Trinity Place

How to introduce housing on a busy, messy, automobile-oriented commercial street in Mission Valley? That was the question asked and solved at Trinity Place – a pioneering 74-unit affordable housing development for chronically homeless seniors. What if the ground floor looked like pedestrian retail or the lobby of a hip boutique hotel? Could the building include a welcoming corner plaza? What if the project announced itself with a big billboard sign – similar to others along Mission Gorge Road? Might strong contrasting colors and a striking folded façade make the project a willing participant in the hustle and bustle?

By contrast – the project successfully creates a variety of quiet, private, and secure outdoor spaces for the at-risk residents. A large central courtyard provides a sunny place to gather, a sky-terrace offers residents a crows-nest retreat with dramatic distant views while a dog run animates a small pocket park along the side street.

This is urban housing with a heart – for its deserving residents and for the neighborhood.