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Thursday, March 29th the U.S. Vets Initiative, Coachella Valley Housing Authority, and local government officials celebrated the March Veteran’s Village grand opening in Riverside, California. This supportive housing facility designed by Danielian Associates Architecture + Planning and built by Brown Construction features bold, iconic architecture and a service-rich environment to house and care for our military veterans.
“The entire Danielian Team is extremely proud of this project, both from a design standpoint and that we are helping to solve the housing crisis for our US military veterans,” said Mike Boyd, AIA, Principal at Danielian Associates. “To be able to design a comprehensive housing and service facility for people who serve our country is beyond gratifying.”
The complex was planned and designed to create a walkable, campus-like setting that will provide a nurturing, rehabilitative environment. By providing housing, meals, and career training counseling for veterans, the goal for this project is to help the transition back into civilian life as smooth as possible. The housing component is comprised of three different programs: the Veterans in Progress program provides short-term dorm style housing with on-site counseling for high-risk veterans; the efficiency program provides single room occupancy units for veterans who are being re-trained for the job market or for those who have found work but need low cost housing; and the third component accommodates the families of veterans who are also in need of low cost housing. The community has been designed to be LEED Certified.
About U.S. Vets
U.S. Vets is the nation’s largest nonprofit provider of housing and supportive services. They are dedicated to assisting in the transition of veterans and their families by providing housing, counseling, career development and comprehensive support. For more information, please visit https://www.usvetsinc.org/
2018 International Code Updates
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It was nearly this time last year that architects with California projects were scrambling to complete construction documents in order to submit building permit applications by December’s end. This effort was based on the expectation, or perhaps the fear of the unknown, by builders of the anticipated adoption by local jurisdictions of the 2016 Title 24 California Building Standards Code and the potential negative impacts that may occur if projects were submitted under the new code.
In many cases this concern was not founded on a projected cost analysis or potential schedule impacts relative to the proposed new code changes, but rather a general reaction to the onslaught of news and rumors of new stringent requirements leading to the “net zero” energy mandate for residential construction by the year 2020. Architects could have simply advised their clients to ignore the pending code change; based on the fact that the new code was enabling builders to construct homes with increased energy efficiency and greater sustainability. At the end of the day, we have an obligation to our builder and developer clients to realize their project vision, goals, and successfully achieve them within the previously agreed upon framework. It is certainly not a prudent business practice to assume or advise for a future risk without definitively knowing what impacts the new code may have on a project, including lost schedule time and additional costs for redesign.
It is beneficial to know the relationship between the two codes, since builders using either code can learn from previous issues of the other code. The International Codes serve as the “Model Code” that is adopted or amended by governing jurisdictions at the state and/or local levels. The “Title 24 California Code of Regulations”, which regulates the construction industry in California, uses this model code to derive and publish the California Building Standards Code (CBSC). As an aside, the term “Title 24” is often misused in the industry to refer strictly to the energy calculations, but that is an error.
Both the International Code and the CBSC cycles currently run every three years and are updated quarterly. The CBSC is issued in the year prior to the International issue. As it may appear that the CBSC is one year behind, it can also be perceived as being two years ahead. Thus, as the cycles continue to leap frog each other, some code changes pioneered in a Title 24 code cycle will find their way into the next International Code cycle, and vice versa.
We now find ourselves here in November and the 2018 International Codes are scheduled for official release by the International Code Council (ICC) with pending adoption by local jurisdictions starting January 1, 2018. I suspect some home builders are currently scrambling to complete and submit construction documents for same reasons I mentioned above. However, before you press the panic button and while waiting for the ICC to officially release their “Significant Changes” publications, here is a brief overview of some of the architecturally significant code changes you will find in the 2018 International Residential Code.
• Common walls between townhouse units shall be constructed as two separate 1-hour rated walls, or a 1-hour rated wall (sprinklered); or 2-hour rated wall (non-sprinklered). No vents or plumbing stacks are allowed if it is constructed as a single wall.
• Exceptions for membrane penetration firestopping expanded to include listed light fixtures in ceilings.
• The minimum fire separation distance for a non-sprinklered, 1-hour rated exterior wall has been reduced from less than 5 feet to 0 feet.
• Detailed design parameters replace generic ones for glass baluster guards.
• New exceptions are provided to eliminate emergency egress from sprinklered basements.
• Mezzanine design expanded to “1/2 of room below” from 1/3 ratio when sprinklered.
