Renaissance Square

Description

Sustainable affordable housing for artists became a revitalization agent for the town as a whole. Sited at a nexus between a historical neighborhood and a nascent Route 1, the design of this 44-unit building knits together the social and physical fabrics of the community. The infrastructure needs for different types of artists vary widely, so a large shared studio has utility sinks and ample power for equipment – residents will subdivide it; a sprung floor for dance was provided. On upper levels are rooms for computer graphics, music rehearsal, and ventilation activities. The art gallery with its glass walls draws neighbors in and allows the artists to share their talents with the community.

The façade is articulated with entries to ground-floor apartments defining a pedestrian scale and reinforcing connectivity between residents and neighbors.

In addition to its social benefits, this project is one of the first green affordable housing projects in Maryland. High efficiency HVAC systems, healthy building materials, and low flow plumbing fixtures, take sustainability to the next level. Two green roof terraces create opportunities for the artists to socialize and work outdoors while affording views of the surrounding community.