Cypress Senior Living

GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA

Goal: Convert a blighted unreinforced masonry building into a vibrant housing community for elderly residents in Glendale, California.

Located in the vibrant city of Glendale, Los Angeles County, Cypress Senior Living is one of CDP’s first projects and the first to include a Veterans set-aside. Completed in 2014, the major renovation of this historic brick masonry building provided critically needed housing for Glendale’s senior population. The project features studio and one-bedroom units, and the extensive renovation revitalized the interiors, building systems, and exterior to foster a healthier living environment.

Despite being situated on a compact urban lot, the project transformed an underutilized rear dirt yard into a thriving community garden and outdoor recreation area in partnership with The Ecology Center. This space now includes garden boxes, a Mediterranean-inspired planting palette, and edible plants, offering residents a unique connection to the source of their food.

Inside, the building boasts a small community room, a book-share library, and original artwork that enhances the shared spaces. Additionally, a mural by artist Chelsea Hoover, inspired by conversations with the Veteran residents, transforms a wall in the parking lot into a meaningful symbol of community and gratitude for their service.

DEVELOPMENT

A partnership with the City of Glendale’s Housing Authority, Cypress Senior secured competitive 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credits. This allowed for not only a significant renovation, but also the permanent low rents serving elderly residents earning 40% – 60% of the Area Median Income. Additionally, the property provides dedicated units for Veterans.

DATA
  • Completion Date: 2014
  • Total Development Cost: $4.9M
  • Affordability: 30% - 60% AMI
  • Total Units: 18
  • Unit Mix: 14 0BD, 4 1BD
TEAM
  • Developer: CDP
  • Architect: Egan Simon
  • Contractor: ICON Builders
  • Property Management: FPI Management
  • Resident Services Partner: EngAGE

PARTNERS

CDP is proud to partner with these organizations, dedicated to bettering the lives not only of The Cypress Senior Living’s residents, but of those lower-income residents in surrounding communities.

EngAGE

EngAGE is a nonprofit that takes a holistic approach to community and creativity by providing on-site arts, wellness, lifelong learning, community building and intergenerational programs to thousands of seniors and families living in affordable senior and multi-generational apartment communities. Providing on-site programs reduces primary barriers to engagement – cost and transportation– maximizing impact.

Founded in 1999 as More Than Shelter for Seniors, EngAGE has worked continuously as leading experts in aging arts programming. In the last few years, they have adapted to include intergenerational communities. The goal of EngAGE is to change lives across generations by transforming affordable housing into centers of community, learning, and well-being.

The Ecology Center

The Ecology Center curates ecological experiences for all, offering creative and practical solutions for thriving on planet Earth. With a holistic approach, the organization combines the cultivation of future agricultural, culinary, and educational leaders with the creation of a dynamic community resource and gathering space designed to inspire. Recognizing the interdependence of its core pillars—Grow, Eat, Make, and Peace—the Ecology Center integrates these elements seamlessly into its mission, fostering a unique and transformative experience for all who engage with its work.