The Creston Avenue Residence is a model of mixed finance with robust programming and a design worthy of the bold, new funding stream that made it possible. As the first development using MRT funds to open in New York City, The Housing Collaborative and Volunteers of America –Greater NY layered money from the new program with Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, State bond financing, grants from HHAP and The Federal Home Loan Bank and a commercial loan. In addition to the capital dollars, supportive service and operating funds come from OMH and the VA.
Designed to achieve LEED Platinum status, the Creston Avenue Residence exceeds funder efficiency requirements in pursuit of the top-level sustainability. That energy efficient green technology has been leveraged to keep operating costs down, critical for supportive housing. The project’s high-efficiency boiler, PTAC units, Energy Star windows, insulation and solar panels are all expected to generate substantial savings in the operating budget. In fact, the solar panels may fund as much as 90% of the common area electric. This amounts to an additional subsidy for supportive housing.
The 66 apartments (21 studios, 12 one-bedrooms, 32 two-bedrooms and two-bedroom Super’s unit) are split between those set aside for residents who qualify for supportive services and affordable housing open to the general public. An industry trend, integrated housing such as this helps to limit the stigma often attached to buildings and residents and better connects vulnerable special needs populations to the sources of support around them. That effort includes a lobby display of real-time local public transportation options, helping residents navigate their community while encouraging an active and sustainable lifestyle.
Set amongst buildings half the size and nearly 80 years older, the 10-story brick and metal structure reflects the neighborhood’s past and offers a vision of its future. Divided into three masses, with an inset central portion that includes the main entrance, the design embraces surrounding style. The brick sections are consistent in both material and proportion with the adjacent properties and setbacks at the 6th, 9th and 10th floors obscure the height of the structure and limit the shadows it casts. The metal panels across the middle and top of the building also lessen the apparent size, reading as comparatively light in weight. They work in tandem with large windows creating reflections that brighten the façade.
Front facing windows are fitted with sunshades – a green design staple – that repeat the form, façade layering and even cast shadows of fire escapes. It is a contemporary take on a traditional element that will mark the buildings of our time.
The property’s downward slope keeps the first floor apartments off the ground and allows the basement, with laundry and community rooms, to open onto a landscaped courtyard. There, walls and seating create the contours of gardens that form distinct spaces balancing light and shade, play and retreat.
Material choices define a sophisticated aesthetic, illustrate a dedication to quality and affirm the value of this housing. The building is a compliment to its neighborhood, an iconic iteration.
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