Vertical Integrated Mixed Use

In previous posts, I have defined, outlined and supported horizontal and vertical mixed use projects as the best planning principle for communities to grow and prosper in the future. This approach is a much better alternative than developing fragmented isolated land use projects. We must strive to achieve sustainability in our real estate development projects as long as the project adheres to the principles of maintaining environmental integrity, attaining social balance, and achieving economic feasibility.

Vertical integrated mixed use is a new phrase to define the historic planning approach of small town USA. This planning approach will define future development patterns where a vertical integrated mixed use project becomes the urban community core within a horizontal mixed use development. Building malls on the outskirts of communities doomed the town core – in most cases. The revitalization of the town core concept in an urban community setting will bring back a sense of community, live-work opportunities, charm, diversity, and a place to raise a family. The key is creating a development pattern with vision accommodating transportation, business, and quality of life factors meeting the diverse needs of the users by answering the question “is this project sustainable”.

As an example, Birkdale is a vertical mixed use project situated within a horizontal mixed use community. This project built in Huntersville, NC established a new way to address growth patterns. It created a destination for people to live, work and play in one area not designed for the car but for the residents. Every project is unique due to the unique characteristics of the land and its location but the vertical integrated mixed use concept has proven to be a successful planning concept.

Birkdale the facts:                       52 acres
                                                  325,000 sq. ft. of high-end retail & restaurants
                                                  75,000sq. ft. office space
                                                  300 apartments