Project: Jackson Ward
Multi-family Unit Renovation 30,000 SF
This interior design project focuses on the revitalization of affordable housing within the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood of Richmond, Virginia—an area rich in African American cultural heritage and once known as the “Harlem of the South.” The design approach is grounded in community-first principles, celebrating the neighborhood’s identity while creating dignified, functional, and inspiring living environments for residents of all ages.
The scope includes the interior design of multi-family residential units and shared communal spaces, aiming to balance cost-effective solutions with design integrity. Thoughtful material selection, natural light access, and warm textures are prioritized to foster comfort, wellness, and a sense of belonging.
Community engagement is central to the design process. The project team collaborated with residents, neighborhood leaders, and housing advocates to ensure spaces reflect the lived experiences, aspirations, and daily needs of those who call Jackson Ward home. The design celebrates the neighborhood’s legacy through culturally informed design elements—such as curated color stories, local art, and historical references that preserve the past while looking toward the future.
This project stands as a model for how design can restore connection, pride, and equity in underinvested communities, proving that affordable housing can—and should—be beautiful, resilient, and rooted in place.
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