PARC VIEW AT COMMONWEALTH
PINECREST | CITY OF RICHMOND, VIRGINIA
GATHERING WITH A VIEW
A variety of gathering spaces for students to socialize, study, and relax
PROGRAM
Infill Development Site, Student Housing, Podium Courtyard / Courtyard Landscape, Hardscape, Site Furnishings
Parc View at Commonwealth is a student-centered apartment tower located near Virginia Commonwealth University in the heart of Richmond, VA. The goal of Cite Design’s efforts was to create a variety of usable gathering areas for the residents of Parc View. Cite Design focused on outdoor amenities on Level 3 of the tower, situated atop the parking garage, as well as Level 16, which abuts the top level apartments and the interior clubhouse/student lounge.
The Level 3 courtyard is a partially enclosed space featuring green roof landscape along the perimeters to create a quiet, inviting space for smaller groups or those looking for a secluded place to study outdoors. Level 16’s sweeping city skyline views offer the perfect backdrop for larger group gatherings, watching the big game, grilling, and socializing. Located off the interior lounge space, the roof deck boasts a variety of seating areas and program site elements.
With both focus areas located atop structure, different design details were incorporated to create usable space, such as pedestal pavers, green roof media and landscape, raised planters, fixed site furnishings, and multi-use gathering areas. A majority of the seating on both levels are fixed with custom ipe-cladded wood benches to help define the spaces and provide a variety seating opportunities. Also, the use of sedum green trays allowed for easy installation of the green roof areas to help soften the spaces and add landscape to the overall designs for both Level 3 and 16.
Photography - Ansel Olson Photography and Rycon Construction, Inc.