Project Description

Galena Rowhouse

The Galena Rowhouse is located in the Peninsula Neighborhood, a new neighborhood being built in the heart of Iowa City overlooking the Iowa River. The ongoing development of the neighborhood is guided by a form-based code utilizing the principles of New Urbanism. The Peninsula Neighborhood includes a mix of single family and multi-family residences arranged along a compact network of streets featuring small, formal parks and neighborhood commercial at its center.

Our Client requested that we study the architectural elements and patterns of the historic rowhouses of Galena Illinois to create the street façade for this rowhouse building. While the neighborhood design code requires the buildings to present a high-quality architectural presence on the street, the marketing team placed a high priority on taking advantage of the views of the surrounding natural ravine and open space from the rear of the units. The design solution was to place the alley accessed garage at the basement level allowing the dining area and screened porch to overlook and capture the views from an elevated vantage point.

The resulting main floor living space features an open concept floor plan for the living, dining and kitchen areas with expansive open space views and outdoor spaces unusual for this building type. Two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, are located on the upper level, with the master suite enjoying the open space view and privacy away from the street.

 

Project Data

PROJECT TYPE: Residential Multi-Story Rowhouse

UNIT SIZES: 1476 Square Feet + 2-Car Garage

ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES PROVIDED: Design, Construction Documents

PROJECT STATUS: Completed Spring 2013