Lofts @ Morristown
Two former industrial properties sat vacant for years until they were converted into an integrated neighborhood asset.
A former metal scrap yard and defunct telephone building languished for well over a decade, nestled between residential backyards and an elevated rail embankment. Unique physical conditions, such as a lack of road frontage, a sloping rail embankment, and adjacent residences created design challenges. Complicating matters was a complex relationship between two adjacent owners.
As planners for the Town of Morristown, Topology, in collaboration with Common Ground Design, developed a vision for a new community that integrated with the surrounding neighborhood fabric. The concept inspired a renewed collaboration amongst the two owners. The result is a project that established a new model for infill development.
Key insight: The difficulty of coordinating multiple-redevelopers on one project should not be underestimated. Under such circumstances, planners can create value by offering creative solutions that align multiple bottom-lines and keep good projects moving.
Project Team
Phase 1:
Project Developer, ETEP Realty
Project Architect, John B. VanLenten, AIA
Project Engineer, Anderson Consulting Engineers
Phase 2:
Project Developer, Lofts at Morristown, LLC
Project Architect, Billow Garrett Group
Project Engineer, Dynamic Engineering
Municipal:
John Inglesino, Esq., Redevelopment Counsel
Common Ground, Urban Designer
Location
Program
Phase 1 – 37 Stacked Townhomes
Phase 2 – 37 Loft Units
Role
Municipal Planner
Project Category
Redevelopment Plan