OMA-designed affordable housing completed in San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury

Designed by Netherlands-headquartered architects OMA and San Francisco’s Y.A. Studio, the project was developed by the Tenderloin Neighbourhood Development Corporation (TNDC) and Chinatown Community Development Center (CCDC) for low-income families, formerly unhoused families and young adults.

The eight-storey, 194,000-sq-ft complex was built on a former fast-food site at the intersection of Haight and Stanyan streets near the entrance to Golden Gate Park.

It has been designed to fit in with surrounding historic buildings. Two four-story sections face Haight and Waller streets to the north and south.

Between them is an eight-storey volume that curves inward to create three ground-level courtyards that function as a garden, a children’s play area and a gathering space open to the park.

Of the 160 units, 42 are two-bedroom flats and 40 have three bedrooms, with corner extensions maximising the size of the homes and views over the park.

Jennifer Dolin, TNDC’s chief executive, said: “730 Stanyan reflects the kind of city we all want to live in, one where families can put down roots, young people can begin adulthood with stability, and people who have experienced homelessness have the opportunity to rebuild their lives.”

Bo Han, CCDC’s associate director, said: “730 Stanyan is a truly collaborative project on all levels, with partnerships between nonprofit developers, architects, contractors, funders, and neighbourhood groups.

“As a gateway to Golden Gate Park and an anchor for Haight-Ashbury neighbourhood, known for its free spirit, 730 Stanyan embraces residents of all ages and diverse backgrounds to build community and enhance the quality of life.”

Residents began moving in months ago and the building is now fully occupied.