Tomorrow's Project by HunterDouglas Contract
Tomorrow's Project is a discussion platform for prominent architects and designers to voice their predictions on the future of design. Every other week, we speak to design leaders who are developing ideas for smarter ways to live and work that challenge the norms in their sectors: healthcare, education, corporate, retail, and hospitality design.
Guy Geier

Question: What are the challenges and opportunities that come with mixed-use design?

Guy: The opportunities that come with mixed-use design are in the creation of vibrant, 24/7 environments that are conducive to living, working, and playing. These types of projects are often part of a transit-oriented development, where a transit station creates a nexus for multiple uses and high levels of activity.

The biggest challenge is getting the relative mix correct — establishing a percentage for office, retail, residential and community space that will generate income for the developer.

Question: Are there particular areas of the world or country where it is gaining in popularity?

Guy: There is an increased interest in mixed-use here in the United States, especially because of the prevalence of transit-oriented design. As a company, we've seen opportunities in New York, New Jersey, and Washington D.C. Internationally, levels of acceptance to the mixed-use typology are typically much higher, because communities have grown over longer periods of time and by nature have developed organically. Less restrictive zoning regulations by use also contribute to mixed-use design.

Question: Tell us about a progressive or unusual mixed-use project that you've recently completed.

Guy: FXFOWLE is currently working on six parcels in the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The goal of the KAFD is to establish a mixed-use community that integrates business and recreational activities for Riyadh's growing financial work force. It will include offices, hotels, residential units, shops, and cultural/entertainment facilities, all centered around a Wadi, a landscaped pedestrian route that weaves through and unifies the entire district. Four parcels are currently under construction, with two additional parcels in schematic design. The entire district is pursuing LEED Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Question: Have you completed a mixed-use project in the U.S.?

Guy: We also recently completed the Archstone Clinton Mixed-Use Development on Manhattan's West Side. Built over sunken rail cuts that had blighted the neighborhood, the project has created a new sense of vibrancy through a network of public spaces, buildings, and an urban garden. The project's retail space, residential areas, space for three non-profit theater groups, and below-grade parking are all connected with grade and roof-level open spaces.

Question: Describe the evolution of mixed-use design as you see it.

Guy: Historically, people have lived in communities in which various building functions were determined by an individual's mobility. Mixed-use growth happened organically as a result of necessity. With industrialization came dispersed, large-scale, single-use structures, such as manufacturing plants and residential towers. Now, as we become more conscious of our impact on the environment, we look to how we can make the most of the spaces we occupy. Mixed-use design, high-density growth, and transit-oriented development encourage walkability, the preservation of land, and more efficient modes of transportation.

Question: Tell us something unusual about yourself.

Guy: I was recently inducted into the Raven Society at the University of Virginia.

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Innovation Poll
What will have the biggest impact on the classroom of the future?
  1. Flexibility, which will allow students to work independently or in groups
  2. Shared spaces that promote socialization and casual learning
  3. Sustainability and a focus on healthier, more productive spaces
  4. The integration of technology
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