808 Alameda is a 87 unit townhome development in the San Francisco Bay Area. With an approximate footprint of 2,500 sf per unit, and situated in groups of 4-5 buildings across the property, the overall layout creates a neighborhood dynamic activated by the tranquil characteristics of the pastoral site. In addition to offering residents comfortable dwellings and opportunities for recreation, the high-performance residences will administer communal benefits for the entire San Carlo community.

This project thrives on the historic vitality of the abundant natural landscape, in a literal sense and for the community’s well-being. The act of reserving half of the site through design; trees, trails, and landscape features, is a testament to this quality. Preservation of the natural landscape promotes opportunities for recreation along with relaxation, promoting walking, biking and the use of public transit for accessing local amenities nearby. Recreational community areas and open space complement the landscape contour and historic natural spring on site.

The design utilizes a panelized system, with defining aesthetic features such as HPS siding on the facade and perforated steel screens to shed dappled lighting patterns within interior spaces. Residents will have access to their respective roof space, guarded by steel and glass railings at the top. The homes will be surrounded by bioretention areas and planters, rock lined drainage channels, board formed concrete retaining walls, and wood timber steps. In addition, the landscape design will preserve the majority of existing trees, while introducing new tree species, shrubs and grasses, and wetland plants.