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At a time when urban living across America is plagued by high prices and low inventory, HWKN introduced affordable living solutions with the recent opening of "Building D at GRAVITY 2.0". Most of its 101 apartments are designed to be shared: individual bedrooms and bathrooms designed with group living and dining areas. It has a simple exterior grid, while the strategic carving away of steps at this southwest corner compliments the adjacent Solazzo building. The inside offers group dining areas, kitchens, two lounges, a gym, a meditation room, and a ‘grab & go.’ Outside offers a courtyard, a pool, barbecues, and community gardens.
Situated between the West Broad Street neighborhood and East Franklinton’s Arts and Innovation district, Building D adds to the area's already unique design history, which has seen factories turned into artists' lofts and affordable single-family homes being built. Building D brings not only innovative living solutions but something even more sought-after: affordability. Building D addresses the sense of isolation associated with conventional apartment buildings by including retail spaces on the ground floor, as well as its outdoor courtyards, and individual terraces, not to mention accessible pet areas. Its design promotes sociability and liveliness.
Gravity represents a groundbreaking departure from traditional notions of apartment living, offering a blend of private sanctuaries and communal areas that cater to the evolving preferences of the next generation of Americans. By reimagining the spatial dynamics of residential architecture, Building D challenges long-held perceptions of urban dwelling, setting a new standard for contemporary living. One of the most remarkable aspects of Building D is its commitment to affordability without compromising on quality or amenities. In an era where housing costs continue to rise, particularly in urban centers, Building D stands out as a beacon of accessibility, providing an opportunity for individuals and families to enjoy the benefits of city living without the exorbitant price tag.
Gravity offers a holistic living experience that transcends the physical confines of its structure. It fosters a sense of community and connection, inviting residents to engage with their surroundings and each other in meaningful ways. Building D embodies a vision for the future of urban living—a vision characterized by innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. By harnessing the power of imaginative design and forward-thinking planning, HWKN has created a living space that not only meets the needs of today's urban dwellers but also inspires and excites younger Ohioans, setting a new standard for residential development in the region. Gravity does what others have neglected to do in the past, it gives those seeking an affordable, yet inviting residence, a place to expand what they know, and reimagine what affordable housing actually means. The design of Gravity Building D is carefully crafted to promote sociability and liveliness and redefines the urban living experience, offering a vibrant and interconnected community where residents can truly feel at home.
Building D distinguishes itself from conventional apartment structures by incorporating a multifaceted approach to combat the pervasive sense of isolation often encountered in urban living environments. This approach is characterized by numerous key features like community gathering spaces and retail stores on the ground floor that foster a dynamic atmosphere where residents can interact with both their neighbors and the broader community.
HWKN is an award-winning, New York-based global architectural innovation firm led by Matthias Hollwich, alongside partners Jessica Knobloch, Dorin Baul, Robert May, and Olga Snowden. The firm’s diverse portfolio includes buildings and neighborhoods alike, from retail spaces and popup-installations to residential and commercial schemes in the United States, Middle East, and Europe, with collaborating offices in Munich, Miami, Berlin, Riyadh, and London. HWKN creates unforgettable architecture by designing from the outside in, shaping spaces that turn buildings into social activators, identity markers, and happiness enhancers. The creative strategy is extended into the inside of the building, introducing new operational typologies. Here the future of real estate is taking shape, creating buildings for generations to come. Honored in Fast Company’s ranking of the world’s top 10 most innovative architects, the design team shapes the future for people, communities and investors.
