West Falls Church Gateway Development
Challenge
The primary challenge of this infill development was dealing with existing grading – some 20+ feet of elevation across one block. The site grading led us to a framework diagram that supported a placemaking environment on a relatively flat section of the site.
Solution
Our Placemaking Team was hired to curate the public realm, open spaces, parks and plazas, as well as the ground level architecture for a multitude of land uses in the district. Our collaboration with landscape and branding consultants led us to a placemaking strategy that celebrates both the history of Falls Church and the future identity of West Falls Church.
- 391,500 SF of Class A office
- proposed hotel
- grocery/restaurant anchored retail mix
- senior housing component
- 245 for sale condominium units
- 288 multi-family apartments
- 40 affordable housing units
- one acre of open space
- civic/entertainment venue
Torti Gallas + Partners Retail + Placemaking Studio Crafts a dynamic mixed-use neighborhood in Falls Church, Virginia
Our approach to this placemaking commission began with our understanding of the client's goals. Out team conducted historic research of Falls Church and its past resident of note to uncover many unique contributions that led to a branding strategy. We crafted the main public space, “The Commons” to be a scalable activation hub that has the ability to flex in size for various programmed events while allowing vehicular access to all parking resources for customers and residents alike. An extensive mural program on building facades further reinforces the branding message and story of the placemaking environment.
Our Retail + Placemaking team was at the table with the client at the project’s inception – creating the first framework drawings that led to the master plan. This project was an RFP response wherein Torti Gallas + Partners teamed with our client to create a compelling design solution to win the RFP. Following the project award, TG+P was awarded the master planning commission, architectural design for two buildings, and our Placemaking Team was awarded the placemaking commission for the entire project.
Our approach to this placemaking commission began with our understanding of the client's goals. Out team conducted historic research of Falls Church and its past resident of note to uncover many unique contributions that led to a branding strategy. We crafted the main public space, “The Commons” to be a scalable activation hub that has the ability to flex in size for various programmed events while allowing vehicular access to all parking resources for customers and residents alike. An extensive mural program on building facades further reinforces the branding message and story of the placemaking environment.
The impact of this development will pave the way for additional development connections to the West Falls Metro Station. This undertaking will give the City of Falls Church a new town center with a great blend of uses and activities. The care and crafting of the placemaking environment will enliven the district and create a fantastic canvas on which memorable experiences will occur.
Torti Gallas is recognized for creating unique and authentic placemaking environments that create value and celebrate communities. Our clients rely on our creativity and know how to make places come to life.
Our Placemaking Team was hired to curate the public realm, open spaces, parks and plazas, as well as the ground level architecture for a multitude of land uses in the district. Our collaboration with landscape and branding consultants led us to a placemaking strategy that celebrates both the history of Falls Church and the future identity of West Falls Church.
What You Do Here Will Make all the Difference
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