Shattuck Senior Homes

Location: Berkeley, CA
Developer: Affordable Housing Associates
Completion: October 1998

The four-story, 27-unit affordable housing development, constructed on a 6,000 sf site in downtown Berkeley, realizes efficiencies in design to create a lively, comfortable living environment for low to very-low income seniors. The building also makes a contribution to its urban neighborhood – on a major boulevard in the heart of a university town, close to shopping, movie theaters and public transportation.

The design incorporated opportunities for significant cost savings, focusing on the structural system, materials and major services. A major move involved eliminating interior corridors and circulation space relatively expensive to construct and often unpleasant areas with poor air quality. The design give residents their own “front” door and provide a refreshing link to the outdoors. Abundant indoor-outdoor spaces add to the feeling of spaciousness and lightness.

A simplified approach to framing, mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems freed up money for enrichment details the seniors and their neighbors can enjoy. While the building presents a formal, dignified façade on Shattuck Avenue, the sides of the building are more playful, painted brightly in yellow with an asymmetrical physical design and inventive metal sun shades. On the fourth-floor, a hardwood deck overlooks San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge beyond.

Awards + Publications
AIA East Bay Merit Award Shattuck Senior Homes. Berkeley, CA

National Council on Seniors’ Housing, Honorable Mention, Shattuck Senior Homes. Berkeley, CA

Gold Nugget Awards, Merit Award, Best Multi-Family Project, Shattuck Senior Homes. Berkeley, CA

Gold Nugget Awards, Merit Award, Best Affordable Housing Project, Shattuck Senior Homes. Berkeley, CA

Berkeley Design Advocates Award - Affordable Housing, Shattuck Senior Homes. Berkeley, CA

Building Design & Construction, February issue “Give Me Shelter”, Shattuck Senior Homes. Berkeley, CA