American studio David Baker Architects took cues from West African culture while conceiving this affordable housing complex for people aged 62 or older.
The Dr George Davis Senior Building is located in Bayview-Hunters Point, a historic African-American neighbourhood in San Francisco. The building is named after the late executive director of Bayview Senior Services, who worked to create an affordable housing complex in the area for senior residents.

"This vibrant building is the realisation of a multi-decade dream pursued by the late Dr George W Davis ? a community activist and head of Bayview Senior Services ? to build housing and a community hub that would support seniors to age in place in this under-served San Francisco neighbourhood," said local firm David Baker Architects in a project description.
U-shaped in plan, the complex consists of two bars connected by a sculptural central volume. At the heart of the complex is a landscaped courtyard, with pavings and plantings influenced by West African fractal patterns ? one of many references to the region's culture that was incorporated into the building's design and decor.

"Based on the desires and sense of identity of the local community, the building incorporates a wide range of African-inspired design elements," the team said.
A multi-coloured facade gives the building a strong street presence. The east and west wings are clad in panels of varying hues, from dark brown to pumpkin orange, wh...