Urban + Mixed-Use

In our increasingly dense urban environments, the boundaries between living, working, and leisure spaces are becoming indistinguishable, driving a heightened demand for mixed-use developments. At WATG and Wimberly Interiors, we create dynamic environments that seamlessly blend multiple functions, enhancing the urban experience, fostering community interaction, reducing travel distances, and contributing to vibrant, sustainable urban areas by integrating spaces for convenience and connection.

Our global Advisory, Master Planning, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, and Interior Design teams lead the way in transformative urban residential and hospitality projects. With expertise in adaptive reuse, community-centric design, and sustainable practices, we revitalize cityscapes, transforming them into vibrant, functional, and resilient spaces for living, working, and socializing.

+ Economic – Mixed-use developments boost housing availability, often revitalizing undervalued land in downtown areas. By increasing housing diversity and focusing on multifamily units, these projects enhance property values and balance the supply and demand for jobs and housing.

+ Social – The “live, work, play” concept turns neighborhoods into dynamic, multi-use spaces, improving efficiency and quality of life. They create vibrant communities that stay active for longer periods, enhancing safety and fostering a unique sense of place.

+ Environmental – Mixed-use neighborhoods adapt well to changing conditions and support sustainable transportation practices. They shorten travel distances, encouraging walking, biking, and other forms of micro-mobility.

Adaptive reuse is is a robust approach to urban revitalization that merges historical charm with modern functionality. By repurposing existing buildings and infrastructures, we blend contemporary needs with the architectural heritage, creating unique urban landmarks that are both environmentally sustainable and culturally significant. This method not only conserves resources and reduces construction waste but also respects and preserves the architectural heritage of the city, allowing old structures to serve new purposes and meet contemporary needs.

Modern urban development projects are increasingly centered on the concept of community integration. This philosophy extends beyond the creation of isolated architectural landmarks. Instead, it focuses on designing spaces that are intrinsically linked with their surroundings. The objective is to craft buildings that offer more than just residential or commercial spaces; they are envisaged as integral parts of a larger community ecosystem.

This approach promotes interaction and socialization among residents, fostering a robust sense of community and belonging, and increasing the lease renewal rate. According to UDR, a US Based REIT with over 50,000 residential units, 75% of leases are renewed when residents have a friendly connection with one of resident in their community & 90% when they have 2 or more connections.

In contemporary urban designs, wellness is a paramount consideration, with a substantial focus on integrating natural light, open spaces, and dedicated wellness facilities into the architectural framework. This approach is rooted in the recognition of the vital role natural elements and wellness amenities play in enhancing both mental and physical health. Buildings that are bathed in natural light and feature expansive communal open spaces, lush green areas, and wellness-centric facilities like fitness centers, yoga studios, and meditation rooms, actively promote healthier lifestyles. Such designs not only offer aesthetic and environmental benefits but also function as hubs for wellness activities, fostering a community centered around health and well-being. These elements are especially pivotal in settings such as senior living communities, where holistic wellness amenities contribute significantly to residents’ social engagement, mental health, and overall quality of life.

Reflecting the cultural lifestyle of their locations, urban designs are increasingly incorporating elements of outdoor living. In regions like California, this means creating spaces that seamlessly blend indoor comforts with the outdoor environment. Features like expansive terraces, landscaped gardens, outdoor dining areas, and recreational facilities are becoming standard in many urban residential projects. This design philosophy extends the concept of living space beyond traditional confines, promoting a lifestyle in harmony with the environment and catering to the residents’ desire for a more connected, nature-oriented living experience.

In addition to the aesthetic and functional aspects, sustainability remains a cornerstone in contemporary urban residential design. Emphasizing green spaces, efficient use of resources, eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient systems, these projects reflect a growing consciousness towards building environmentally responsible and sustainable communities. The integration of green technology, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, is becoming increasingly common, reflecting the commitment to reduce the carbon footprint of urban developments.

As urban populations continue to grow, the demand for mixed-use developments will surge. The future of mixed-use design lies in creating smart, sustainable, and resilient spaces that can adapt to the evolving needs of urban dwellers. At WATG and Wimberly Interiors, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design, ensuring our projects meet today’s demands while anticipating tomorrow’s challenges.

Our global Advisory, Master Planning, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, and Interior Design teams possess a profound understanding of the dynamic needs of urban environments. We strive to make these spaces more enjoyable, sustainable, and economically thriving. Our focus on adaptive reuse, community integration, and sustainable design positions us as leaders in crafting environments where residents and guests thrive.