Nestled in the heart of Cary at the intersection of Cary Parkway and James Jackson, Preston Ridge is a multifamily and townhouse development.
A harmonious balance of nature and architecture
Originally an old radio tower site on a forested hillside with streams and wetlands, one of the primary challenges was maximizing the site program while balancing cut and fill and protecting environmental features and trees.
To achieve this goal, WithersRavenel’s landscape architects and engineers collaborated on the marriage of infrastructure with amenity design to create several unique features. This included a courtyard with a large bioretention area that was treated as an amenity and filled with native trees, shrubs, and perennials to provide not only function, but also seasonal interest. A boardwalk bridge crosses over the bioretention area, and trails and patio/seating spaces encircle it.
Other opportunities included placement of dog parks and open space areas over stormwater vaults.
Alley-loaded projects offer new development possibilities
This was also one of the first—if not the first—townhouse developments that front on a courtyard promenade in Cary. WithersRavenel worked with the Town to create a standard detail for alley-loaded projects like these that they can use for future projects.
“Work from anywhere”
The site was designed with the philosophy of work from anywhere, with lots of opportunities to plug in and sit either alone or with others outside. Other amenities include an outdoor cross-fit workout station, a lap-sized swimming pool, multiple outdoor kitchens and eating spaces, and active and passive recreation areas. Once completed, it will be the true embodiment of live, work, play in Cary.
Coming soon
Having been recommended by the Town of Cary to the client, Akridge and Kettler, WithersRavenel has provided civil engineering, landscape architecture, geomatics, and environmental services. The site is under construction now.