Community Overview
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Awarded Affordable Housing Development of the Year by the Silicon Valley Business Journal, this latest affordable housing development is yet another great example of ROEM's contribution to sustainable urban infill. This 4 story, split level garage, 1.6-acre parcel is bounded by four edges of extremely different character: single-families to the east, a residential collector street to the south, retail mixed-use to the west, and a railroad track to the north. Ultimately, the Bella project was able to compliment these existing uses while significantly enhancing the livability of the surrounding community.
To successfully incorporate 88 units of affordable apartments onto this challenging site, designers at ROEM performed thorough area studies before ever heading to the drafting board. Lying within the "Strong Neighborhood Initiative" region as designated by the City, high sensitivity to neighborhood concern was carefully exercised throughout the design and construction process.
To establish an appropriate link to the adjacent single-family neighborhood, surface parking was strategically grouped along the property's eastern edge. Buildings have been set back sufficiently to ensure sunlight into the neighbors' rear yards would not be blocked. To the south, entry stoops serve as friendly architectural elements mirroring front porches of the existing homes across the street. On the west are pedestrian walks connecting the complex to the city public transit system via bus stop on Keyes Street. Residents have found it extremely convenient to access the public transportation system. At the northern boundary, the structure has been protected from railroad noise by utilizing architectural sound walls. Furthermore, circulation corridors are loaded along the railroad facade to act as sound insulation.
The apartments are configured in a courtyard style with the grand community room facing into the central plaza. Though the project is located in the core of a busy urban site, the courtyard remains sheltered within the complex where tot lots, mini par course, and sitting areas are free from traffic and noise. Within the complex, residents and guests can relax and enjoy all the amenities as if they were living in a suburban environment, while maintaining the convenience, character, and practicality of residing near downtown jobs and services.
Bella Castello opened on June 28, 2006 with a waiting list of over 200 applicants. Within 60 days the property was 100% occupied.
