Lincoln Street Student Housing

Designed for a developer in Prescott this project may become the housing for Ecosa students. One of the criteria is that the complex could be sold as apartments or condominiums should the local demand for student housing diminish. The client requested that the building be as sustainable as possible within economic guidelines making the challenge what can be done at market prices. Energy studies using energy-10 were undertaken which showed a considerable reduction in both heating and cooling using passive strategies. Another aim is to bring a sense of shared community spaces to the neighborhood.

A survey and analysis of the neighborhood was completed for this project to determine both its character and the scale. It is an area in transition from small single-family homes to multi family units. The challenge is to insert a project into the area and not overwhelm its sense of scale.

Site Organization was explored to maximize street frontage community space while maintaining privacy for the residents.

The final design incorporated a private central area with a more public street entry area. Sustainable strategies employed include solar hot water and a full analysis of energy using energy-10. This indicated that a 5 degree temperature change for heating and cooling to maintain occupant comfort. The building footprint and design were kept simple as the client budget was critical.

Client and team for the Prescott student apartments. From left to right Phil Brown (client) Sofia Sole, Karen Sonstrom, Austin Dingwall, Sara Desmond and Jose Marion-Landis.

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