SAN DIEGO—Some multifamily properties are providing free bike-share programs for residents since many don't want to drive anymore, TCA Architects' principal and studio director Irwin Yau tells GlobeSt.com. As we recently reported, TCA Architects has just revealed its plans for Millennium Mission Valley, a large-scale mixed-use residential community here owned by the Dinerstein Cos., composed of 291 contemporary apartment homes, 14 "shopkeeper" live-work units and 9,000 square feet of retail space. We spoke exclusively with Yau about the project, what the name reflects and the walkability features that are emerging in multifamily design.
GlobeSt.com: What stands out for you the most about Millennium Mission Valley?
Yau: Dinerstein really wanted to provide top-notch amenity spaces for this property. The amount of square footage and variation of amenity spaces is generally more than what we would normally see in this project type. We have three different courtyard spaces for residents, with a very large pool area. A 4,000-square-foot public-plaza space is available to the residents and the public. In addition to that, there is more than 10,000 square feet of resident amenity space, which includes a fitness center, yoga room, roof decks, lounge spaces, clubroom, business center, aqua lounge and a dedicated kids' play room.
GlobeSt.com: Is the name a reflection of the Millennial population that is so drawn to apartments?
Yau: The name "Millennium" is part of the client's branding for its luxury-apartment properties. Though it was not named specifically to reflect the Millennial population, we did design with them in mind.
GlobeSt.com: What new walkability features are you seeing emerge in apartment and mixed-use design?
Yau: Whenever possible, I think residents don't want to drive anymore. If they have access to good public or alternative transportation, they will utilize it. We are seeing an increase in bike storage and bike-repair amenities because residents are really using those spaces. Some properties are providing free bike- share programs.
GlobeSt.com: What trends are you noticing in mixed-use design?
Yau: Projects over the last couple years have all trended toward having a more hospitality feel. They are providing more full services for residents, like a nice upscale hotel would. Also, as more growing families want to stay in urban locations, we are seeing some cities and projects trend toward wanting larger units. Projects are incorporating more three-bedrooms and family-focused amenities.
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Carrie Rossenfeld
Carrie Rossenfeld is a reporter for the San Diego and Orange County markets on GlobeSt.com and a contributor to Real Estate Forum. She was a trade-magazine and newsletter editor in New York City before moving to Southern California to become a freelance writer and editor for magazines, books and websites. Rossenfeld has written extensively on topics including commercial real estate, running a medical practice, intellectual-property licensing and giftware. She has edited books about profiting from real estate and has ghostwritten a book about starting a home-based business.
