Acheson Doyle Partners Architects, P.C.’s Post

We are thrilled to announce that Camp Greenville has received a generous $200,000 grant from the Fred Symmes Foundation to bring much-needed improvements to the iconic Fred W. Symmes "Pretty Place" Chapel. Construction will take place in 2025. The planned enhancements include: 1. Handicap-Accessible Ramp to the Cross: This addition will ensure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can access the chapel's most revered spot. 2. Replacement of Wood Benches with Sustainable Composite Material: The new benches will not only be more durable and weather-resistant but also align with our commitment to environmental sustainability. 3. Bathroom Structure Improvements: Upgraded restroom facilities will enhance the overall visitor experience, making the chapel more comfortable and accommodating for all. https://lnkd.in/euKDb-E4

Historic preservation is critical to urban development and cultural conservation and offers various economic, social and cultural benefits. These benefits range from economic stimulation through job creation and tourism to fostering community bonds and preserving cultural narratives. In this #IndustryInsight, RDG Architect Scotney Fenton, AIA, explores the benefits of preserving historic structures and delves into the rich history of the Civic Center Historic District, including key RDG projects that helped rejuvenate this iconic area of downtown Des Moines, Iowa. https://loom.ly/11ugpBc

Albany, California, is a treasure trove of history, particularly evident in its historic homes that paint a picture of the past. These residences not only offer unique architectural charm but also serve as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. Exploring Albany's historic districts can be like walking through a living museum, where each home tells its own story. For those interested in buying or investing, historic homes in Albany offer several benefits. They often occupy prime locations in well-established neighborhoods that rarely lose their appeal. Additionally, owning a historic home can be a point of pride and a commitment to preserving a piece of history. However, potential buyers should be aware of the responsibilities that come with owning such properties. Historic homes can require more maintenance and care, and there may be restrictions on renovations to preserve their architectural integrity. Whether you're a history enthusiast or looking for a home with character, Albany's historic homes offer a unique opportunity to connect with the past while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere. #AlbanyCA #HistoricHomes #RealEstateInvestment #ArchitecturalHeritage #HomeBuying #PreserveHistory #UniqueHomes #RealEstateDiscoveries

Spare a few minutes to read my guest post for Urban Spalsh, focusing on Port Loop we discuss the many benefits of green, community led development… Howells

This week's stories from Stet showcase the dynamic landscape of Palm Beach County, from urban development to local politics and community initiatives: 1. 🏗️ CityPlace Transformation: The historic Harriet Himmel Theater's grand stairway is undergoing significant changes, sparking debates and raising the question: what does this mean for West Palm Beach's historical preservation? 2. 🏙️ Riviera Beach Politics Heat Up: Mayor‘s investigation takes aim at City Manager. With 33 employees voicing concerns, what's next for the city's administration? 3. 🏘️ Affordable Housing Progress: Berkeley Landing, a new 112-unit affordable housing project, opens its doors in Riviera Beach. Learn how this public-private partnership is addressing housing needs in our community. 4. 🍝 Local Dining Scene Updates: The beloved Pelican Cafe in Lake Park changes hands, while new restaurants emerge across the county. Discover the latest in Palm Beach County's evolving culinary landscape. 5. 🌸 Art Meets Architecture: Don't miss our feature on Ben Leone's stunning "Orchid City" installation in downtown West Palm Beach. This five-story sculpture is more than just art – it's a statement on progress and preservation in our growing city. Stay informed, stay engaged. Read the full stories and more: #PalmBeachCounty #LocalNews #CommunityJournalism #UrbanDevelopment #PublicArt

