NEWLY OPENED MONARCH APARTMENT HOMES ARE REDEFINING AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY LIVING IN PALM SPRINGS
2021 IDA Award-Winning Community Sets New Standard for Urban Living and Sustainable Architecture
Palm Springs, CA – (MARCH 18, 2024) – RealEstateRama – The 60-unit Monarch Apartment Homes complex, which recently opened in Palm Springs, California, has redefined the standard for quality, affordable housing in our communities. Designed under the visionary leadership of Maria Song, AIA, LEED & AP, principal of Interactive Design Corporation (IDC), and developed by Fairfield, CA-based nonprofit affordable housing developer Community Housing Opportunities Corporation (CHOC), this complex sets a new standard for environmentally conscious and economically integrated urban living that truly reshapes the lives of the residents who call this complex their home.
“Our goal was to break away from the linear design typical of urban environments and create a dynamic, inclusive community where residents can truly connect,” says Song. “In this case, our design mimicked the mid-century modern Wexler steel houses found in the surrounding neighborhoods and created a cohesive community in itself—all of which contributes to integrating a wide variety of housing types.”
CHOC celebrated the grand opening of the Monarch— the first affordable housing community to open in the City of Palm Springs in 14 years— just last month. The design philosophy of the state-of-the-art community emphasizes creating spaces that foster comfort and community engagement.
Situated on a 3.62-acre parcel of land owned by the City of Palm Springs Successor Redevelopment Agency, the Monarch Apartment Homes blend seamlessly into the surrounding neighborhood, known for its mid-Century modern design influence. The apartment units surround a central core plaza that blurs the lines between vehicular access and pedestrian pathways, providing residents with a vibrant urban zone for socializing and recreation.
“This development represents a significant milestone in our mission to provide affordable housing solutions that prioritize sustainability and advance community well-being,” remarked Joy Silver, CHOC’s Chief Strategy Officer. “The Monarch’s innovative design and commitment to environmental stewardship sets a new standard for affordable housing in the region, and we look forward to seeing the transformational impact we know it will have on the community; especially as we continue to develop critically needed affordable housing in this region.”
Helping the complex to stay cool in the desert heat is the intentional color usage by Song and her team; accenting the exterior walls with light shades of blue, green, yellow, and orange, thereby further breathing life and warmth into the space while also reducing the likelihood of overheating. Meanwhile, the residential units boast sloping rooftops reminiscent of the graceful wings of the monarch butterfly, symbolizing both elegance and the resilience of the community’s residents as they continue living and working independently. Many of the residents are teachers, baristas, servers, and maintenance workers—the lifeblood of the city often priced out by the high cost of living.
In addition to its innovative architectural design, Monarch Apartment Homes prioritizes sustainability and environmental stewardship. The incorporation of natural desert plants and landscaping helps the community seamlessly blend into its surroundings while conserving water resources.
“We were committed to creating a living environment that not only respects the natural beauty of Palm Springs but also minimizes its ecological footprint,” explains Song. “We are proud to introduce a living environment that not only enriches and dramatically changes the lives of its residents but also respects and preserves the natural beauty of Palm Springs.”
Amenities at the Monarch Apartment Homes cater to the diverse needs of its residents. Many of the units feature a balcony or patio, providing private outdoor space for relaxation and connection. The community building houses a computer classroom, a rental office, and an adjustable lounge area for group functions, creating a sense of belonging and community spirit. The Monarch Park splash pad, a highlight of the complex, offers a refreshing water feature integrated into the main open space adjacent to a children’s play area; intentionally bringing residents together in a pleasurable common space as the community-centric design intends. Additional amenities include a dog park and two BBQ areas, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and social gatherings.
“The intentional design and development of the Monarch Apartment Homes marks a milestone for affordable housing in our great city,” shared City of Palm Springs council member and acting mayor when the community broke ground in 2021, Christy Holstege. “This stunning complex not only addresses the clear need for more affordable housing in our community but also sets a new standard for sustainable, community-centric design. The Monarch’s emphasis on creating vibrant, inclusive spaces reflects our commitment to building a stronger, more connected community for all residents. We are proud to welcome the Monarch Apartment Homes to Palm Springs.”
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About The Community Housing Opportunities Corporation (CHOC)
Founded in 1984, the Community Housing Opportunities Corporation (CHOC) is a non-profit, affordable housing developer based in Fairfield, California, with offices in Palm Springs, that creates and manages equitable communities for individuals, families, seniors, and those with special needs. CHOC believes that economically integrated affordable housing is key to self-sufficiency and is achievable with enriching, supportive programs that give pride to residents, stabilize families, and improve local economies. Visit www.chochousing.org to learn more.
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