Mixed-use developers have an increasingly keen understanding of how their developments contribute to and benefit the overall community. Residents, guests, and customers are now conscious of how their own neighborhoods affect their health and happiness. Mixed-use developers are following suit with the perks and flexibility needed to best accommodate people and businesses alike.

Toyota Music Factory, Irving, Texas

DESIGN TRENDS SHAPING MIXED USE & RETAIL CENTERS

Open space has become a necessary asset.

The pandemic forced retailers to reprioritize open space as an essential part of their layouts. Open space allowed businesses to stay running during the pandemic shutdowns. Now it’s a way to future-proof for potential disruptions since it readily can be adapted for new uses. Communities have come to value open areas for their mixed-use capabilities and seamless integration into the public ecosystem

Biophilic design principles are trending up.

Biophilic design principles are increasingly driving design plans because of their prioritization of public health and sustainability. Integrated green spaces encourage better mental health and well-being by promoting more human reconnection with nature, and they can turn urban industrial spaces into ecologically beneficial areas. The result is a design that is better received by the public and the natural environment.

Communities increasingly want 20-minute neighborhoods.

Mixed-use spaces are crucial for achieving “20-minute neighborhoods,” a concept in which every commercial, residential, and institutional need is within a 20-minute walk or bike ride of each other. Mixed-use developments help facilitate walkability by reimagining single-use residential and commercial blocks as multiuse spaces that cater to a variety of needs and experiences.

Micromobility will continue to displace car traffic.

New mixed-use projects are being designed with micromobility in mind from the start, specifically favoring hop-on shuttles, electric scooters, and bike shares. Many cities now require new developments to be sustainable or net zero, so reducing car traffic is an easy way to meet such mandates. As a result, street space is being reclaimed for parks, outdoor dining, and a variety of uses besides driving and parking.

The Hub on Causeway, Boston

Fifth + Broadway, Nashville, Tenn.

Places that support a variety of activities and behaviors yield better experiences overall. The best environments support a diversity of activities and experiences.

—Gensler Residential Experience Index 2021

The Central Park, Phoenix

This catalytic mixed-use development offers a rich experience for tenants, residents, and visitors, giving new life to Phoenix’s mid-town market. The integrated live, work, and play community includes office, hotel, residential, and retail space, as well as an outdoor plaza. The design fuses nature, culture, and leisure to produce a distinct sense of place.

The Highlight at Houston Center, Houston

EXPLORE RELATED RESEARCH & INSIGHT

How the Intersection of Architecture and Mobility Will Shape the Cities of Tomorrow

It’s clear that cities around the world need new ideas and fresh thinking to improve life and prepare for the challenges of today and tomorrow. Recognizing a shared interest in solving for these complex urban mobility challenges, BMW Designworks and Gensler came together to explore a new range of design ideas for urban living in a project called Architecture X Mobility.

Designing an Innovation District for the City of Austin

Austin’s Innovation District brings together education, entertainment, leisure, and sports. This type of urban, mixed-use center brings in new business and diverse populations, while dynamically enhancing the culture of a city.

Oakland’s Office Space Resurgence: Stitching the Old With the New for a Resilient Future

Oakland is continuing the transformation of its downtown urban core with a series of historic commercial building renovations that are driving a resurgence for creative office space and civic life.

VIEW RELATED RESEARCH

VIEW RELATED BLOGS

BROWSE RELATED PROJECTS