In the vibrant Warehouse District of downtown New Orleans, a new vision for introducing density and modern architecture is situated on Tchoupitoulas Street near the Crescent City Connection overpass. Site constraints and programmatic requirements resulted in design of a sliver building–a type not prevalent in the city, but one which is a viable solution to some of the more difficult underdeveloped parcels of land. With street frontage measuring less than fifty feet, the ten story building is a dramatic element along the street, with stepped volumes and material configuration that help dissolve the overall mass of the structure.

In plan, skewed angles create lively interior spaces for both public and private experience: The ground and second floor house a restaurant, while upper floors contain a series of  18 loft apartments, with the owner’s penthouse situated on the top two floors. Sweeping views of downtown and the river are afforded through use of expansive glazing and exterior balconies increase the quality of life for residents. As a solution to the loss of living area within the small building footprint due to requirements of building services and common areas, enclosed living spaces are extended over the sidewalk at some upper stories; they step back at higher levels to decrease the impact on the street.

Vertical gardens strategically located on the façade soften the building while acting as important water retention systems to alleviate pressure on city storm drains and improving air quality for the area. Other exterior materials include plaster and solid and perforated metal panels. The new materials have an industrial quality that speaks to the nature of the neighborhood; at the same time, the building design is of its time and place, situated to become a part of the enduring architectural landscape of the city where old and new can co-exist in a rich and varied cultural environment.

Renderings by CG Rendering