SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned by Cross Properties to design a streetscape and public plaza for a new multi-story, mixed-use building a few blocks from the SEPTA Cynwyd Regional Rail Train Station. Project goals involved making a multi-family “live-work-play” environment with access to an engaging public space reflective of the unique character of historic Bala Village. The new landscape provides flexible space for public events, social gathering, and informal opportunities to relax outdoors. Interventions within the streetscape and plaza help mediate the scale between building and street, and have aided in the revitalization of neighborhood place-making and branding for the Bala Village district.

The design includes extensive tree planting, pedestrian-scale lighting, seating, and streetscape amenities, including bicycle racks, furniture and street trees. By employing a variety of green stormwater infrastructure techniques in the streetscape and plaza, such as porous pavers, underground tree trenches, and rain gardens, the site design establishes a regenerative and holistic approach to natural systems and to urban outdoor spaces.

Collaborators: Yohn Engineering, Bernardon

Perspective Rendering of The Grant Building at the Corner of Union Avenue and Cynwyd Road  //  Rendering by Bernardon