This project replaces an aging residential hotel near downtown San Jose with 60 new efficiency apartments. The units serve extremely low-income residents with developmental disabilities. The plan is very sophisticated and tightly controlled with a lovely, rich hierarchy of public and private spaces. Vegetation is well integrated into the building, with a green roof—the city’s first—installed to reduce stormwater runoff and provide thermal insulation. Its presence also softens the form. The LEED Gold sustainability strategy is well thought out and innovative.

Casa Feliz Studios / San Jose, California

This project replaces an aging residential hotel near downtown San Jose with 60 new efficiency apartments. The project serves extremely low income tenants (20 to 35% AMI) with 21 units set aside for residents with developmental disabilities. On-site tenant support services are provided and facilitate communication between residents and property management.

The materials and color palette (reminiscent of John Clancy’s work) are outstanding, adding to the richness without looking cheap. The design breaks down the massing to meet the street in a very humane fashion that is rhythmic and appealing, creating four faces instead of two.
It is very contextually sensitive, creating a real community feel, and very well done.

John M. Clancy Award jury comments