Lyric at Norton Commons

2023 Silver Aurora Award: Best Mixed Use Project (SEBC)

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Accessibility, connectivity, and smart land use were all primary factors we had to keep in mind as we put the site plan together. The location sits within the larger Norton Commons TND complex, which has stringent development guidelines, detailed approval processes, and an overall traditional architectural style that must be maintained.

Lyric is a mixed-use development with 12,000 sf of retail, so despite the changing elevation it was crucial to achieve retail connection to the street level without the use of steps, which can create barriers to access. Similarly, a 5-level pre-cast parking garage with exits at common levels would need to connect both the residents and retail.

Our solution came in the form of breaking the building up into cleverly designed, hidden splits. This allowed us to respond to changes in grade internally while still preserving a unified exterior building appearance. We were able to maintain the preferable and affordable wood structure construction type throughout the development, and it resulted in significant cost savings for ownership.

This creative mindset is reflected not only in the unit mix, which features 273 units and 24 different varieties, but in amenitizing the spaces as well. Multiple courtyards provide residents with gathering areas, each with a unique vibe and purpose. The connection walkway between the two larger courtyards crosses an elevation shift, so we used this to our advantage and created a residential theater with elevated stadium-type seating. Throughout the community, adaptive thinking and a great deal of structural coordination turned what could have been irregular or unused spaces into positives that could only be achieved with this unique site. An outstanding ownership group left no stone unturned to make sure all areas of the project were reviewed in detail and well thought out.

A great project requires a great client, and we were fortunate to work with Bristol Development on Lyric. Bristol isn’t afraid of taking on challenging sites, and together with our collaborative team of partner companies, we built a community that will truly have a lasting impact.