Santa Monica Board Reviews Updated Design for 28-Unit Affordable Housing Project

The Santa Monica Architectural Review Board is currently evaluating updated design plans for a proposed affordable housing complex situated at 1238 7th Street in Downtown. Developer Hankey Capital is behind the project, which envisions a four-story building comprising 28 rental units along with various resident amenities. This iteration of the project reflects a modest increase in density compared to its initial presentation earlier this year.

Ottinger Architects continues to serve as the design firm for the development. According to a staff report, the architectural concept divides the building into two distinct forms through strategic massing breaks and material changes. A narrow, vertical circulation spine, accented with perforated green and metal screens and topped by a canopy, connects these two forms. Hankey Capital acquired this site, among others in Santa Monica, following a default by the previous owner, WS Communities. The company also holds plans for a high-rise residential tower on a nearby parcel at 1524 7th Street. The review of these design adjustments is a key step in advancing the affordable housing initiative.