Located between the neighborhoods of Hillcrest and University Heights in San Diego, this mixed-use apartment building is designed by Jonathan Segal, FAIA. Park & Polk offers lofts for rent, office studios, low-income affordable units, and ground-floor retail spaces. This building is designed in the shape of an “H”.
Apartment
The site of this apartment building sat unoccupied as a fenced dirt lot for almost 10 years until the architect acquired the land of the site. This building features 7 office studios. 43 residential lofts for rent, ground-floor retail spaces, and 4 low-income affordable units. The residents also can enjoy a large outdoor common area on the rooftop of the building, including expansive views of the city, olive trees, and a BBQ.
Structure
This apartment building is designed in the shape of an “H” to allow natural light to flood easily into all units from many angles. This shape also can create stunning exterior views for all residents. The building cube form is made by connecting the “H” legs to each other. This connection is done by using bridges spanning 80 feet nearly.
Details
All hallways of this apartment building have natural lighting and ventilation and its core power usage is offset by large solar panels on the rooftop fully. There is also a massive above-ground planter on the north side dedicated to the olive tree that filters all water and natural drought-tolerant grasses.
Park & Polk Gallery
Photography: Jonathan Segal FAIA