The essence of this project lies in a profound reflection upon the rich historical narrative of The Portola District. Portola district’s past is a narrative where communal gardens once flourished but were subsequently abandoned, symbolizing a shift from communal values to a focus on private property. This project emerges as an attempt to revive and celebrate the community-centric ethos that defined the area’s earlier days.

This 22 unit affordable apartment complex, is designed to foster a sense of togetherness among its residents. Central to this vision is the incorporation of a garden atrium and a communal outdoor roof garden, serving as communal spaces where inhabitants can converge, interact, and cultivate connections. These green spaces not only pay homage to the abandoned gardens that once stood on this site but also serve as contemporary embodiments of community cohesion and shared experiences.

This project utilizes layers to craft a seamless transition throughout the space. The outer layer features balconies that extend the living spaces of individual units, offering residents a platform to cultivate plants and connect with nature. The organic Voronoi lattice facade wraps around the entire structure and directs visitors and residents to the public inner layer. Here, residents come together to socialize and engage with one another amidst lush greenery, including a green wall that further enhances the natural ambiance. This integration of private and public layers creates a harmonious environment where residents can enjoy both personal retreats and communal interactions.