Dahlin Group Picked for Nationals Charette
Design Challenge Aimed at Gen Y Women
Pleasanton, Calif., November 19—One of just five firms nationally to present to the “Architects Design Challenge” at the Big Builder conference, Dahlin Group Architecture Planning offered a stylish village concept geared to WINKS—Gen Y Women With Incomes and No Kids. John Thatch, AIA, Dahlin Group’s principal/vice president of design, presented “Modjeska Courts” to leading builder/developers, economists and related experts at the conference, held November 3-5 in Washington, D.C. Visit www.dahlingroup.com to see the complete presentation.
“WINKS outpace their male counterparts in purchasing power, and builders who address their aspirations can attract a significant market segment,” said John McManus editorial director for Big Builder, Developer and Multifamily Executive. “ We were delighted to have professionals of Dahlin Group’s quality presenting creative and site-sensitive concepts for very diverse market areas.”
Big Builder reviewed multiple submittals from its national readership before selecting Dahlin Group for the conference charrette, which drew some 200 participants. The firm’s design addresses an infill parcel in Southern California’s Orange County with zoning, site and neighborhood challenges.
The result is Modjeska Courts, named for Helena Modjeska, a late 19th century Polish actress who made the Mission Viejo area her home “We took inspiration from the WINKs of Hollywood’s Golden Era— independent, stylish and sophisticated career professionals,” explained Thatch. “
Dahlin Group’s intimate village plan transitions to adjacent neighborhood retail and features a green belt connected to city parks, trails and open space. Outdoor fireplaces, pool and spa, water features and a community garden highlight the site plan. Homes meld modern amenities with the classic appeal of porches and courtyards that extend living spaces and connect with paseos and streets.
“Always, the goal is design that provides a compelling reason to purchase—even during a downturn,” said Thatch. “And while we paid special attention to WINKs, we created flexible design that appeals to varied profiles.”
Dahlin Group Architecture Planning is a full-service architecture and planning firm noted for site-specific housing types and large-scale planning expertise. Offices are in Pleasanton, Irvine, and Solana Beach, California; and in Beijing, China. The firm offers the latest computer animation technology through its Digital Imaging Studio in San Francisco. See www.dahlingroup.com.
Big Builder ’08 is produced in cooperation with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Hanley Wood publications BUILDER and Big Builder host and manage the conference. See www.bigbuilder.com.
