Project Data:

Completion Date:     7/26/2024

Square Footage:      96665

Building Use:           Affordable housing

Project Description:

Archways embodies a harmonious blend of bold aesthetic appeal, intelligent functionality, and social responsibility. Through thoughtful and innovative design, Archways over-delivers on the original design goal to provide much-needed, amenity-rich affordable housing to large families and supportive, integrated housing for individuals, families, and transition-aged youth experiencing homelessness. Located on a highly walkable site in Santa Ana, CA, the development holds 85 units, all reserved for individuals and families earning 30%-60% of the average median income. Nearly 75% of units are reserved for extremely low-income households earning 30% or below the average median income, many of which are permanent supportive housing units. The project provides extensive onsite services and facilities, robust indoor and outdoor amenities, and overall high-quality living to its residents. Archways stands as a testament to community-driven design, with every feature converging to support an empowered resident community and a vibrant neighborhood.

Design for Integration, Design for Equitable Communities, Design for Economy, Design for Energy, Design for Well-being 

Design for Integration
Archways is a radiant addition to the Santa Ana community, contextually fit into the site through meticulous design. Colorful facades and bold archways greet the neighborhood along street frontages, while parking is nestled deeper into the site and obscured from view. The site and building design prioritize secure walkability, convenient access, and connection between residents and the broader community.
Strategic location elevates residents’ ease of day-to-day life. Archways is conveniently located on both main east/west and north/south transportation routes, with multiple regular OCTA bus service stops less than 400 feet from the development. Additionally, the project is within one mile of two stops on the future OC Streetcar track.
Walkability was another driving force in the site selection. Archways is directly across the street from a major grocery store, under one mile from five different public and private schools, and under one mile from Santa Ana College. Within walking distance of a variety of retail, public transportation, healthcare facilities, parks, the Santa Ana River Trail, educational and civic facilities, Archways serves as a dynamic hub.

Design for Equitable Communities
The driving force of the Archways’ creation is to foster an equitable community, which is evident in every part of the development’s highly intentional design. Archways is an inclusive community committed to the comprehensive support and overall wellbeing of its tenants, as well as the outreaching support of the greater community.
With the primary goal of serving the locals of Santa Ana, the project design centers on the diverse needs of individuals and families earning between 30% and 60% of the area median income. Nearly 75% of units are reserved for extremely low-income households earning 30% or below AMI. A large portion of units are permanent supportive housing units. Archways is specifically designed to meet the both the housing needs of large families and the supportive, integrated housing needs of individuals and families experiencing mental illness and homelessness.
Essential services are connected within the design of the building. Archways partners with outside service providers to offer adult education, health and wellness, and skill building-classes. Wrap-around case management services are also provided onsite through Orange County’s Health Care Agency. Not only is Archways dedicated to its own tenants, but the project is also committed to serving the surrounding community, with services and facilities open to residents and non-residents alike. Uplifting both residents and neighbors, the project promotes social connectedness and community building.
The impact of Archways cannot be overstated. By providing affordable and supportive housing, the project contributes to the social and economic stability of the entire community. By opening essential services to all, Archways fosters a more inclusive and supportive overall environment, benefiting the entire Santa Ana area.

Design for Economy
Archways was designed to maximize economic efficiency without sacrificing residents’ quality of living. By utilizing energy-efficient systems, the project reduces long-term operational costs. Strategic material choices allow for a stunning, yet economical design. The majority of the exterior design is comprised of budget-friendly plaster but employs bright colors and expansive artwork to infuse the project with an inspired playfulness. Premium materials are used to strategically highlight and accent the design, further contributing to the budget-conscious yet uncompromisingly attractive design.

Design for Energy
Archways is a certified LEED Silver development, surpassing building code requirements by incorporating renewable energy sources such as rooftop solar panels and by utilizing energy-efficient appliances, water-saving fixtures, and sustainable building materials. These systems not only reduce the carbon footprint but also lower energy costs for residents.

Design for Wellness
Archways provides extensive onsite facilities and robust amenities to prioritize holistic wellness and bolster the health of the community. Thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor community spaces enhances the everyday living experience. Outdoor amenities such as walking paths and community gardens, an outdoor play structure, BBQ and picnic areas promote an activated and healthy living environment. Daily life is made easier with an onsite programming team, laundry facilities, computer rooms, resident services. A large community room and multiple roof top decks provide residents spaces to gather and connect.

Completion Date:     7/26/2024

Square Footage:      96665

Building Use:           Affordable housing

Location:                 Santa Ana, CA

City Fabrick

Architecture Design Collaborative

Community Development Partners

Ware Malcomb

EPT Design

Architecture Design Collaborative