Notre Dame Plaza is the adaptive re-use of the historic 1907 Notre Dame High School into 66 units of HUD 202 affordable senior housing. The transformation of the Notre Dame building called for modifying the existing structure and grounds while respecting the historical overlay district and diverse community. The resulting project is a light filled, active environment for the new residents that takes advantage of generous ceiling heights and tall windows. Existing buildings and grounds were preserved along with the new construction of courtyards, accessways, a new lobby, community room, gardens, reading areas, a two story skylighted aviary and installation of new building systems. All historic elements were preserved while maximizing the amount of units that could fit comfortably into the existing building.
VISION
Create a light filled, active environment for a new community of residents that respects the building’s historic nature.
PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
Modify the existing structure and grounds to meet new use while respecting the historical overlay district and diverse community
DESIGN FEATURES
- Restoration of building facade
- Creation of new accessible entry for residents
- Utilization of generous ceiling heights and tall windows
- Installation of new building systems
- Restore and enhance public spaces
PROJECT INFORMATION
- Client: Catholic Charities (now, Mercy Housing California)
- Building size/acres: 53,000 sq.ft./ 1.75 acre
- Density: 66 units
- Completion: August 1997
- Construction est.: $6.3M
Renovation and Adaptive Re-Use Experience
VMWP has extensive experience with renovation, rehabilitation and adaptive re-use projects, including historic rehabs for senior housing, master plans for church and worship support space along with new housing, office and motel conversions, and more practical renovations for affordable housing.
We are a pragmatic design team that thinks out of the box to create innovative, cost effective solutions. We look beyond the existing conditions, to achieve a better solution – uncoupling the potential from the limitations.
Senior Housing
At VMWP, we are experts in designing senior housing, creating safe, affordable, and restorative environments tailored to meet their unique needs. VMWP’s senior housing projects often integrate on-site medical care and comprehensive social services, addressing the complex health and well-being needs of older adults. By applying health-focused design principles, we promote physical and mental well-being, allowing residents to access a continuum of care on site. We understand how the design of physical spaces influences identity, self-worth, and dignity, empowering seniors to live comfortably and with greater independence.