Lakeview - Seneca Falls Apartment Housing
Seneca Falls, New York
Lakeview Mental Health Services
Winner of 2011 AIA Rochester Design Excellence
Award
In response to the ongoing need for safe, affordable housing in
the Finger Lakes Region, Seneca County advocated for a new 40-unit
apartment residence to be located in historic Seneca Falls, New
York. Serving a mixed-population of individuals and families
with limited income, the 1-and-2-bedroom units also provide those
with special needs the opportunity to live in a supportive
environment, near essential community services.
Taking cues from the region's agricultural architecture and the
historic Seneca Knitting Mill, the building is composed of two,
simple 3-story masses, orthogonally juxtaposed, and connected by a
transparent glass link. The building's setback addresses the
street while the L-shaped plan wraps around a south-facing,
landscaped exterior courtyard.
The glass link clearly delineates the two structures, while
revealing the public spaces of the entrance lobby and common
lounges above. This volume serves as the building's central
organizing element and provides gathering spaces for its
residents.
Abundant natural light permeates the interior, and warm, natural
materials contribute to a therapeutic environment. The
oversized divided-lite windows echo the proportions of those found
on vernacular buildings, while providing views to the courtyard and
rural landscape beyond.
Importance was placed on both sustainability and
affordability. The building's energy efficiency exceeds the
NYS Energy Code requirements by 40 percent. In addition, the
parking space requirements were reduced through a zoning variance
to maximize green space and minimize impervious surfaces. The
project was completed for a total construction cost of $122 per
square foot.