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Residential and Retail Site by Rhodeside & Harwell, Inc.
The Waycroft, a mixed-use development in Arlington, Virginia, stands as a testament to collaborative design and community integration. Set on 2.79 acres at the intersection of Ballston's residential and commercial district, the project harmoniously blends classic architectural elements with modern functionality, creating a landmark at a bustling intersection.The design is sensitive to the context of the building's urban surroundings, with architectural details that echo the neighborhood's aesthetic. A welcoming streetscape and multiple outdoor spaces designed by Alexandria-based landscape architecture firm Rhodeside & Harwell, Inc. (RHI) add to the curbside appeal and building amenities. David M. Schwarz Architects, Inc. created the architectural vision for the building, working closely with the City of Arlington and WDG Architecture, PLLC as Architect of Record.Interdisciplinary DesignThe design process for the project exemplifies a journey of collaboration and meticulous planning, from initial concept through to construction and implementation. The design began with a deep understanding of the site's context and its integration into the broader urban fabric of Arlington. Conceptual development involved extensive dialogue with the architectural team to ensure seamless integration of outdoor spaces with the building's aesthetic and functional goals. This phase saw the exploration of various design options, from the layout of garden spaces and outdoor amenities to the selection of plant species that would thrive in urban conditions while enhancing the development's visual appeal throughout the seasons.As the design progressed into construction documents, collaboration intensified with the engineering team. Coordination among disciplines was crucial to ensure that every aspect of the landscape - from grading and drainage solutions to lighting and irrigation systems - aligned with both aesthetic objectives and technical requirements.The implementation phase marked the culmination of this collaborative effort and allowed for on-site coordination between Clark Construction as the contractor, RHI, and the engineers to translate the design into reality. Challenges, such as integrating stormwater management strategies into the green roof planting and ensuring accessibility throughout the various outdoor levels, were met through innovative solutions and close teamwork.Multi-Level DesignRHI's landscape design enriches the development with three distinct outdoor levels. At the street level, the project is a gateway that gently ushers passersby from the nearby residential neighborhood into the area's commercial hub. Thus, the style of the building is balanced by appropriate proportioning of the landscape features, sensitively curated materials, and careful use of massing to create a sense of intimacy. Maintaining this sense allows Waycroft residents who frequent the grocery stores, pharmacies, and other establishments that form the base of the building to feel at ease in the otherwise bustling environment. To achieve this, the landscape design consists of multiple levels of welcoming outdoor spaces, transitioning from a traditional gardenesque style near ground level that complements the style of the architecture to a contemporary and lively aesthetic on the rooftop, where amenities such as outdoor kitchens, a pool, and shaded lounge areas encourage residents to enjoy the spaces.
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