Urban Design

Vibrant urban spaces result from the inspired management of cars, pedestrians and public transit. During 30 years of designing such transit-oriented development (TOD), we have honed the capability to orchestrate urban traffic of all modes in order to create active public spaces surrounded by valuable development. The results are spirited districts and neighborhoods that are socially and economically dynamic – places that induce civic investment, encourage joint ventures and measurably increase land values. Working with both public and private clients, we meet the diverse needs of cities, developers, the business community, surrounding neighborhoods and the individuals who will ultimately occupy the urban environment.

To design vital places for today’s needs and for future opportunities, we draw on the natural environment and the history and culture of the site, as well as from classic principles of city-making. Our approach gives the client an achievable plan to make a district both memorable and a magnet for public use. With both city governments and neighborhood groups, we successfully resolve issues of transportation, density, infill, accessibility and water and energy conservation. We use expertise in market research, program development, urban planning and design and finance to educate the participants and facilitate the process. We are effective negotiators capable of reconciling diverse priorities, achieving timely approvals, setting standards for long-term stewardship of the land and increasing financial return.