Marx Okubo was brought in to help Families Forward transform a 50-year-old, 8-plex apartment building into a welcoming affordable housing project. In order to complete this conversion, the firm conducted an initial condition assessment, then scoped renovation and provided project management. The building was gutted, and all interior finishes, fixtures and appliances were replaced with new, modern versions that matched new developments constructed in the area.

Marx Okubo was engaged to assess the building and determine ways that the final renovated structure could provide safe, affordable housing that helped formerly-homeless families become safely housed. Given the affordability component of the project, it was necessary for the Marx Okubo team to design ways to reduce operating cost as much as possible while still maintaining the quality of life for the residents. This was accomplished through window and roofing upgrades and replacements, as well as installing energy-efficient light fixtures and appliances–all of which cut energy consumption. Finally, a drought-tolerant landscaping scheme was developed that reduced water consumption to a minimum.

All the work and the final project were delivered on time and under budget with minimal disruption to residents. The project reflects Marx Okubo’s consistency in its successful project delivery as well as its commitment to giving back to the community.