Redesigning Suburban Retail
Fans of smart urban and suburban design, we have found success in consulting with residential developers in guiding them through thoughtful commercial development neighboring their offering. What are the key components you ask?
Mixed-Use Buildings: If at all possible on a central point, we recommend Integrating commercial spaces on the ground floor with residential units above. This approach allows for a seamless blending of different activities and encourages residents to walk to nearby shops and services. Ideally this works with lofts or apartments above.
2. Pedestrian-Oriented Design: We prioritize pedestrian-friendly streets with wide sidewalks, tree-lined avenues, and well-designed crosswalks. The layout should encourage people to explore the area on foot, fostering chance encounters and social interactions.
3. Public Spaces and Plazas: We support the design public spaces and plazas strategically throughout the commercial node and residential nodes. These spaces can act as gathering points for community events, markets, or simply as places for people to relax and socialize.
4. Local Businesses: Here’s where our team at terra alma lives and breathes. We encourage a mix of local businesses and entrepreneurs to set up shop. These could include cafes, small restaurants, independent bookstores, art galleries, or specialty shops. Supporting local businesses fosters a sense of identity and uniqueness for the neighborhood.
5. Entertainment and Cultural Facilities: If we have the ability to support the local municipality in adding entertainment venues, such as a small theater, community center, or art studio, everyone wins. These venues not only support the local economy, but can be draws for additional visits to the property for others.
6. Pocket Parks and Green Spaces: The best part of a public private partnership is the integration of pocket parks and green spaces throughout the overall project. These areas serve as oases in the urban environment, providing a place for relaxation and recreation.
7. Bike Lanes and Bicycle Parking: Everyone has a different mode of preferred transportation. Including dedicated bike lanes and ample bicycle parking to encourage alternative transportation options and reduce reliance on cars.
8. Transit Accessibility: We’ve been honored to work with a handful of developers recently who are proximate to well-connected public transportation, making it easier for both residents and visitors to access the area without relying on cars.
9. Public Art and Installations: terra alma is well connected to local muralists and artist and take pride in integrating public art and installations into the project to create a visually stimulating environment and foster community pride.
10. Smart Urban Design: Implement smart urban design principles to create a well-connected, accessible, and sustainable commercial node. This includes energy-efficient buildings, waste management systems, and green infrastructure.
By incorporating these elements into the a commercial node of a suburban residential development, we can promote a more vibrant and interactive community, enhancing the overall experience of city living even in a suburban setting and helping to support a smoother sale of the residential units. Our focus at terra alma is creating an environment that encourages authentic relationships, social interaction, and a sense of belonging for the residents.
