An application to modify the height of a development at 522 8th Avenue South was lodged by Hawkins Partners Inc., acting for Circle South Residential (TN) LLC. This property, located within the Downtown Code (DTC) zoning area, seeks approval to expand its structure by eight additional floors, aiming for a new total of nineteen floors over its 0.41-acre plot.
The architectural design, crafted by Dwell Design Studios, aims for Circle South to serve as a transitional piece, blending the towering presence of nearby high-rise buildings along Korean Veterans Boulevard with the more approachable, pedestrian-friendly vibe of the adjacent areas. The design and massing strategy reflect a conscious effort to enhance the urban fabric and walkability of the locale. A visual representation provided below indicates the array of developments, either in planning stages or already underway, near the Korean Veterans Boulevard roundabout, with building heights varying between 30 to 45 floors.
Circle South is set to offer a variety of residential options, including studio, one, two, and three-bedroom units. The development’s strategy includes the activation of street-level spaces along 8th Avenue South and Drexel Street, with plans for the main lobby, leasing office, and amenity areas to feature prominently along the 8th Avenue facade. Proposed elements along Drexel Street include amenities for bicycles and a designated dog park, enhancing the community feel.
Development Rundown: What about Circle South?
- Current Status: The site stands vacant;
- Future Outlook: Introduction of Circle South;
- Developer: Lincoln Property Company;
- Architectural Design: Entrusted to Dwell Design Studio;
- Civil and Landscape Architecture: Managed by Ragan Smith Associates and Hawkins Partners;
- Location: Positioned at 522 8th Avenue South;
- Project Scope: Encompasses 261 residential units, along with amenities and parking facilities.
Exterior Materials
The design envisions the use of brick masonry, storefront glazing, and industrial-style metal panels with wooden highlights from the ground level up to the fifth floor. The design for the higher floors proposes large windows, glass balcony railings, and a stucco facade finish. A two-way alley is planned to provide access to the parking garage and service areas, featuring brick masonry and aluminum windows at ground level, with spandrel glazing and mesh screening for the parking decks, complemented by wooden louvers.
Building Layout
The proposed building layout includes three underground parking levels and five above-ground parking levels, complemented by amenity and residential “liners” facing 8th Avenue South and Drexel Street. From the sixth to the nineteenth floor, the building primarily accommodates residential units, along with amenity spaces and a screened mechanical parapet.
The development plans include detailed layouts for the amenity and residential liners across the first five levels, and proposals for an upper-level pool deck and sky lounge, highlighting the comprehensive approach to creating a vibrant and inclusive residential environment.
Overall
In conclusion, the Circle South project at 522 8th Avenue South represents a significant development in urban living, aiming to blend seamlessly into the existing cityscape while introducing modern residential and amenity spaces. With a thoughtful design approach from Dwell Design Studios and a comprehensive plan that includes a variety of living spaces, community-focused amenities, and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, Circle South is poised to make a notable contribution to the urban character of the area. The proposed expansion to nineteen floors, encompassing 261 residences along with ample amenities and parking, underscores a commitment to enhancing the quality of urban life. This development not only promises to enrich the architectural diversity of the neighborhood but also to foster a sense of community and connectivity within the bustling urban environment.
