Stanford University New Trends in Faculty Housing

Revered as one of the world’s leading research and teaching institutions, Stanford University has earned its reputation as one of the most prestigious universities in the country. Located in Palo Alto, California, the campus is surrounded by the natural beauty and rich, cultural amenities of the Bay Area, making it an ideal place to live and work.

The high cost of living and limited affordable housing also makes this one of the most challenging housing markets in the nation. Prospective faculty can be deterred from joining Stanford, as there are few attainable housing options available for them. As a result, the University created a Housing Program to address the current housing-shortage problem as well as appeal to potential new faculty.

WHA teamed up with Regis Homes and Stanford University to create Olmsted Terrace, 39 stylish yet obtainable single- family homes exclusively for the eligible faculty and staff.

Using the existing aesthetic nature of Olmsted Road and the adjacent, eclectic College Terrace neighborhood as a design inspiration, WHA designed a sustainable, pedestrian-friendly community in harmony with existing neighborhood.

At first, the narrow, irregular-shaped, 7.6-acre site proved to be a challenge and required a variety of plotting organizations to address the visibility of the site from all edges. Our planners were able to plot the homes in a variety of cluster and conventional configurations, which created a walkable neighborhood with a strong sense of community.

Designed specifically for faculty, a strong emphasis is placed on special features such as private studies; tech centers and great rooms that maximize the natural light and minimize wasteful circulation. Exterior living areas are also an important design feature, with integrated private outdoor spaces, porches, and fully landscaped yards in every plan. The floor plans range from 1700-2300 square feet with 3-to-4 bedrooms.

Set for completion in Spring 2011, Olmsted Terrace is sold out and has been warmly received by the faculty and thankfully embraced by the surrounding community as a welcomed addition to the neighborhood.

For more information, please visit the Olmsted Terrace website: http://olmstedterrace.stanford.edu/index.php