850 Turk

Seizing an opportunity provided by California Surplus Land Act, 850 Turk will replace an existing two-story Employment Development Department (EDD) parking structure with 92 affordable family homes.

This project exemplifies inclusive and human-centered design, in which every decision—from massing and programming to equipment and finish selections—prioritizes community; access to nature, daylight and air; generosity; and autonomy and ease of use.

The design is characterized by permeability, open circulation, and the idea of fresh air and flow—easy visual and physical connections between spaces. A linked series of courtyards is carved into the building mass, leading from an entry courtyard through an open-air lobby into a sunken courtyard with plants cascading down from above. A stack of open air bridges—the residential circulation—is visible through the dramatic entry portal and allows residents to overlook the courtyard while moving through the building. An expansive eighth-floor roof deck tops the building, with a shared laundry room placed to allow visual and physical connection to the landscaped outdoor space and city views while clothes are in the machines.

The ground floor is dedicated to resident spaces, including a community room, service offices, and an after-school program. 

850 Turk’s central location is rich with walkable community amenities, extensive public transit, and car- and bike-share services. The design further supports family transport needs with multi-purpose mobility storage rooms that can accommodate electric and cargo bikes and  storage lockers for travel items that don’t easily fit in homes—such as scooters, kids’ bikes, car seats for car share, and safety gear for public bikes and scooters.