THE CHRISTOPHER & THE GRAHAM
Columbus, Ohio
CHALLENGE
This historic Italian Village site presented an opportunity to transforming underutilized parcels into a vibrant mixed-use destination that honors the neighborhood's rich architectural heritage while creating innovative spaces where people can live, work, and connect in meaningful ways.
SOLUTION
WSA crafted a visionary development that breathes new life into the urban fabric through a thoughtful blend of preservation and innovation. By rediscovering the site's original two-parcel layout, we restored a historic alley as a pedestrian-friendly corridor, reweaving the neighborhood's traditional urban pattern while creating new addresses in a time of housing scarcity.
The development's three distinct buildings create a harmonious ensemble that respects the past while embracing the future. At 893 N. 4th, a flexible four-story structure anticipates evolving needs, with spaces that transition seamlessly between commercial and residential functions. The adjacent townhomes along N. 4th Street and College Alley feature intuitive work-live layouts with dedicated first-floor offices that provide essential separation between professional and personal life.
Environmental integration extends beyond aesthetics to embrace human wellbeing, with every residence enjoying direct views to nature and abundant natural light. The strategic placement of buildings activates previously neglected spaces, transforming what was once merely a place for trash into vibrant streets that invite community interaction and pedestrian activity.
IMPACT
The N. 4th Street development has catalyzed a transformation of an overlooked corridor into a thriving mixed-use destination that celebrates the essence of urban living. By introducing housing diversity to a predominantly single-family neighborhood, the project has created new opportunities for residents to establish roots in this historic district. With exceptional scores for walkability, transit access, and bikeability, the project demonstrates how thoughtful urban design can reduce dependence on automobiles while enhancing quality of life.
