The site of the former St. Augustine Church has a new mission—providing 112 affordable homes for families and people with mental illness.
When the New York City church closed its doors to merge with another parish several years ago, an opportunity opened for Catholic Homes New York to transform the site into St. Augustine Terrace. “This represents the first new affordable housing initiative by the Archdiocese of New York in 30 years,” says Susan Albrecht, executive director of the organization.
Drawing inspiration from the church, Magnusson Architecture and Planning designed the new building to be a “beacon of light” in the community. There are 12 floors of fully glazed elevator lobbies that provide spectacular views by day and then glow at night to light the street corners and a park across the street.
St. Augustine Terrace features a mix of apartment sizes, including 37 two- and 21 three-bedroom homes to accommodate larger families earning 50% and 60% of the area median income. In addition, there are 35 supportive housing units for adults with mental illness. The social service staff of Beacon of Hope, a division of Catholic Charities Community Services, has offices in the building to provide a range of programs.
The $54.7 million development has earned LEED Gold certification, with a 48-kW solar photovoltaic system and enhanced envelope insulation.
