Orchids & Onions

Kaya Community Lobby

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  Interior Design

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7

Address

2710 3rd Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103

Owner / Developer

Owner: Nutmeg PE LLC; Developers: Jeff Svitak, Inc. / Cast Development

Architect

Jeff Svitak, Inc.

Contractor

Helvey Design Studio / Premium West Construction

Landscape Architect

Aron Nussbaum Studio

Structural Engineer

Facet

Mechanical & Plumbing Engineer

H+W Engineering

Electrical Engineer

H+W Engineering

Interiors

Jeff Svitak, Inc. / Twice Studios

Other

Architect of Record: Stackhouse De La Peña Trachtenberg Architects

Photo credit: César Béjar Studio

The Kaya Community Lobby is designed as a shared ground-floor space rather than a conventional apartment entrance. Located beside Olive Street Park, the lobby and Communal Coffee open toward the street and park through full-height glazing and operable wood screens, allowing the activity of the neighborhood to extend into the building.

Exposed concrete is balanced by a continuous wood ceiling, planting, custom-designed furniture, and large-scale artwork commissioned from Kristyan Stjerne. Communal tables, lounge seating, and integrated mailboxes support a range of everyday uses, from collecting mail and working to meeting neighbors or stopping for coffee, provided by Communal Coffee.

By combining the functions of a residential lobby, café, and gathering space, the project creates a direct connection between residents and the wider Bankers Hill community. Daylight, natural ventilation, and views toward the park keep the space open, comfortable, and closely connected to its surroundings.

1 thought on “Kaya Community Lobby”

  1. Three cheers for for this excellent “Third Place”! Kudos to the developer for making this comfortable spot available to the neighborhood. I hope other developers see how this idea can make good sense in their urban infill developments. A better semi-public realm is better for everyone!

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