2024 Summer Issue of Urban Land - 69

Transforming
Urban
Housing
Through
Placemaking
Exploring how placeled
housing design
can unlock a city's full
potential
JOSE SANCHEZ
If the past two years have taught us
anything, it's that our society's deep
desire to return to " normal " has sparked
a reevaluation of what normal should
entail. As urban populations continue
to grow, and individuals look to reclaim
their place in the community, the question
arises: have our downtowns evolved
enough to meet these new demands?
Reactivating our urban cores and
transforming them into vibrant, accessible
districts that provide fresh dining
choices, retail opportunities, office
spaces, entertainment options, green
space, and a broader selection of affordable
housing through purposeful placement
is the key to community restoration.
When
applied to housing projects
specifically, placemaking principles can
transform dwellings into integral components
of thriving neighborhoods. Placeled
housing embraces the idea that a
home is not just a physical structure
but a part of a larger ecosystem-somewhere
that residents can connect with
one another and with their surroundings.
This practice also emphasizes equity
and inclusivity by ensuring that people
of all ages, incomes, and backgrounds
have access to safe, affordable, and dignified
housing. Placemaking principles
such as universal design, mixed-income
housing, and accessible amenities can
foster social equity and break down
barriers to participation. By integrating
placemaking principles into housing
design and development, cities can
create neighborhoods that are not only
livable but also resilient for future generations.
Redefining
urban living
Innovative housing design pushes the
boundaries of conventional architecture
by reimagining the urban dwelling as a
nexus of functionality, sustainability, and
aesthetic appeal. Such designs prioritize
efficiency, flexibility, and adaptability,
thereby reflecting the diverse lifestyles,
identities, and aspirations of evolving
modern city dwellers.
In Wichita, Kansas, housing planning
for the Riverfront District development
transcends traditional norms, leveraging
its dynamic environment to redefine
urban living. Centered on Riverfront Stadium,
home to the Wichita Wind Surge,
this mixed-use destination captures that
energy and naturally integrates housing
into the neighborhood and with the
Arkansas River. This forward-thinking
design prioritizes accessibility, enrichment,
and community building, ensuring
an energetic atmosphere for residents
and visitors alike.
By harmonizing housing, hospitality,
retail, food and beverage, and transportation
within a unified master plan spanning
25 acres (10 ha), the development
welcomes a new era of place-led housing.
This approach elevates the urban
experience and activates the surrounding
streetscape to foster a dynamic hub
where residents can effortlessly blend
living, working, and leisure activities, all
The Riverfront District concept in Wichita, Kansas, is a mix of uses with housing centered on Riverfront Stadium.
SUMMER 202 4
URBAN LAND
69
INDUSTRY VOICES
DLR GROUP
2024 Summer Issue of Urban Land

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of 2024 Summer Issue of Urban Land
