EPTDESIGN Matthew Hall developers Residences at Pacific City GlobeSt.com: Tell us about EPTDESIGN'S involvement in the Residences at Pacific City project and the unique elements it brings to the area. Hall: acquisition UDR residential MVE + Partners development GlobeSt.com: What were the major considerations for renter needs as far as outdoor amenities and the overall landscape design? Hall: GlobeSt.com: What components of the landscape design bring historic relevance and reference to the project? Hall: GlobeSt.com: How does the landscape design for the project address sustainability issues, including water conservation? Hall: GlobeSt.com: Landscape design seems to be playing a much larger role in projects these days. How has the expectation of having functional outdoor spaces shifted landscape design in the past few years—especially in the luxury multifamily housing market? Hall:

• Space: In the ever-competitive world of development, we've seen unit sizes reduce dramatically over the years and density rise. Smaller units could be desired for financial reasons, or for the fact that some users don't spend prolonged periods of time at home. The landscape areas become all-the-more crucial to provide that flexible space for residents—to entertain, relax, and gather.
• Amenities: In the past, a community with a pool, spa and traditional fitness center might be considered adequate for the average resident. Today, residents demand more, and developers are getting creative to offer these dynamic amenities in both interior and exterior spaces. Gourmet cooking pavilions, demonstration kitchens, bicycle lounges, and spaces dedicated to dog owners are just a few of the spaces found in today's multifamily communities. This push to create innovative and useful outdoor spaces makes our work more meaningful and fun.
• Nature: The residents in today's multifamily communities are a diverse group. Their needs vary. In our recent work, we are seeing a dramatic shift to the appreciation and understanding of the landscape environments. In Silicon Valley, recent polls show that there is a strong desire for the typical tech employee to have a residence with strong ties to nature. This focus has pushed us to create landscape environments of authenticity, using natural materials, and instilling a strong sense of nature.
• Community: “One size fits all” isn't a term applicable to landscape design in multifamily residential communities. Our work continues to emphasize the creation of landscape spaces for everyone. Groups of one, two or 20 should find spaces within their community that they can find comfort. We strive to create spaces that are multi-generational, to allow children to interact with parents and grandparents. And we strive to create spaces that are multi-functional throughout the day, to allow outdoor space to offer a greater opportunity for the residents.