Sycamore Street Co-Op
Santa Cruz, California

This community was designed with and for lower income families (below 60% median income), so they could comfortably fit into a neighborhood of higher income households. The site was subdivided to create commercial space along a major thoroughfare with the remainder set aside for 60 units of housing, a child-care center for 40 children, and a community facility. The homes are 2-story townhouses above ground floor flats and 3-story townhouses organized around courtyards. Two courtyards with entry gazebos, along with 5 townhouses above the child-care center, face the city street, placing 'eyes on the street'. All courtyards open to a central green, fronted by a building containing the community facilities and coop offices.
Awards
Grand Award for Excellence in Design, Best in American Living Award 1998
Focus on Affordability Award, 1998 Builders Choice
Grand Award, Golden Nugget Awards,1998, Best Multi-Family Housing