VAYA on Axia is a 7.96-acre site located within the larger Otay Ranch master-planned community and Eastern Urban Center planning area in the City of Chula Vista. A quarter-acre public access plaza featuring public art and pedestrian “portals” was required as part of the Sectional Planning Area (SPA) requirements.
This multifamily apartment development features a network of programmed amenity spaces organized around four residential buildings. The public plaza is located at the corner of Millenia Avenue and Axia Way, across from Millenia Park. An interactive art installation spells out “AXIA” in internally illuminated perforated metal letters. Facing Millenia Avenue, the installation invites pedestrians from the jogging trail and surrounding pedestrian network into the space.
A formal promenade lined with ‘Desert Museum’ Palo Verdes guides visitors through the plaza.
The promenade terminates in a small courtyard featuring terraced wood benches and an enlarged wood platform seating area. This space provides flexible seating and work areas for the adjacent co-working lounge. The plaza also includes a large bioswale for stormwater treatment. The bioswale creates a buffer from the adjacent street and bridge “portal” structures while enhancing the sense of arrival.
A large outdoor pool area is located across from the public plaza. The pool deck features a rim-flow pool with two 25-meter swim lanes, a spa, mature date palms, cabanas, barbecue facilities, and a game area. A large indoor/outdoor pavilion anchors the space. The pavilion includes a kitchen capable of hosting events. Nearby, an outdoor barbecue and lounge area connects to a clubroom through large roll-up doors.
Additionally, the community includes a large, fenced dog park and passive park. Further amenities include a barbecue and dining area, community garden, game lawn, and children’s maze.
The landscape incorporates a diverse palette of native and drought-tolerant cacti and succulents. Native oak trees and fast-growing sycamores will provide shade as they mature. Bioswales designed as dry creek beds help treat on-site stormwater runoff.