Oakland apartments: sustainable, but affordable, too

Sam Oches, Editorial Intern

August 11, 2010

Located in downtown Oakland, Calif., the Madison @ 14th Apartments offer 59 affordable housing units for low-income families and 20 units for former foster care youth who have reached adulthood. Photos: Jay W. schneider

The $30 million Madison @ 14th Apartments, located in downtown Oakland, Calif., opened its doors in June as a sustainable mixed-use development.
Designed by Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects, San Francisco, and developed by Affordable Housing Associates, Berkeley, the eight-story, 79,000-sf rental complex incorporates 2,700-sf of ground-floor retail



	Rooftop photovoltaic panels will provide 35-40% of the building’s energy, while high-efficiency lighting will help minimize energy usage.

space with 59 affordable housing units for low-income families and 20 units for former foster care youth who have reached adulthood.
Green features include photovoltaic solar panels that provide 35-40% of the building's energy; high-efficiency lighting; and a hydronic heating system that provides hot water and space heat. Recycled nylon carpet, durable carpet tiles, and linoleum floors made from linseed oil and cork (with a 40-year life-span) were specified. About 75% of the project's construction waste was recycled. The project was designed to meet LEED Silver, although cost considerations are keeping the developer from seeking official certification.

Other distinctive design elements include a central core seismic structural system that allows for maximum flexibility and large window openings and a structured garage outfitted with a Wöhr Autopark Systeme, a concealed, triple-stacked system that allows more cars to be parked in a smaller area. Gaining approval for the parking structure required significant negotiation with the city of Oakland.