The high-density, transit-oriented, mixed-income development is comprised of 147 apartments as well as publicly-oriented common area amenities. The apartments are primarily housed in four, wood-framed stories over a single, semi-subterranean concrete garage with dwelling units aligning the streetscape. Outdoor amenities are provided within the two south-facing courtyards along with a skydeck and sky lounge located on the top floor at the northwest corner of the project, overlooking the Civic Center complex.
Envisioned as an affordable housing community for low- and moderate-income families, the design of the project intentionally and strategically addresses its relationship to key commercial, cultural, institutional, and transportation uses within its surrounding context. Reinforcing the pedestrian-oriented civic and commercial district connectivity and walkability, the site’s Walk Score of 90 qualifies it as a “walker’s paradise”.
Honoring the past by incorporating elements of La Mesa’s architectural heritage as well as those of the greater San Diego area, the transit-oriented development has a contemporary sensibility that pays tribute to the legacy of Irving Gill. With a clearly defined base, middle and top and an architectural cadence reinforced by the repetitive rhythm of stacked balconies, punctuated by two pedestrian plazas, the project creates an activated urban edge befitting of downtown La Mesa.
