITY 151 UNITS AND OVER

Ohlone Chynoweth Commons is a 194-unit, mixed-use community on an 8.65-acre infill site along a previously underused light-rail station. Designed to help San Jose alleviate its traffic congestion and shortage of affordable housing, the project offers quality housing for low-income families. Rents for the one- to four-bedroom units are based on income. The two-story units are designed to be similar in scale to single-family homes that exist across the street. All have front porches, and many have private garages. Floor plans provide light and air on two sides, multiple furnishing options and good usable space. Exterior design is based on early California classic stucco style. Materials used were stately and durable and complement the buildings' simple strong forms and clean lines. The design quality lies in the articulation of building masses, providing movement and interest from shapes rather than applied ornamentation. Also, the relationship of the buildings to each other forms "outdoor rooms" that will evolve as the project ages and landscaping matures. Smart growth features of this project include the creation of an infill project with an average density of 27 units per acre, located within the urban service area of a large city; use of previously underused infrastructure; an affordable day-care center and retail space for use by the whole community; and a pedestrian-friendly environment with walkways and open space.

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