The new mixed-use building is located on a major roadway on the edge of downtown, creating an entry node while encouraging pedestrians and cyclists from the surrounding neighborhoods. The urban setting encouraged the building to be sited on the street at the corner with parking and a rainwater garden courtyard located on the interior of the block.
The mass is split to accommodate a stair and create a point of entry for the apartments above. The larger part of the mass is lifted and retail is tucked below. This also allows for a few accessible ground floor apartments.
Inspired by the typical Louisiana courtyard but with native swamp plants, circulation is placed along this courtyard. The roof is sloped towards this courtyard collecting rainwater for the rainwater garden which cleans the water before it flows into local bayous and waterways.