If you’re a homebuyer or renter in search of ultra-modern architecture and contemporary finishes, there's a Graduate Hospital block with a lot to offer. Developer Stephen Rodriguez has proposed Bloc 24, a new mixed-use development featuring 18 apartments, for a space adjacent to the already-approved but not-yet-built
Bloc 23 project, which will boast 24 condos and a unique modern design all its own.
Slated for 613-919 S. 24th Street, Bloc 24, like its sister project, will rise four stories. Both will feature ground-floor retail and they will share underground parking facilities for residents.
Parking is one reason why Bloc 23 has yet to be built (it was a approved in late 2012). Rodriguez now wants to merge the basement levels of the buildings, producing a connected space for cars.
"There is a cost savings by building both buildings together due to the cost of underpinning the building," explains Rodriguez. "There is also some economy of scale issues with site work, materials, the modular pods, etc."
Other plans for Bloc 24 include a day care facility on the ground floor, a green roof only accessible to the children from the day care and permeable materials to mitigate stormwater run-off and reduce the building's impact on the surrounding environment.
The architecture will definitely be distinct. Design firm
Campbell Thomas & Company and Steve Nebel of
LABhaus have designed metal strips along the buildings' façades with both aesthetics and functoin in mind -- they serve as railings and increase privacy for residents.
"Steve Nebel actually devised a mathematical algorithm to determine the spacing of the exterior slats," says Rodriguez. "It is derived from swam movements in natures. When complete, the face will look like a flock of birds or school of fish moving across the building. It's pretty amazing."
The project hopes to gain approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustments soon. If that happens, both projects will break ground simultaneously.
Source: Stephen Rodriguez, Local developer
Writer:
Greg Meckstroth