Three Value-Add Community Clubs

REPURPOSING: HISTORICAL PRESERVATION

When development property is steeped in history, it can provide a unique and special amenity for new multifamily communities. In Nicholasville, KY, the story begins with one of the most well-known pioneer frontiersmen in American history. On land owned by Daniel Boone’s son and once occupied by the legend himself, BSB Design saved and repurposed a house that was original to the property, celebrating the past by updating the building and expanding it to become the social hub of the community.

Historic preservation is rife with challenge, and at Greyson on 27, the Boone house had battled the elements for more than 125 years. Of late, the property had fallen into disrepair, but the team determined that the structure could be saved. Architecturally, the distinctive columns of Greek revival style would remain a defining element for the new community clubhouse. The footprint was expanded to enable modern amenities and to frame the community pool. Now, the updated club building pays homage to its storied past while providing a contemporary, lifestyle-driven experience to modern renters.

REPROGRAMMING: TENNIS COURTS TO CLUBHOUSE

An unused set of tennis courts offered the perfect location for a second community clubhouse at Axiom in Tustin, CA. The new club could activate the centrally located parcel and would serve as an extension of the original amenity building and pool located across the street. The new architecture is marked by contemporary massing and clean, simple lines that contrast yet somehow blend with the existing apartment buildings.

The infill site is clearly visible from the street and surrounded by units on three sides. This visibility meant that all four sides of the clubhouse had to be architecturally pleasing. The color palette complemented the existing colors of the community, but after construction was completed, the owners opted to refresh all residential buildings to match the new clubhouse exterior. It has obviously been a welcome replacement for those tired tennis courts.

REVITALIZING: SCRAPE AND START OVER

Sometimes updating the amenity experience at an established community requires a bold investment. Winwood Apartments in Johnston, IA, first opened in the late 1980s, and even though the original club building was still functional, the owners wanted to reaffirm the community’s competitive position in the marketplace. Instead of an addition or refresh, they opted to raze the original club and build a brand new amenity center to address current lifestyle trends.

The new club building took a bold departure from the traditionally-styled buildings of the community. Designers used a modern warehouse vibe to create a contrasting amenity that was purposefully different than the rest of the neighborhood. It creates a destination environment, noticeably unique and inviting due to its modern architecture, materials and colors. The bold decision to start from scratch has yielded an incredible new amenity building that redefines the resident experience at Winwood.

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These projects were featured in Volume 12 of our inspire magazine. Check it out here!