Project Data:

Completion Date:     12/23/2020

Square Footage:      58567

Building Use:           Affordable Housing

Project Description:

The .9 acre awkwardly shaped site sits directly adjacent to the Santa Ana Freeway and 17th Street and was the original home to the Aqua Motel. The development is configured as a series of three buildings, two consisting of mostly dwelling units and the third hosting community amenities, on-site management, and spaces for service providers. These interlocking bar-buildings are connected by a series of open walkways, engaging staircases, and elevators where necessary. The open walkways and staircases are designed to maximize residents’ access to natural light and air while maintaining strong visual connections throughout the community. The Casa Querencia Community helps fill a need for permanent housing opportunities for the homeless population of Santa Ana providing nearly 60 dwelling units among a diverse array of amenities, open spaces, and services. The project location is ideally situated among over two dozen public, social and health service providers, most within a ten-minute walk of the Aqua community. Access to public transit on 17th Street and the nearby Main Street, further connect these future residents to the services that can help them seek stability and wellness in their lives.

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

Design for Integration
Casa Querencia’s design prioritizes secure walkability, convenient access, and the connection of residents to the broader community. The buildings are interconnected by open walkways and engaging staircases, maximizing natural light and ventilation while maintaining strong visual connections throughout the community. The landscape design incorporates drought-tolerant and native California plants, creating a lush environment that respects the local semi-arid climate.
Strategic site selection further connects residents to the community and elevates ease of day-to-day life. High walkability and proximity to public transit allow residents increased independence and mobility. Seven different OCTA bus stops sit within a half mile of the project, and many other resources and amenities are located within walking distance. Casa Querencia is situated among over two dozen public, social, and health service providers, most within a ten-minute walk.
Design for Equitable Communities
The driving force of Casa Querencia’s creation is to foster an equitable community, which is evident in every part of the project's highly intentional design. The development is an inclusive community committed to the comprehensive support and overall wellbeing of its tenants.
With the primary goal of serving the locals of Santa Ana, the project design centers on the diverse needs of individuals and families earning 30% and 60% of the area median income. Casa Querencia is specifically designed to service the special needs of individuals living with chronic homelessness including mental and physical disabilities. Property managers, case managers and community service providers are available on-site offering services, classes, and programming for the tenants.
Design for Economy
Casa Querencia 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 building material choice allowed 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
Casa Querencia is a certified LEED Gold 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
Casa Querencia 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. Amenities such as a large lawn area, fitness center, community gardens, and BBQ and picnic areas promote an activated and healthy living environment. Daily life is made easier with an onsite case management and service provider offices, laundry facilities, and a computer room. A large community room, shared dining and living rooms, and both a podium and a roof top deck provide residents spaces to gather and connect.

Completion Date:     12/23/2020

Square Footage:      58567

Building Use:           Affordable Housing

Location:                 Santa Ana, CA

City Fabrick

Architecture Design Collaborative

Community Development Partners

Ware Malcomb

James Dockstader

Weldon Brewster