Madison @ 14th Lets the Outdoors In
Author:Lindsey ShookThe colorful new building features a bold facade with graphic full-height windows and a center core of glass.
Project: Madison @14th Apartments
Location: Oakland
Organization: Affordable Housing Associates, a non-profit developer of low-income and supportive housing throughout the East Bay.
Population Served: 79 apartments and supportive services for low-income residents and former foster youth at risk of becoming homeless.
Architect: Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects
Design highlights: The eight-story building is organized as three stacked primary forms featuring colorful panels and floor-to-ceiling windows. The ground floor has double-height ceilings to accommodate retail and highly efficient parking facilities with auto-lifts. The second floor in enclosed with stepped-back glass walls that let light stream into community rooms, a shared kitchen and garden area, all fostering a greater sense of community. Residences (studios–3 bedrooms) are located on the remaining six stories; Hallways all begin and end with walls of glass, filling the corridors with natural light, fresh air and views. Roof space is split between terrace spaces and an array of photovoltaic panels. Other green features include the use of recycled, recyclable and natural material products and low-VOC adhesives and paints.
Natural woods and warm paint colors are a foil to the more industrial touches such as concrete walls and steel railings.
Plenty of natural light enters the building and common terraces can be found on each floor.
Madison @ 14th Apartments are a colorful addition to the neighborhood.
