Yale Mixed-Use

2024 Residential Design Awards Merit Recipient

Yale Mixed-Use is located in the city of Santa Monica, less than a mile from the Pacific Ocean. The expansive horizontal facade fronts Santa Monica Blvd, one of the city’s major thoroughfares. The building is a composition of white, and the horizontal massing is broken up with a series of cuts that create a rhythmic cadence along the boulevard. The voids define a series of outdoor open spaces that are dispersed throughout the building, the largest of which connects the courtyard to the street. The expansive courtyard is terraced on multiple levels, culminating in a rooftop deck with panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south.

The material palette is one of restraint, featuring various metal panels rendered in shades of white that vary in texture and transparency. In addition to the metal, exposed concrete, steel, and smooth plaster are used throughout. Accent colors of blue and green provide a subtle coastal contrast at the recessed balconies. The building is set back from the street along the boulevard, allowing for an enhanced pedestrian experience. A series of slender steel pipe columns runs the length of the building, distancing the storefront from the street. The columns are ordered and evenly spaced at the west and east corners of the building, becoming increasingly eccentric and playful as they approach the corner of Santa Monica and Yale.

Yale Mixed-Use offers 50 residences (including some affordable units) for the city of Santa Monica, along with over 12,000 square feet of commercial space at the ground level. Two levels of subterranean parking are provided. The highly sustainable building is rich with resident amenities that include lush gardens, lounges, a game room, a gym, and shared office spaces.

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A restrained multi-family project, with a clear material pallet that resisted the temptation to get too clever. The jury admired the straight forward approach to form and materials of this floating metal box with beautiful detailed windows.

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Measure 1: Design for Integration

The Yale mixed-use project in Santa Monica epitomizes design excellence while effectively addressing the city’s pressing need for housing. By seamlessly blending innovative architectural elements with a deep understanding of local needs, our design creates a development that enhances the urban environment and provides vital housing options. Thoughtful use of materials, meticulous attention to detail, and a focus on sustainability ensure that the project not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of design. Offering a diverse mix of residential and commercial spaces, including affordable units, atop 12,000 square feet of commercial area, the project embodies inclusivity and community engagement. It not only enriches the lives of its residents but also fosters a strong sense of belonging within the neighborhood. Overall, the Yale mixed-use project stands as a testament to our commitment to design excellence and our dedication to addressing the urgent need for housing in Santa Monica.

Measure 2: Design for Equitable Communities

The Yale mixed-use project enhances equity among occupants by offering diverse housing options, including affordable units, fostering inclusivity through shared amenities. Improving the site, the project integrates green spaces and sustainable design, promoting environmental resilience. By accommodating mixed-use activities, it bolsters the local economy and community resilience.

Measure 3: Design for Ecosystems

The design for the Yale mixed-use project prioritizes ecosystem enhancement by increasing habitat for local fauna and incorporating native plants. Through thoughtful landscaping and green spaces, the project creates opportunities for wildlife to thrive within the urban environment. Native plants are selected for their ability to support local ecosystems, providing food and shelter for native species while reducing the need for excessive water and maintenance. By integrating these elements into the design, the project not only enhances biodiversity but also contributes to the overall resilience and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.

Measure 4: Design for Water

The design for water management in the Yale mixed-use project is centered on sustainable practices that minimize water consumption and promote efficient use of resources. Through the incorporation of rainwater harvesting systems, greywater recycling, and permeable surfaces, the project reduces reliance on municipal water sources and mitigates stormwater runoff. Additionally, native landscaping and drought-tolerant plants are utilized to further minimize irrigation needs. By implementing these strategies, the project not only conserves water but also contributes to the overall health and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem, demonstrating a commitment to responsible water management practices.

Measure 5: Design for Economy

The project incorporates strategic cost-effective measures that enable the provision of much-needed affordable housing to the community. By optimizing construction techniques, leveraging modular components, and prioritizing efficient material usage, the project minimizes expenses while maintaining quality. Additionally, by incorporating affordable housing units into the development, the project addresses critical community needs without compromising on design integrity. Through these measures, the project demonstrates a commitment to fiscal responsibility and social equity, ensuring that residents have access to high-quality, affordable housing options in Santa Monica.

Measure 6: Design for Energy

The Yale mixed-use project prioritizes energy efficiency by integrating sustainable design features. High-efficiency HVAC systems, solar panels, and LED lighting minimize energy consumption. Passive design strategies, such as natural ventilation and daylighting, further reduce reliance on artificial energy sources. Through these measures, the project not only lowers operating costs but also reduces environmental impact, creating a sustainable and comfortable living environment for residents in Santa Monica.

Measure 7: Design for Well-Being

The design for wellbeing in the project prioritizes human health and comfort through ample courtyard and outdoor spaces, sufficient daylight, and natural ventilation. The project features expansive courtyards and outdoor areas that provide residents with opportunities for relaxation and recreation, promoting physical and mental wellbeing. Large windows and operable units ensure abundant natural light and fresh air in every unit and amenity space, fostering a connection to the outdoors and enhancing indoor air quality. By prioritizing these elements, the project creates a vibrant and healthy living environment that supports the holistic wellbeing of its residents in Santa Monica.

Measure 8: Design for Resources

The project optimizes resource utilization through efficient design and sustainable practices. Utilizing recycled and locally sourced materials, the project minimizes environmental impact and reduces waste. Water-efficient fixtures and landscaping strategies further conserve resources, while energy-saving technologies lower utility consumption. Additionally, modular construction techniques streamline the building process, reducing construction time and costs. Through these measures, the project maximizes efficiency and sustainability, demonstrating a commitment to responsible resource management in Santa Monica.

Measure 9: Design for Change

The project is designed for adaptability and resilience, anticipating future needs and evolving community dynamics. Flexible spaces and modular layouts allow for easy reconfiguration to accommodate changing demands and preferences. Sustainable features and resilient infrastructure ensure longevity and durability, mitigating risks associated with climate change. Additionally, community engagement initiatives foster inclusivity and empower residents to shape their environment. By embracing innovation and flexibility, the project serves as a catalyst for positive change, creating a dynamic and responsive urban environment that meets the evolving needs of Santa Monica’s diverse community.

Measure 10: Design for Discovery

The design for discovery in the Yale mixed-use project extends to outdoor spaces, system management, and timely maintenance operations. Outdoor areas are thoughtfully curated to provide opportunities for residents to connect with nature, promoting wellness and community engagement. Innovative system management technologies optimize efficiency and sustainability, allowing residents to understand and manage their energy and water usage. Additionally, timely maintenance ensures that repairs and upkeep tasks are efficiently addressed, enhancing the overall functionality and lifespan of the development. Through these elements, the project promotes a culture of discovery, sustainability, and efficient building management for residents in Santa Monica.