Completed Project
Project Overview
The client purchased a decommissioned hotel, which had suffered significant damage from a fire that destroyed one side of the building. The remaining structure was vacant, and the parking lot was in disrepair, leaving the property with an abandoned appearance. The client’s vision was to transform this neglected site into an apartment complex catering to both retirees and working individuals who may not have access to transportation. A key part of the project involved repurposing one-third of the parking lot into a community gathering space with recreational features, offering a welcoming and functional environment for residents.
Project Location
This project was located in Live Oak, Florida, in a residential setting. The site, originally a decommissioned hotel, was slated for transformation into a functional and appealing apartment complex.
Scope of Work
The project involved the design and construction of several landscape and recreational elements, including a shade sail structure, a putting green, and concrete walkways and pads. Additionally, segmented walls were installed along with artificial turf and a bocce ball court, which was enclosed with fencing to provide a defined and enjoyable recreational area for residents.
Design Inspiration
The design focused on creating a central gathering space for residents, incorporating a concrete pad covered by a shade sail structure to provide a dynamic, shaded environment. The owner wanted the landscape to be as low-maintenance as possible, so elements like artificial turf were used along with recreational amenities, including a putting green and a bocce ball court. Given the property's prominent exposure along one of the main highways entering the city, we aimed to distinguish the space from others in the area, reimagining the layout to make it not just a place to live but a fun and vibrant community. Additionally, we addressed existing structural challenges, such as a series of columns that ran the length of the property, by installing galvanized water troughs filled with plant materials and incorporating an irrigation system. To resolve drainage issues, a channel drain system was installed, redirecting water to the ditch at the front of the property. The burned units were demolished, and in their place, we created a recreational area featuring a bocce ball court and an adjacent bark park for residents to enjoy with their pets.
Highlight Features
This project stands out due to its thoughtfully reimagined design, featuring a shade sail structure that provides an inviting outdoor space for residents. The serpentine walkways, paired with artificial turf, add a modern and cohesive flow throughout the property. Additionally, custom planters and pavers contribute to the unique aesthetic, setting this development apart from any other property in the area.
Materials Used
The project utilized a variety of materials to create functional and visually appealing hardscapes, including pavers, wall block, shade sails, and planters. Artificial turf and artificial plants were installed to keep maintenance low, while a fully integrated irrigation system ensures plant health. Recreational features, such as the bocce ball court, were incorporated to enhance the residents' experience.
Outcome
The completed landscape transformed the property from an abandoned and fire-damaged hotel into a vibrant and inviting apartment community. The design added value and met the client's goals of creating a low-maintenance, resident-friendly space by incorporating artificial turf, shade sails, and recreational features like the bocce ball court and putting green. The reimagined outdoor area became a central gathering place, encouraging interaction among residents while offering a modern aesthetic that distinguished the property from others in the area. Additionally, the thoughtful inclusion of drainage solutions and irrigation systems ensured the long-term functionality of the landscape. The overall impact was a revitalized property that not only attracted new residents but also became a standout community in the city.