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 Design
The 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 Design
RHI'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.

 

Artistic Intent
A collaboration with local artist Lisa Scheer was central to the project's artistic narrative. The team worked with Scheer to create a bold display of public art, and her tall bronze sculpture now serves as a focal point along the streetscape. The sculpture is abstract, evoking a sense of playfulness that inspires visitors and residents to enjoy a pause of respite in an intimate space less than a block away from the busy main street. This area is highlighted by a focal paving pattern in concrete, the sculpture's granite plinth, and custom curved, wood-top benches. The patina of the bronze sculpture highlights the green of the granite material used in the architecture and complements the lush planting of the streetscape. The overall streetscape humanizes the urban edge and melds seamlessly with the adjacent quieter residential areas.

Stylishly Sustainable
Beyond aesthetics, sustainability drives the development's ethos. The landscape design aimed not only to beautify the surroundings but also to function as a resilient ecosystem within the urban environment. This involved careful selection of plant materials for their ability to thrive with minimal water consumption and maintenance, as well as the incorporation of sustainable building practices for the entire project endorsed by LEED consultant Sustainable Building Partners, LLC. Intensive green roof planting across multiple levels mitigates stormwater runoff, underscoring a commitment to environmental stewardship. This holistic approach not only enhances the project's ecological footprint but also promotes a healthier urban environment for the community while seamlessly incorporating necessary stormwater infrastructure into the landscape.

Hidden Refuge
The second-floor courtyard features a lush garden with seating terraces in a detailed basket-weave bluestone paving pattern and additional curved benches with wood tops. A simple and elegant linear water feature and paved path anchors curving sweeps of planting, culminating in an outdoor living room with a large granite fireplace and seating areas under a shady pergola. Masses of lush planting, both evergreen and deciduous, provide seasonal interest while smaller areas of flowering plants delight the senses.

High-Rise Haven
The tenth-floor rooftop is more active. Amenities include outdoor kitchen terraces, social lounge areas, and a rooftop pool. Brick paving details create intricate "carpets" in a larger field of bluestone paving, and light cast concrete plank pavers provide a comfortable pool deck surface for summer use. The planting includes a lively and playful mix of colors and textures with seasonal bulbs, flowering trees, and native groundcovers and perennials. This rooftop oasis not only caters to residents but also enhances the skyline with its thoughtful design and inviting atmosphere.

Local Impact
Since its completion in 2020, The Waycroft has become a focal point of community engagement in the Ballston neighborhood of Arlington. The integration of public sculpture, vibrant outdoor spaces, and thoughtful design elements fosters a sense of place and belonging among residents and visitors alike. The Waycroft exemplifies how thoughtful design and collaboration can transform a space into more than just a building - it becomes an urban oasis, a local beacon, and a cherished part of its community's identity. As Arlington continues to evolve, developments like this serve as a blueprint for harmonious urban growth, where architecture, landscape architecture, and public art converge to create enduring spaces that inspire and enrich the lives of all who encounter them.

Team List
Owner - Mary Beth Avedesian, Development Manager
Design Architect - David M. Schwarz Architects, Inc.,
Michael Schwarz, AIA, LEED-AP, Principal
Architect of Record -
WDG Architecture, PLLC, Buddy Woerner AIA, Principal
Landscape Architect -
Rhodeside & Harwell Landscape Architects, Thomas Rainer
Civil Engineering - Bohler Engineering, Michael J. O'Hara, PE, LEED AP
Structural Engineer - Tadjer-Cohen-Edelson Associates, Inc.,
Yehuda Nordman, PE, SE, Principal
MEP Engineer - Jordan & Skala Engineers,
Chris J. McDaniel, PE, LEED AP
Zoning Attorney - Bean Kinney & Lorman, PC, Jonathan C. Kinney
Transportation Engineer -
Gorove / Slade, Daniel B. VanPelt, PE, PTOE, Principal
LEED Consultant -
Sustainable Building Partners, LLC, Rachel Nicely, LEED AP