The Segundo Infill Housing project exemplifies our thoughtful approach to student housing, balancing functional design with the need to create vibrant, sustainable, and safe community spaces. Bounded by existing housing projects this tight infill site required careful examination of solar exposure, circulation and the available surrounding infrastructure. The design weaves the project into the existing site through its placement of buildings, access points, fire safety routes, utility connections, and future development plans.

Building Community Through Thoughtful Design: Enhancing Student Life at UC Davis.

Three primary exterior gathering spaces were identified to foster strong community and social interaction. A central breezeway provides a pedestrian corridor linking adjacent projects and future connections the redevelopment of adjacent properties. The western plaza offers creative seating arrangements for both planned and impromptu meetings, facing the Segundo Quad. The eastern loggia provides a sheltered area for socializing and a waiting spot for parking lot pick-ups and drop-offs. These spaces are connected by an arcade that offers protection from the elements and links interior active spaces with primary circulation paths.

Safety and clear circulation are crucial elements of the design. Pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular traffic are separated to enhance safety, with well-marked crossings and a design that keeps vehicles away from pedestrian and bicycle paths. The surrounding bicycle routes also serve as emergency vehicle access.

Transparent sight-lines improve visibility and perceived safety, with “architectural eyes” adding extra layers of security.

The project embraces ecological stewardship with a planting plan that honors the history of the landscape, integrating a diverse plant palette including California natives and adapted species, ensuring resilience and reduced maintenance needs. Plants significant to the Patwin peoples are featured, enhancing cultural connections. This ecological approach minimizes the need for pesticides and fertilizers, supports local biodiversity, and ensures the landscape is sustainable and pleasant.

The architectural design is driven by the principles of community, sustainability, and student well-being. The building’s image and character reflect its programmatic uses, creating a welcoming environment for first-time students. The design includes features like transparent floor lounges, covered arcades, and window seats, which foster a sense of community and connection. Daylighting and energy-efficient glazing enhance the living experience, while the coherent arrangement of spaces supports the UC Davis Principles of creating supportive, connected, and sustainable places.