Multi-Family Community Takes on Health of Residents and Environment

Casa Dominguez, a mixed-use development in Los Angeles, was built with neighborhood transformation in mind. The LEED-Platinum complex addresses the needs of low-income families, seniors, and individuals with special needs by providing a sustainable design and programs for community wellness.

"Never before has there been an affordable housing development that includes a health clinic, daycare, and secure, permanent housing for transition-aged youth, in a LEED-certified, energy-efficient building," said Sean Rogan, executive director for the Los Angeles Community Development Commission.

Built by Adobe Communities, a nonprofit real estate developer and architecture firm, Casa Dominguez houses many initiatives to better its residents’ lives:

• The Children's Collective pre-school provides on-site day care options and after school programs.
• The St. John's Well Child and Family Center answers medical, dental, and mental health needs of the uninsured and economically disadvantaged.
• A full-time resident services coordinator and computer lab instructor are available for after-school tutoring, college preparatory courses, career counseling, computer training, and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes.
• A holistic program with information on green living, seminars on energy uses, and tutorials on energy-efficient appliances has also been made available to residents.
• Rent ranges are 43-70% lower than comparable units.
• The California-friendly landscaping is irrigated by a gray-water irrigation system.
• An 84.87 kW (DC) solar energy system provides for 100% of the energy needs in common areas.
• All units have ENERGY STAR appliances and low-E windows, and residents can track their energy consumption using a video monitor detailing the property's energy usage.

"By giving residents well-designed, healthy, and sustainable places to live and following through with programs to address their needs, we are in effect revitalizing a neighborhood," says Robin Hughes, president of Abode Communities.