KTGY Designs Affordable Housing for Jamboree in Irvine

By Anuradha Kher, Online News EditorIrvine, Calif.–The Granite Court Apartment Homes in Irvine, Calif. are all set to open this July. Designed by KTGY GROUP, INC., Architecture and Planning and developed by Jamboree Housing Corp., Granite Court is an affordable housing community for families earning between 30 percent and 60 percent of the area median income. Granite Court features 71 units with 20 one-bedroom, 20 two-bedroom, and 31 three-bedroom apartments. Granite Court is situated on 1.23 acres in the city’s urban core at 2853 Kelvin Ave. in Irvine with a design that’s green, smart growth, modern, compact, with four stories of residential living atop two levels of underground parking. Residents have access to common areas, including a well-landscaped central courtyard with a tot lot and shaded seating/dining areas and barbecues, a large community center with fitness room, computer lab, tutoring/arts & crafts room and kitchen, plus convenient laundry facilities. Rent is currently $523 to $1,312 per month based on family size and income level. Jamboree’s onsite resident services, Housing with HEART (Helping Educate, Activate and Respond Together), offers free, onsite supportive services and programs tailored to meet the needs of residents. The programs include homework assistance and tutoring for children; consumer credit counseling, ESL classes, homeownership preparation, financial literacy and pre-employment counseling for adults. An onsite program coordinator assists residents in accessing community services.Granite Court exceeds Title 24 energy-efficiency standards by more than 15%, lowering energy consumption and providing another cost-saving benefit to residents. Each apartment features ENERGY STAR appliances, window and floor coverings, ample storage closets and private outdoor space.  Other green features include: Participation in The Gas Company’s Advanced Home Program for multifamily projects exceeding Title 24Low-flow restrictors on bathroom and kitchen faucetsRecycling trash chute for residentsBathroom fans equipped with humidistat sensorsImplementation of indoor construction air quality management planEmission-reduction finishes: formaldehyde-free or sealed finishes, CRI Green Label carpetBamboo flooring, a renewable material in community centerConstruction waste recycling plan that diverted 75% of construction waste from landfillsInstallation of photovoltaic system (solar energy)Dual flush toilets“Sustainable design and close proximity to jobs, services and education further increase affordability for residents who have few affordable housing options, especially for larger families,” says KTGY’s David Obitz, principal and designer. Granite Court is .5 miles from the local elementary school and 1.75 miles from the local middle and high schools.