Today marks the beginning of Reconciliation Week, an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the rich history of the oldest surviving culture in the world. Now more than ever, there is a need to continue the reconciliation journey. Reconciliation gives us the opportunity to learn about shared histories, cultures, and achievements. Our Urban Design Strategy aims to achieve this by connecting people and place by integrating Kaurna history through stories and design. Reflecting on the urban design strategy and principles, Angie Johnson, Aboriginal Liaison Officer (T2D) says, “I appreciate the comprehensive work done during the planning phase (of the Project), which has ensured a culturally integrated approach.” Below are some of the key objectives of the strategy: - Explore use of Kaurna language, including naming or dual naming of places and new infrastructure - Help heal Kaurna Country by incorporating locally endemic plant species - Develop creative design to retain and protect existing trees - Use materials, colours, textures, finishes that draw inspiration from local landscape.   Read more about the Urban Design Strategy and the outlined outcomes here: https://lnkd.in/gushXVKj

A rather rhetorical question in the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) article, but not too difficult: "how do we make sure that it makes our city better than worse?" Apartment buildings (which is what State government proposes) can make the area better under certain conditions: 1/ The development is led by the community of future owners of those apartments. It does not matter if they are investors or occupiers. But they will ensure that the building is designed to their budget and needs. Buildings delivered by developers and sold without regard to people's needs will become transient and most occupants will leave them if they become unhappy there. 2/ There is a coherent community with a developed sense of self-governance, using some proven framework like sociocracy for decision making. This ensures that disputes are solved to everyone's satisfaction and management of the owner's corporation is not handed to a money-hungry strata business that will establish the highest fee possible that owners would pay without selling off. 3/ There is some integration of the new group of residents with the environment - so there are amenities beside it being close to the railway. For example a green space, school, basic shops and hospitality. This could ensure a good negihbourhood. 😊

🏛️ Transforming Heritage: A New Life for Belgrave's Empty Church 🏡 In the heart of Leicester's Belgrave conservation area stands an empty church with untapped potential, just waiting to be brought back to life. Could this be the solution to the empty homes crisis? Imagine transforming this architectural gem into stunning residential spaces that blend historical charm with modern living. While converting historic buildings is no small feat—balancing preservation with innovation—it's a challenge worth tackling for the immense rewards it offers. This project not only promises to enhance the local landscape but also to contribute to the vibrant community spirit that defines Belgrave. 🔍 Join me as we explore this unique opportunity and envision how a majestic church can evolve into a thriving residential hub. Let's discuss the intricacies of property development, the importance of urban renewal, and the impact such transformations can have on our communities. 🤝 I invite you to share your experiences and insights on historic building conversions. How can we best navigate the challenges to create sustainable and inspiring living spaces? Your thoughts are invaluable to this ongoing conversation about innovation and community impact. #UrbanRenewal #PropertyDevelopment #BelgraveTransformation #HistoricPreservation #CommunityImpact #InnovationInRealEstate

Micro Mass Timber: Hillside, the Farrow designed reimagining of affordable, urban, intergenerational living, consisting of a mix of suites including elder one bedroom, family two and three bedroom, and shown here, studios. All have their own terrace, with its own tree. Prefabricated, mass timber, environmental enrichment, generosity, dignity: constructing health. In development for the European market. “In the world we live, each one of the three generations who will call this community home - children, young parents and elders- have many challenges in their life journey, which encourages them come together to share, and to create salus, within the bosom of this communities. Each age group will establish in their own mind the brand values that the common circles have on offer, through a personalize, affordable, sustainable, flourishing community experience.” More at: constructinghealth.ca #causehealth #constructinghealth #enrichedenvironments #architecture #salutogenesis #farrowpartners

As someone who is deeply invested in the future of our urban environments, check out our urban manifesto outlining some thoughtful approaches to revitalizing downtown LA. It’s not just about transforming physical spaces but finding ways to breathe life into our communities by addressing some of the major issues that affect our urban centers—accessibility, sustainability, and public engagement. These ideas—like cable cars, green rooftop spaces, and public cultural hubs—show what’s possible when we rethink how to use our cities' spaces for both functionality and connection. There’s a lot of value at stake here, not just economically, but in terms of community well-being and creating environments where people want to live, work, and gather. The challenges of urban revitalization are immense, but so are the opportunities. I hope we can continue to explore innovative, practical ways to tackle these problems and shape a better future for all of our city centers.