Project Data:

Completion Date:     1/1/2025

Square Footage:      836102

Building Use:           Market Rate & Affordable Mixed-Use Residential

Project Description:

Like most emerging technologies, modular construction was initiated with a focus on practicality and efficiency. As the technology evolves, architects are devising innovative ways to elevate and stretch the artistry of the product, emphasizing high design and quite literally, thinking outside of the box.

Located immediately adjacent to major transportation corridors and a regional public transit station, this new mixed-use, mixed-income development pushes the boundaries, proving that the expansive range of modular as a design solution is virtually limitless. Embracing the existing stark look and context of the historically industrial location, this transit-oriented development (TOD) ambitiously delivers two complimentary modular structures in one community. Comprising market-rate apartments and ground-floor retail, the first building features bold colors and enhanced materials including perforated metal panels and brick veneer.

Separated by an active pedestrian paseo, the adjacent fully affordable standalone structure comprises street-level leasing and fitness center enhanced by sophisticated urban design. Anchored by iconic architecture statements at the corners, the industrial-chic design eclectically blends with a contemporary color palette, streamlined forms, and inventive articulated facades that break up the mass of the buildings.

The unique integration of the two dynamic rooftop decks, double-volume ground-level retail and leasing, an active pedestrian paseo, resort-style amenities, and enhanced materials elevate the modern industrial aesthetic. Open floor plans feature studios, one- and two-bedroom units with dens, private balconies, natural lighting, and sleek fixtures and finishes. The development utilizes the latest technology in 3D volumetric prefabrication, exceeds energy efficiency and noise mitigation requirements, and aspires to be a catalyst for contemporary, sustainable, market-rate, and affordable housing. Marrying the best of both worlds, this pioneering community yields the efficiency and accelerated delivery of prefabrication with the high-quality architecture and elevated design of conventionally constructed apartments, achieving a new paradigm for the future of urban modular development.

Firm Name:              AO

Completion Date:     1/1/2025

Square Footage:      836102

Building Use:           Market Rate & Affordable Mixed-Use Residential

Location:                 San Jose, CA

Project Description:
Design for Integration: Considering the existing urban fabric and stark aesthetic of the historically industrial location, the architecture and design integrates the local character of steel and concrete structures that were prominent in the early 20th Century, marking the cultural identity of the city. This project introduces colors and materials that enhance this identity and add new, compatible features to prefabricated construction, yet still, enforce high-caliber design and new technology in view of cost and efficiency.

Design for Equitable Communities: Incorporating a market-rate and affordable building within the same project establishes a mixed-income community for residents at all income levels, bridging a gap for equitable housing in San Jose. Utilizing the versatile characteristics of modular design, equal attention was paid to both buildings, each showcasing a similar industrial design philosophy with its own unique expression. In addition, residents of the community reap the benefits from market-rate amenities, commercial uses, and access to nearby public transit.

Design for Change: A major goal of this project was to showcase the adaptability and quality design afforded by factory-built housing which has been traditionally associated with affordable communities, changing the mind of many who equate modular with a singular, subpar architectural expression. The design demonstrates that modular developments can achieve the same level of design, or better, than conventionally built structures, and that architectural innovation is still evolving for this construction methodology.

Design Architect:
AO

Associate Architect or Firm:

Landscape Architect:
HMH

Owner / Developer:
Miramar Capital Advisors & The Pacific Companies

Engineer:
HMH

General Contractor:
NA

Consultant:
NA

Photographer:
NA - On-the-Boards Renderings Property of AO