Cranbrook Educational Community requested a proposal that would provide a design concept for additional K-12 faculty housing.  A plan was developed to set the new units across the lane directly opposite the existing units. This would create and reinforce an internal streetscape where built form and open space would have a direct relationship with one another. Of great importance was maintaining the open area between the buildings to accentuate a spatial connection from the river and road through and into the woods. Maintaining the scale of the existing structures without replication will give the new units an individual character without overshadowing what is there. 

Planning

The topography and character of the site changes dramatically on the east side of the lane as the site grade rises quickly and is bounded by dense trees. Split-level housing keeps parking and garages at the level of the drive with the main level of the units at a higher elevation. Public courtyards are also at the higher level giving a broader view to the west, as well as private outdoor spaces facing into the woods. Again, working with the change in topography and the river, several units are designed to have their garage and entrance positioned to provide wheelchair accessibility.

ARCHITECT: Swanson Meads Architects