Mixed-use development refers to projects that incorporate various functions within one building or development area, either vertically or horizontally integrated.

Examples range from buildings housing retail shops on the ground level with apartments above to entire urban villages with residential, commercial, office and public spaces – each one requires careful consideration in order to be successful.

Residential

Residential mixed-use projects provide an array of housing options within one neighborhood, making life more diverse. These communities foster community engagement while cultivating a sense of place.

Redevelopment or new construction in urban and suburban infill locations. Achieved through street trees, building articulation and orientation, signage, public spaces, traffic calming or traffic calming measures.

Integrating mixed-use goals into existing comprehensive plans and zoning codes can facilitate projects incorporating mixed use elements. A prime example is Middletown, Delaware which implemented their mixed-use plan through an engagement process and charrette.

Commercial

Mixed-use commercial properties provide investors with an opportunity to diversify their real estate portfolio while creating community spaces. Before making their decision, investors should understand both risks and rewards associated with this form of investment.

Commercial mixed-use developments typically combine different land uses into one building, including retail shops at ground level and residential living space on higher levels. Such developments may occur through either redevelopment or by creating new town centers and downtown areas.

Are these commercial and residential spaces close together offers numerous benefits to both residents and visitors alike. It makes shopping, working, visiting friends and family and dining out easier without needing cars or long commutes; encourages walking, bicycling and public transit use to reduce carbon emissions; promote social cohesion while decreasing loneliness; as well as strengthen local economies through creating jobs and drawing visitors in.

Retail

Retail tenant mixes are integral components of successful mixed use development projects. Selecting an optimal mix of new-to-market concept retailers, authentic local brands and nationally established household names is crucial for retail success at Halcyon in Forsyth County Georgia; their tenant mix was carefully planned out in order to attract their target audience, which led to a 50% increase in visits over its existence.

As tenants increasingly favor sustainable buildings in walkable communities, mixed-use projects represent an ideal approach to urban development. But designing and building such communities presents its own set of unique challenges.

Coordinating construction and operations across multiple types of assets while adhering to complex utility requirements and upkeep protocols are some of the many challenges presented when creating vibrant “cities within cities”. Our teams possess extensive experience managing construction and operational needs for these complexes – including project management, scheduling, budgeting, scope analysis and vendor selection.

Office

Mixed-use properties featuring office spaces can attract tenants with higher lease rates compared to standalone buildings. Furthermore, such mixed-use spaces may attract shoppers and drive sales for local retailers while simultaneously building brand recognition for them.

Real estate investments that rely on multiple income streams are more resilient against economic downfalls, helping reduce maintenance costs and risks for investors.

The Domain in Austin, Texas, is an iconic example of mixed-use development. Comprised of restaurants, shops and offices mixed in with recreational spaces and residential areas for a walkable community experience that is both attractive and welcoming, its mix of restaurants, shops, offices as well as recreational and residential spaces help promote healthier lifestyles while simultaneously improving air quality by reducing vehicle emissions and encouraging healthier lifestyle choices. Furthermore, The Domain offers its community retail jobs as well as maintenance jobs; acting as a catalyst for economic development throughout Austin city limits.