CORTEZ HILL FAMILY CENTER PHASE TWO

San Diego, California
Cortez Hill
Community Project, New Construction

The Cortez Hill Family Center Phase Two was designed and built to provide additional office space, new classrooms, a large common dining room, and a children's play area for the residents and employees of the Cortez Hill Family Center.  The center is run by the YWCA and provides food, shelter, counseling and employment assistance to victims of domestic abuse.  The facility needed to be secure while at the same time creating a fun and friendly environment for the families.  The exterior is composed of a combination of stucco and corrugated metal panels.  A geometric tower element defines the entry and houses a new elevator and stairwell.  The new addition is separated from the existing housing facility by a landscaped courtyard which leads to a small playground complete with a red spiral slide.  Large operable windows were installed on both levels to provide daylighting, natural ventilation, and views to the surrounding residential neighborhood.