MacDonald Architects engaged in a design-bid-build contract for the site planning and design for 14 residential town homes, 3 second floor lofts, and adapting 4500 square feet of commercial space for new uses.  The 1-acre site is a corner lot with northeasterly views of the San Francisco Bay.  This has enabled MacDonald Architects to take advantage of a unique design opportunity to create a strong neighborhood identity; a vital planning goal for corner lots.  The project design also gives a visual preference to pedestrians, and streetscape appurtenances such as stoops, awnings, and landscaping.  However, by moving the parking to the interior of the site, not only were more than the required number of parking spaces appropriated, but the net result was an increased availability of on-street parking.  This is a result of reducing of required curb cuts. MacDonald Architects has also influenced the project by promoting the use of sustainable building materials such as the use of porous pavers along all the drive aisles.

The project is a unique addition to the community as a mixed-use development in a residentially zoned neighborhood, and therefore was required to gain City Planning and City Council approval for PD zoning.  This has extended the normal design time for a project of this scope but will result in higher density and more efficient development in terms of land use.  The design of the project encourages communities that value pedestrians and social living, and has not been denied any of the required governmental approvals thus far.

The planning process of this project includes working within the constraints of the urban context, working closely with neighborhood and governmental agencies, designing efficient yet practical habitable and outdoor spaces, and employs the use of “green” building technology and planning to promote sustainable community living.