The design-build team of SVA Architects and J.H. Fitzmaurice recently joined Jefferson Union High School District (JUHSD) in Daly City, California for the district’s Centennial Celebration and grand opening of 705 Serramonte, an affordable housing community specifically for district faculty & staff. JUHSD is the first K-12 school district to pass a bond exclusively to build an affordable housing community for teachers and staff. The $75 million project received $33 million in bond funds provided by the passage of Measure J in June 2018. The pioneering development unites SVA’s dual strengths of partnering with educational institutions and designing affordable housing communities. Throughout the summer, staff have been moving into the community in preparation for the fall semester, which began this week on August 9.
The 705 Serramonte community consists of 122 apartment homes, with 59 one-bedroom, 56 two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom units. Homes range from 560 square feet to 1,174 sq. ft., with rental rates set at 50% of market rate at the time of occupancy. Homes feature vinyl plank flooring, stainless steel appliances and generous windows with abundant light. Community spaces include a community lounge, a fitness center and a central, landscaped courtyard with children’s play structures, barbecue area and ample seating.
Nathan Herrero, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Principal at SVA Architects, said, “SVA’s vision was to design homes and community spaces that feel like a market-rate, luxury development. Along with the District, we wanted to honor the critical work of educators by offering comfortable spaces that feel like a haven at the end of the day.”
