Vision
To rebuild an iconic structure while tackling the need for
smaller, more cost-effective housing.
This proposed mixed-use project retains Langley’s premier
pinball arcade and the only laundromat south of Oak Harbor, while transforming unused interior spaces to residential use.
Housing in the form of studio and
one-bedroom apartments will provide up to twelve residences within easy walking
distance of the town center and community transit.
Sustainable design and technology are fundamental to the project goals and will be evidenced throughout.
Virtual Tour
The Site
This corner lot provides good business frontage with excellent pedestrian and vehicular access.
We have proposed removing some of the existing storage lockers and increasing the landscaped area for beautification reasons. The parking area has been increased to accommodate the proposed housing needs.
The site has some attractive qualities including: unfettered solar access, a city park across the street, and views of the Cascade Mountains from the upper floor.
Main Floor
Upgrading to conform to modern codes and safety standards can be undertaken with modest changes to the building form. The intent is to retain existing businesses and focus the alterations on the undeveloped portions of the building.
Main floor residences will consist of one fully accessible unit and one live/work unit. The latter is a flex space that can be utilized either as an independent unit or in combination with adjacent commercial space.
A new service wing featuring accessible bathrooms is designed to replace the very tired facilities currently in place. The rental storage lockers will be converted to bike lockers for the residents to help provide green transportation options. Two sets of stairs are proposed to access the upper floor – on the north side and at the laundromat entry porch.
The perimeter landscape will be enhanced significantly to soften the building exterior and enliven the street.
Upper Floor
Two one-bedroom units and eight studio apartments are proposed for the upper floor, as well as a common space and outdoor deck.
A ridge skylight runs down the central hallway providing natural daylight to the interior. All of the apartments will feature lofts to take full advantage of the tall interior spaces. The existing wood ceiling will remain, lending the apartments a warm industrial beauty.
Windows on the upper floor will be enlarged to increase natural light, ventilation, and views of the surroundings. Each apartment will be somewhat unique because one size does not fill when it comes to crafting a home.
