The site is located in Historic Southend of Charlotte: a traversable, neighborhood community, seconds from the transit and light rail systems. Its close proximity to restaurants, retail, museums, and medical facilities makes this location desirable for all ages. Several amenities are within just two blocks of the site: Phat Burrito, Pikes soda shop, Chicken Coop, Fuel Pizza, and Dunkin Donuts are just a few. The vast developments of other residential projects are currently undergoing construction. This growth gives promise to this site’s rising future.
        Within the site is an existing farmer’s market that emphasizes the personal quality this site has to offer. This farmer’s market influenced the entrance into the building because it provided a social opportunity that allowed residents and non-residents to mix as one. Instead of limiting the farmer’s market to just one role, the idea of creating a multifunctional plaza strengthened the idea of creating a community-oriented development.  Not only would this plaza serve as a farmer’s market, but it would also establish a designated drop-off, and a space for social and physical activities.
        Within the design, the promotion of activities through program is emphasized. A centralized core engages the accessibility between public and private spaces, and promotes physical and social activities to occur within the program. The width and span of the atrium allows for improved circulation and interaction between neighbors, friends, and even nature. The function of this space is very unique and flexible because it serves as a corridor, common lounge, and an indoor garden. Bamboo sprouts will be planted here to reinforce the idea of personal growth and life.
        The Building Envelope is the next stage that examines how the materials respond to sun, sustainability, and code (LEED). In response to the sun, louvers serve two primary functions: they shade the façades in order to lessen solar exposure. In addition, they also emphasize horizontality, by encouraging movement at the retail level. In several south and west facing apartments, operable panels are placed within the apartment’s interior to reduce the amount of unwanted heat. Photovoltaic panels are angled towards the south facing sun provides energy source for the building.
In response to sustainability, flowerbeds are designed within the south and west façade. Their structure tiers in order to collect natural rainwater. However, their significance is much greater. The primary use of the flowerbeds is to provide natural privacy among other neighbors, in addition to disguising the presence of the parking deck, from all perspectives. This “table-top” parking deck provides a private courtyard space for the residences above, and is then aided by a green roof that provides better insulation for the entire project.
        In response to LEED, impervious pavement has been added to all plazas and walkways.  The locker rooms are provided at the pool level for those who commute to site by bike.
In response to the ADA requirements, special emphasis has been placed on detail in order to maintain a qualitative and safe atmosphere for the resident regardless of age. The pool is designed with ramp access. All doors open/close electronically. All apartments are handicap accessible.