A mixed-use development featuring senior affordable apartments and retail space is planned for an Expo Line-adjacent property in Santa Monica.

The project, which would rise from a currently vacant lot at 711 Colorado Avenue, is to be presented this week to the Santa Monica Architectural Review Board for design feedback prior to a hearing at the Planning Commission.  Plans call for the construction of a seven-story building featuring 56 deed-restricted apartments above 1,499 square feet of ground-floor commercial space and 17 parking spaces on a basement level.

The mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments will be reserved for seniors making up to 30 percent of the area median income.

KFA Architecture is designing the proposed development, which is described as featuring a "sophisticated layer of forms," and an exterior of dark and light grey sand finished stucco with vinyl clear polymer balcony walls.  Plans call for common open space amenities at the second, fifth, and roof levels of the building.

A staff report recommends minor changes to the design and finishes of the building.

The property is owned by WS Communities, the prolific Santa Monica-based homebuilder that is now in construction on a 100-unit apartment building next-door to 711 Colorado at the street's intersection with Lincoln Boulevard.