In our #Charlottesville office we spend a lot of time making sure to get all the details just right on our drawings. We work hard to make sure our wall sections, plans, elevations, and details are clear, concise, and correct. We research, learn, and investigate to deliver the right solution for each project. However, no matter how much time we spend reading and investigating, there is no substitute for stepping onto an active job site to see architecture come to life.
As active AIA Central Virginia members we often get to collaborate and learn from our peers in the industry. This week we were able to join the AIA Central Virginia Emerging Professionals (AIA EP) group for an architect-led tour of the Kindlewood Phase II project under construction in Charlottesville.
Our team reviewing site plans on the street before heading into the active construction zone
We encourage and support continuous learning and hands-on field experience in our firm in order to drive our design process. You need to see what you have drawn (and what others have drawn) to learn and grow as a designer. Visiting an active construction site gives our team knowledge of complex conditions from structural, mechanical, and even the building envelope in actual execution.
Even beyond all the building science lessons that can be learned on a job site, joining in on AIA Central Virginia events fosters peer connections within the architectural and construction industry. Walking a job site with fellow members brings up questions and conversations that don’t happen in a single office. Different firms approach design from various angles and learning best practices is critical for the advancement of our profession. We can discuss challenges and successes while seeing the results of design in action.
Architects viewing interior drywall and window installation at Kindlewood Phase 2
Grimm +Parker Architects, designed Kindlewood (formerly Friendship Court) as a regional benchmark for zero-displacement community master planning that delivers sustainable affordable housing to Charlottesville. The project’s multi-phase redevelopment allows residents to safely stay in their homes on-site while 450 mixed income units and additional community resources are added. This community building approach required complex design and strategy sessions. It saves and builds onto community. It also keeps neighborhood kids looking over the construction fences to see amazing career opportunities from architecture to construction.
During the tour our team learned about the sustainable design goals including building envelope strategies that meet Enterprise Green Community standards and the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home standards. The rooftop solar arrays, localized amenities, and resilient infrastructure will foster a healthy community for many decades to come.
Rooftop solar array installed for high-performance sustainable energy at Kindlewood Phase 2
One of our regular contractors for multi-family projects is also the contractor for this project. KBS, out of Richmond, VA, has a focus on high quality construction and is a strong collaborative partner. We are proud of their work on this project in the Charlottesville community and look forward to our next sustainable multi-family community we get to work with them on.
Our Charlottesville team, Lizzy, Adrienne, Izzy, and Emily in safety gear on the rooftop at Kindlewood
Getting out of the office to see sustainable architecture in action energizes our team. We love the community building approach this project took and the standards of design used. Congratulations to Grimm+Parker Architects on a very successful design and KBS on the execution of the vision. We know that your work will have a lasting impact on our Charlottesville community.
