The Frank G. Mar Community Housing Project, Oakland

The Frank G. Mar Community Housing Project is a high-density mixed residential and commercial development in downtown Oakland, California. It gives an excellent example of how to contain urban sprawl and provides 199 affordable dwelling units, underground car-parking for 310 cars and 12,500 ft² of commercial space, all located on a single plot only third of a hectare in size. High levels of energy efficiency have been designed into the project and cross subsidy from the commercial activities helps ensure affordable rents for low-income residents.