The site’s setting has no strong architectural precedent, besides typical strip commercial and light industrial buildings. Materials and finishes take their cue from the industrial influences in the area, in particular the prominent industrial building on Orcutt Road.
Although the emphasis is on density, building footprints are kept small, particularly in the single family homes, to preserve open space and prevent a crowded appearance. The site planning of the development is geared to integrate with and engage the surrounding environs, creating the feeling of a naturally grown addition to the community.
Environmentally-sensitive strategies are employed throughout the project. These include the preservation of the riparian habitat and a stormwater retention system that is recycled for site irrigation. Passive solar strategies are implemented throughout—a solar study analysis was performed to optimize daylighting and reduce solar heat gain. Buildings are shaped and oriented to maximize natural cross-ventilation. Avoiding monolithic structures and breaking up the massing of the site keeps it permeable, conducive to cross ventilation.
