The Yard is a mixed use complex ready to break ground any day. It will stretch from Virginia, north, almost to Lake Formosa along the east side of the SunRail tracks, and relocate Alden Road. Its 7 story apartment façade will have great views across Lake Ivanhoe beyond, and it includes 630 residential and about 56,905 square feet of commercial space. The aesthetic is industrial Chic, with lots of exposed cross-braced steel framing, glass and brick.
A Phase 2 expansion of the Yard will be reviewed by the city in December. The second-phase plan shows 2.9 acres of new development, 174 dwelling units, approximately 63,000 square feet of commercial space and an integrated parking garage, on the south side of Virginia. Mostly 4 stories, with a taller office block above, it would wrap around the popular Hideaway Bar on Virginia, which plans to remain. Its aesthetic is a bit more sophisticated, with an undulating metal screen, softening the composition.
The first phase of The Yard and the proposed second phase are using the same architect, Baker Barrios, and engineering company, Littlejohn.
Read the complete article by Paul Brinkmann in the Orlando Sentinel, with more information, plans and photos of both phases, at this link: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/brinkmann-on-business/os-the-yard-crossman-20151029-post.html