Founders Yard

Project Facts
  • Location: Charleston, South Carolina
  • Client: High Associates
  • Architect: Housing Studio
  • Site Area: 13 acres
  • Units: 341 apartments
The Story

Founders Yard is a vibrant multi-family development in Charleston, South Carolina, where DPR’s landscape architecture expertise has created a rich tapestry of outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy. Working in collaboration with High Associates and Housing Studio architects, we designed a series of amenities and green spaces that complement the 341-unit apartment complex, enhancing the living experience and respecting Charleston’s unique architectural character.

Our landscape design for Founders Yard focused on creating a diverse array of outdoor environments, each tailored to different resident needs and activities. The project begins with a carefully crafted entry and arrival sequence, setting the tone for the development and creating a strong sense of place. The motor court was designed to provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal, ensuring a smooth transition from vehicle to pedestrian spaces.

At the heart of the community lies the pool courtyard, a central gathering space designed for relaxation and social interaction. Complementing this area are outdoor kitchens, providing residents with opportunities for al fresco dining and entertainment. For more active pursuits, we incorporated an expansive active lawn, offering space for sports and group activities.

Recognizing the importance of quiet relaxation, we designed a unique hammock grove, offering a tranquil retreat within the bustling community. This space is balanced by passive lawns, providing open areas for casual use and impromptu gatherings. For pet owners, a dedicated dog park ensures that four-legged residents have their own space to play and socialize.

Throughout the development, our enhanced planting design adds visual interest, improves air quality, and contributes to the overall sense of lush, green living. We carefully selected plant species that thrive in Charleston’s climate while complementing the architectural style of the buildings designed by Housing Studio.

A crucial aspect of our work on Founders Yard was guiding the project through Charleston’s Design Review Board. Our team’s understanding of local design guidelines and historical context was instrumental in securing approvals, ensuring that the landscape design respected and enhanced Charleston’s renowned architectural heritage.

Founders Yard demonstrates how thoughtful landscape architecture can elevate a multi-family development, creating a community that offers more than just housing. By providing a variety of outdoor spaces and amenities, we’ve helped create a living environment that encourages resident interaction, promotes well-being, and fosters a strong sense of community. The project stands as a testament to the power of landscape design in shaping vibrant, livable urban spaces that resonate with both residents and the broader community.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​