Bill Sorro Community
Architect: Kennerly Architecture & Planning
Owner: Mercy Housing California
Location: San Francisco, California
Category: Multifamily Housing (category three)
The Bill Sorro Community reanimates a tough abandoned corner in San Francisco’s Sixth Street Lodging-House Historic District, with 67 apartments for low-income families and developmentally disabled adults, including restaurant and retail spaces. The project involved partnerships with the community to reflect on the historic and unique qualities of the neighborhood, and the mission of Bill Sorro, an endeared community leader. The building’s design resonates with the neighborhood’s distinctive character, enhances its’ vibrant mix of uses, and preserves affordability. With a GreenPoint Rating of 127 points, the building provides energy efficiency, air-quality, storm-water management, and grey-water re-use. These sustainability strategies were integral in the design goal to provide a healthier environment to live and work, and reduce ongoing costs to make funds available for other uses. Residential amenities include private balconies, a roof garden, laundry rooms, day-lit corridors, indoor bike room, landscaped courtyard, and flexible spaces for offices, exercise and gatherings.