• Exterior wood decks shall be constructed of preservative treated or naturally decay resistive lumber.
• Expanded structural design requirements for deck posts and foundations.
• Seismic structural design provisions added to allow for application of two-story stone veneer.
• Expanded requirements added for roof ventilation, vapor barriers and vapor diffusion.
• New criteria added for provision of underlayment requirements for photovoltaic shingle roofing and for provision of building-integrated photovoltaic roof panels.
• New section to add provision of insulated shields in factory built chimneys when passing through insulated assemblies.
• Log homes now added to exception for compliance with prescriptive thermal envelope design requirements.
• New criteria added for installation of R-30 roof/ceiling batt installation to eliminate compression of insulation.
• R-5 insulation to be expanded to cover entire heated slab area instead of slab edge only.
• Maximum allowable fenestration U-factors are decreased in Climate zones 3 through 8.
• Ductwork in attics are required to be insulated or buried within insulation or entire attic shall be insulated.
• Maximum energy rating index values reduced for all climate zones.
With a look back to the 2016 CBSC release and a little bit of due diligence, we can (hopefully) prevent any panic associated with the impending International Codes updates and make more informed decisions on whether there are any advantages associated with rushing to obtain building permits.
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As a designer and as a part of the larger architectural team here at Danielian Associates, we are guided by a design philosophy that believes buildings should speak to people and engage their emotions. We continually strive to create spaces where memories and stories are created with respect to sustainability and the authenticity of the community.
One exciting example of this altruistic design philosophy is the March Vets Village in Riverside, California. This project is a joint venture between the US Vets Initiative and the Coachella Valley Housing Authority that had started back in 2010. After years of funding challenges, the project finally achieved its ground breaking last year and truly exemplifies the definition of teamwork. Now well into construction, the facility will ultimately provide housing to homeless and/or at risk veterans as part of a transitional program that will including counseling, support services, and training for individuals as well as families.
The design ideology was derived from its contextual relationship to the historic March Air Force Base – in recognition of service and patriotism alongside a symbolic nod to rebirth and flight. An iconic wing element in the central building serves as a focal point to the campus and highlights the entrance, as most of the programs and services will be located within that space. In conjunction with the architectural authenticity, the project is adhering to sustainable building practices under the guidance of Green Dinosaur, Inc. who is providing the sustainable consulting services, program administration, energy modeling, verification, rating, and building commissioning. March Veterans Village is targeting LEED for Homes Silver Certification, thanks to advanced framing techniques, exceeding T-24, high performance fenestration, ample daylighting, high efficacy lighting, low flow water usage fixtures, and an effective waste management and recycling plan that will reduce construction waste by a minimum of 50%. The landscape architecture was designed to significantly reduce water usage for the entire site while enhancing the design elements of the building themselves. California native and drought tolerant plant palettes were selected to compliment the colors and materials of the buildings. Additional plantings next to the buildings provide shade and help shield the building from heat during the hot afternoon sun.
Danielian Associates recently wrapped up another sustainable housing project for a US Vet, the ABC 3.0 Green Home in Fullerton. This is just scratching the surface and represents only a small percentage of what we can potentially do. There is still so much to be done to help our US Veterans, the opportunity to provide quality housing is just a very small piece of the puzzle. Reflecting on the well-deserved families and individuals that will have their needs met by the March Veterans Village, I am concerned with the countless others that are still very far from that realm of housing opportunities. I look forward to the day with this story will perhaps come full circle, when the support these deserving families receive ultimately enables them to qualify for their own home. Until that day we will continue collaborating on veterans housing projects and designing sustainable, affordable housing opportunities.
March Veterans Village Project Team
US Veterans Initiative – Owner
Coachella Valley Housing Coalition – Developer
Danielian Associates – Architect
Brown Construction, Inc. – General Contractor
Primus Building Solutions – Construction Management
Urban Resource – Civil Engineer
Urban Arena – Landscape Architect
Gouvis Engineering – Structural + MEP
Green Dinosaur – Energy / LEED Consultant
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Truly, all things in life come full circle.
Nothing could be more accurately said, especially when it comes to Danielian Associates. DA has a rich history among California’s architectural elite. The firm’s founder, Art Danielian, FAIA, began his career working for Ed Fickett who pioneered many of the design concepts collectively known as Mid-Century Modern.
