St. James Terrace has been awarded the Chicago Athenaeum’s American Architecture Award in the Social Housing category, recognizing a project that brings supportive and affordable housing, integrated health services, and community resources to the Fordham neighborhood of the Bronx.
Developed on a former parking lot, St. James Terrace creates a new residential community that carefully integrates with the landmarked St. James Fordham Church. A monumental entrance along Jerome Avenue incorporates Gothic-inspired arches that frame views of the historic church buildings, leading residents and visitors into a landscaped courtyard. This new outdoor space connects the residential building with the existing Parish House and sanctuary, establishing a contemporary interpretation of a traditional church cloister.
The faith-based development provides safe, sustainable, and affordable housing alongside integrated medical and behavioral health care, culturally competent services, financial literacy and vocational training, and recovery planning. Building systems were selected to meet Housing Finance Agency energy efficiency and sustainability standards, including the Climate Bond Initiative, while giving residents individual control over their indoor environments.
St. James Terrace also includes a purpose-built community facility for St. James Fordham Church, with a fellowship hall, commercial kitchen, and credit union office. Operated by the church, the facility supports weekly food pantry distribution and provides flexible meeting space for parishioners and the broader community.
Reflecting on the project, Beth Greenberg, Partner at Dattner Architects, shares, “Tiffany windows in the landmarked gothic revival church, food pantry with new kitchen, community credit union, supportive and affordable housing, beautiful landscape, adjacent St. James Park and a great team all around (Concern Housing, Duvernay & Brooks, Episcopal Church leaders & parishioners, consultants and us!)—so much to honor and respect!”
Rachel Ehrlich, Associate Principal, adds, “We are grateful for this recognition from the Chicago Athenaeum. St. James Terrace shows that supportive housing can be a dignified, elegant, and enduring addition to a historic site in the Bronx, and we thank Concern Housing Partners, Duvernay & Brooks, St. James Fordham Church, and our design team for their vision and partnership.”
