Riverpark comprises an entire city block in the Freemason Historic District and fronts on one of downtown Norfolk’s boat basins on the Elizabeth River. This site is not only sensitive to its historic context and heritage from the shipping/trade era of the mid 1800’s, but offers a commanding view up the river and is an urban redevelopment in the round with 4 exposed prominent facades. It is the last pocket available for urban infill in this part of downtown. The planning goals maximize the site limits with a zero-lot line building relationship. Each face addresses the sidewalk and engages the pedestrian with carefully scaled outdoor living spaces defined by landscaped gardens, terraces, and elevated porches. These details engulf the buildings’ facades and bring balance to this significant building mass and fresh architectural style while showing respect to many of Norfolk’s surrounding heritage structures.

Special waterfront planning considerations include respect for urban view corridors to the water from inner city vantage points, flood plain design, and concealment of the increased density parking needs.

VIA liasoned a complex team of stakeholders for the success of this project to include Norfolk’s Redevelopment and Housing Authority (the land holders), City Public Officials, the Planning Commission, Norfolk’s Design Review Committee, the City’s urban planning consultants, Zoning, Permits and Inspections Department, and of course the developer, located in Connecticut, along with their builder.