Cal Poly Pomona

Our concept emerged in response to the California Housing Crisis and environmental concerns prevalent in the construction sector. Cal Poly Pomona’s Team Roots envisions a residence that not only embodies principles of social interaction, inclusivity, empathy, and sustainability but also reimagines communal living on a big scale. Our design concept focuses on the synergy between two distinct demographic cohorts – the youth and the seniors – forging a dynamic and symbiotic multi-generational community. The younger generation stands to gain from the wisdom, experience, and assistance of their elder counterparts while the seniors find solace, care, and a sense of belonging that augments their emotional well-being. At the onset of the design process, we meticulously considered parameters to optimize the residence’s functionality, habitability, convenience, and comfort, thereby attaining a harmonious living environment for its inhabitants.

Functionality was achieved by separating the private and social spaces within the house. The open-concept kitchen and living area serve as the welcoming heart of the home, embracing the ingress and egress of occupants while seamlessly integrating internal and external spaces. This strategic arrangement fosters a convivial ambiance and cultivates connections between residents and their guests. Conversely, the private spaces are discreetly placed, accessible via a corridor that establishes a private division between distinct home environments. Flexibility reigns with a versatile flex room, adaptable to suit an array of homeowner requirements.

Habitability was established through a detailed climate analysis, enabling precise placement of shading elements and fenestration. This configuration optimizes passive heating and cooling mechanisms, ensuring a thermally efficient interior year-round. Our ethos of inclusivity extends to adaptable design guidelines by accommodating the diverse needs of homeowners.

Convenience is woven into the community through a pedestrian-centric neighborhood, complete with an on-site produce garden fostering shared experiences. Purposeful spaces cater to the recreation and wellness pursuits of both a mature and youthful populace. The community center encompasses a multipurpose space offering educational programs, childcare services, and storage provisions. Just outside of the community center are amenities, including a small parking area for visitors and a designated space for our four-legged companions.

Comfort emanates from an architecturally calibrated scale, providing the homeowner with a unique connection to their home. Abundant natural lighting illuminates the interiors, invigorating the living spaces with vitality. Adequate cross-ventilation enriches the home, imbuing it with serene natural airflow and an atmosphere conducive to relaxation, productivity, and the general well-being of occupants.

Features

• 1008sf home – small footprint
• Consolidated wet areas.
• Pergolas with movable panels to ensure privacy when needed.
• Outdoor kitchen bar by the main entrance.
• Open plan concept.
• Clearstory to provide natural light and ventilation.
• Cross ventilation
• Massive picture window by the dining space.
• Pocket door opening to the back patio.
• Generous outdoor patio.
• Water feature with a living green wall.
• Modern floor to ceiling window.
• Custom cabinetry.
• WaterSense – certified fixtures
• EV Charger.
• Edible garden
• Fog catcher.
• Rain barrel collecting rain water.
• Leapfrog grey system
• Solar panel
• EnergyStar appliances
• LED lighting
• Native landscape
• ADA flexible