Project Data:

Completion Date:     9/30/2024

Square Footage:      124146

Building Use:           Mixed-Use

Project Description:

The Mercury is a visionary 255-unit mixed-use infill project situated on 5 acres of a neighborhood commercial center. A site once marred by a disreputable nightclub, which inadvertently elevated crime rates in an otherwise stable vicinity, has been ingeniously transformed. The structure comprises five levels of rental apartment units enveloping a 7-story concrete parking structure, which will host a rooftop recreation haven exclusively for residents. Notably, 10% of these apartments will be offered at an affordable rate, securing a density bonus and additional incentives for the developer. On the ground floor, several apartment units were integrated alongside the commercial space.

The City of Pico Rivera had not overseen a project of such magnitude and intricacy in years. The project's novelty required circumventing the General Plan's constraints, necessitating a Specific Plan and Conditional Use Permit to validate the proposed change in use. This strategic shift carried multifaceted benefits: it curbed vehicle trip miles (VTMs), enhanced walkability, furnished vital housing for local service sector employees, and introduced a measure of affordable housing to the area.

A critical facet was the site's adjacency to residential single-family neighborhoods, compelling the design team to orchestrate multiple outreach events to enlighten homeowners about the project's potential impact. Each event showcased our attentiveness to their feedback from previous interactions and delineated how our design adaptations assuaged their concerns.

Securing approval for this venture demanded a symphony of processes, involving an array of sub-consultants meticulously selected for their domain expertise. They each played a crucial role in navigating the intricate landscape of political entities, commercial stakeholders, and local homeowners within the project's sphere of influence. The Mercury stands as a testament to perseverance, collaboration, and visionary leadership, setting a benchmark for future endeavors in architectural innovation and sustainable urban development.

Framework for Design Excellence

Design for Economy - Collaborating closely with the client to optimize investment portfolio potentials, our design and planning teams explored a range of product and yield possibilities. After thorough research, we strategically formulated a comprehensive program aimed at replacing the existing underperforming commercial center with an innovative mixed-use development. By incorporating this fresh mixed-use development, it would draw patrons to the retail area surrounding the community, thus revitalizing businesses that had been adversely affected by the need of customers. Also, by integrating the retail space, new businesses can be introduced to the center and attract additional customers in the area.

Firm Name:              Danielian Associates Architects + Planners

Completion Date:     9/30/2024

Square Footage:      124146

Building Use:           Mixed-Use

Location:                 Pico Rivera, CA

Design Architect:
Danielian Associates Architects + Planners

Associate Architect or Firm:
Danielian Associates Architects + Planners

Landscape Architect:

Owner / Developer:
Optimus Properties

Engineer:

General Contractor:

Consultant:

Photographer: