Build inclusive buildings

San Francisco finds itself in dire need of much more attractive, meaningful and affordable housing for lowincome residents. The solution is a turn to hybrid architecture. The Fruitvale District in Oakland includes several successful lowincome development projects, but these are designed according to the tired model of mixeduse architecture. Mixed use keeps people apart. Hybrid architecture does the opposite. It merges offices, residences, retail, hotels, learning facilities and cultural facilities, all within a single building. The interaction between community members in these hybrid spaces becomes compelling, a far cry from the segregated feel of mixeduse buildings. San Francisco developers and planners looking toward the future, should pivot to the ideals of hybrid architecture. Implementation of true hybrid architecture, where living overlaps with offices, shopping, studios and small exhibition spaces could renew many neighborhoods throughout the city core. The resulting buildings will instill a stronger sense of community and will result in more successful long term developments.

A welcome byproduct of this progressive hybrid architecture is that people in these new communities will have ample opportunity to network with each other, thereby creating stronger relationships, more economic opportunity and deepening empathy.

Isabella Tangherlini, Albany