Best mixed use seniors housing design for Global Awards shortlisted
NEW YORK: The shortlist for the best mixed use seniors housing design has been declared.
Over 250 designs have been considered by the awards secretariat. One of the finalists in this category is shown above.
The Independence Library and Apartments
Chicago, Illinois
In 2016, the city of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development sponsored a design competition to create three hybrid buildings combining affordable housing with public library branches. The most recently completed of the three, Independence Library and Apartments, was designed by Chicago-based John Ronan Architects for Evergreen Real Estate Group and contains 44 apartments reserved for tenants who are 62 and older above a two-story library. Opened in 2019, the six-story building’s library block features extensive glazing and meets the sidewalk. The residential block above steps back from the street edge.
Windows of different sizes and colorful recessed balconies, staggered in different rhythms, enliven the street-facing facades. The residential portion includes 36 one-bedroom apartments, eight two-bedroom apartments, a fitness room, and an office for management. The library occupies a large community room. A roof garden conceals surface parking from view for residents and provides accessible outdoor space.
The Global Award winner will be announced in December in London. (Globals)