Early in our project, our discussions with AvalonBay focused on how profoundly Redmond is changing. The tech-centered city already had office parks, low-rise, and single-family homes. Designing in accordance with the goals of the Redmond zoning code and the Overlake Village Master Plan, our projects for AvalonBay would bring contemporary building character and amenities to this multifamily housing project on the outskirts of Redmond, directly across from Microsoft’s Redmond campus. And it’s already been a great success: Our designs for the two buildings are among AvalonBay’s best performing, most successful projects regarding leasability. Esterra Park includes two seven-story, mixed-use buildings with underground parking for residents and guests. Drawing from our previous experience with Avalon, we designed both blocks to relate, to share references and some amenities, despite targeting different demographics. Because these buildings are the gateway to the entire Esterra Park development, both Avalon and the city of Redmond knew—as we do—the importance of designing them well, and for a multicultural demographic. So we carefully balanced the two buildings, working closely with AvalonBay to tailor their brands and our amenities to fit different demographics. Avalon’s north building, AVA Esterra Park appeals to established residents; common spaces accommodate co-working, family time, and entertaining. Our exterior architectural design concept recalls that of a tailored suit: refined, woven, juxtaposing rigid lines and organic elements. External materials modulate, giving textural and layering interest. Balconies project from all facades and graphically “stitch” the outer shell to the core building. The overall language of the building is clean and contemporary; our proposed material palette, superior design, and building composition will give a feeling of quality and permanence to the neighborhood and to the block. Avalon Esterra Park is designed for effortless, living, with space for social interaction and weekend relaxation driving the highly approachable amenity spaces. A unified design melds the city’s past and present through a diverse materials palette—a transparent, crafted base represents Redmond’s history; sleek, modern boxes of housing units float above the base and represent Redmond’s present and future in tech. Together, both buildings forge strong connections to the nearby urban park with a shared courtyard, giving weekend warriors and families opportunities for adventure right outside.