Fostering Shared Experiences Through Mixed-Use Development
Edie Weintraub, founder and managing director with terra alma, joins host Carol Morgan for this week’s Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio episode. In this podcast segment, Weintraub discusses how terra alma is prioritizing retail and recreation in mixed-use development to foster shared experiences among residents. Live-Work-Play Weintraub recently worked on a 600-acre mixed-use project in Austin, Texas. The community is a phased 10-year build, so one of the challenges was finding a way to provide retail to residents who move in early on. Alongside a team of urban planners, landscapers and architects, Weintraub developed a plan to build in retail incrementally. First, a model home and pocket park were put in, then an Airstream that conveniently sells coffee in the mornings and small bites and drinks in the evenings. She emphasizes that this is just the first phase of the community, there are still plans for a town green, a micro food hall and much more. The addition of a local market in mixed-use developments, especially with its own subscription service, is a great asset for families and working professionals. “If I have a subscription service for maybe one or two meals a week, it frees me up to perhaps go to my son's water polo game or spend some more time with my other son prepping for the pie he wants to make for his school fundraiser,” said Weintraub. “And so just really incorporating the thought process of how we're living today into the community, to pull the people out of their homes, apartments or condos and really get back together.” Greenspaces are also a key component, providing residents with an accessible connection to nature. Weintraub points out that many families don’t have time to mow their lawns or do landscaping, leading developers to create smaller yards and more extensive community gardens and parks. Residents also value walkability, and it’s important for retail and recreation like coffee shops, grocery stores and gyms to be within walking distance. Exciting Projects on the Atlanta Beltline “What I love about it is that for Atlanta, we don't have a beach, but we do have a beautiful river, and it's kind of tucked away, but our Beltline has become our boardwalk, our beachfront property.” terra alma has partnered with a client on developing Yuji, a sushi restaurant at the base of an office building. Sitting on the edge of the Atlanta Beltline, the restaurant will stay busy thanks to its location and covered, outdoor seating. The Beltline is a huge transportation passage, so as people walk, bike and rollerblade to and from work, Yuji and other businesses reap the benefits. Common Mistakes During Retail Development and How to Avoid Them Weintraub says that it’s so important to bring in retail experts during the design process because it can make the integration of businesses simpler. Here are her top considerations for retail development: Width and depth of the space: If there is not enough room for operations, it will drive away potential leasees. Deliveries and Waste Disposal: Especially with restaurants and coffee shops, it is crucial to have a clear path for employees to receive shipments and take out the trash, but away from consumers’ vision. Parking: This is always a concern with developments of all sizes, but more importantly, within mixed-use spaces. Weintraub recommends a clear navigation system, whether with color-coordination, visual aids or something creative. Although the goal is to promote walkable living, she said you must assume that people will be coming in and out by car and plan accordingly. In addition to her work with terra alma, Weintraub has also launched her own dinner series, “Table for 12,” which brings together 11 strangers and herself for a dinner of fellowship, connection and learning. She also helped relaunch and rebrand Women in Restauran...