Today the firm is being led by a new generation of architects and planners. Staying true to their roots, the Danielian Team is leveraging their extensive history with this increasingly popular design style and crafting its own “modern” spin on modern design. “Everyone loves contemporary design right now and we often talk about transitional styles, so it is probably very fitting that our firm itself is in a transition phase” said John Danielian, Principal of Danielian Associates. “We have a great team of very experienced designers and lots of young talent in our office. In collaboration with our wonderful clients, Danielian Associates will have a great showing at this year’s PCBC Gold Nugget Awards – but it is truly just the tip of the iceberg. We have lots of very exciting projects in the works,” John said with a big smile.
Before anything is sketched or designed at the Danielian office, every project begins with a story and authenticity is key. “Design is a special process fueled by personal experiences and the emotional connection we have to spaces and surroundings,” said Dale Patton, Director of Residential Design at Danielian Associates. “The story behind each project guides the design and the special experiences we strive to create within each building.”
The ABC Green House 3.0
Built by Habitat for Humanity, designed by Danielian, and developed by Peninsula Publishing, this project took on a special meaning from the start with its future owner slated to be a military veteran. The City of Fullerton required that the home pay homage to local Eichler-styled homes and Mid-Century Modern roots. Skillfully led by Senior Designer and Associate Louis Bretana, the Danielian team jumped at the challenge.
A nod to mid-century modern vernacular paired with new building technology, the home has a small footprint yet it still achieves California style outdoor living with the deck off the upstairs family room designed as a roof garden. The multi-generational component acknowledges the challenges of affordable housing for an increasing number of families. The accessible adaptable unit was designed to allow for separation and privacy. The high ceilings, strategic window placement, and roof lines serve to collect rain water in the rainy winters and facilitate passive cooling in the warm summer months.
Designed with sustainability in mind, much of the building materials were locally sourced, repurposed, and/or donated. In addition, the home was staged using “healthy” and sustainable materials and furnishings, much of which was donated or reused. Incorporating mid-century modern architecture with new building technology, this affordably built NZE ready home is targeting LEED Platinum, Energy Star, Indoor Air Plus, Water Sense, and will be the first home certified under the Wellness Within Your Walls in California.
Clark Commons
Jamboree Housing had an incredible corner location in Buena Park for their Clark Commons project. The challenge presented to the design team was that it would be located within a surrounding, market rate master planning community also being developed. This amenities-rich, 70-unit apartment complex now provides safe, affordable housing for local families with seamless integration into the master planned community. Edging a major urban revitalization district, this project’s creative design balances vibrant, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes with a contemporary design flair and commercial aesthetics, like double volume storefront windows.
The client’s primary goal was to encourage advancements in academic achievement, career development, and an increased quality of living for this community. Leading the Danielian design team was Principal Mike Boyd, AIA and Senior Project Manager and Associate Mojgan Momenan. A large, collaborative team effort produced inviting open floor plans with private outdoor decks and flexible living spaces. These energy efficient, LEED GOLD, affordable housing units introduce market-rate quality apartments for the surrounding hospitality, retail, restaurants, and auto repair shop workforce. A new public park borders first floor apartments allotting direct access via front stoops so mothers can supervise their children during playtime. Private amenities include a podium level tot lot, outdoor seating, barbecues, fire pits, and picnic tables that will encourage family and community interaction. A job skills center is located within the ground floor retail component along with a culinary arts program, student café, after-school tutoring, and community assistance for both resident and non-resident use.
The District
GHA Companies selected Danielian Associates to design a modern take on the quintessential Desert Contemporary home. The challenged presented to the design team focused around strong architectural theming, as that was going to be a primary sales driver since these homes were being marketed to snowbirds and buyers seeking desert living lifestyle. In addition to the modern design, the plans had to feature a diverse and appealing street scene, open floor plans to allow for ample entertaining spaces, and flexibility to plot certain plans on both interior and corner lots – all within small lot footprints. Extensive client collaboration led by the Danielian design team led to these award-winning designs, headed up by Associate and Senior Designer Tom Wong and Senior Associate and Senior Designer Joe Digrado, AIA.
This desert modern architecture compliments the site context and the open floor plan with indoor/outdoor living elements allow ample room for entertaining. By bringing the outside in within this small footprint, the home lives larger and make the interior spaces feel extra special. A first floor private bedroom is perfect for guests or multi-generational living. The master suite has a private deck with an extra-large closet and luxurious appointed bath while a secondary master suite is strategically positioned for scenic mountain views. The interior and exterior stylings flow seamlessly, bringing a cohesive contemporary design element and feel throughout.