Crystal Drive Retail Streetscape

Taking a bold new direction in Crystal City, Charles E. Smith Companies was able to return the street to pedestrians, increase retail visibility, and bring life back to Crystal Drive. This was accomplished by adding 175,000 s.f. of exterior retail on Crystal Drive between 20th and 23rd Streets, giving a new public face to the formerly interior-oriented-only mall. Converting Crystal Drive to a two-way street increases retail visibility, while an improved sidewalk gives the street back to pedestrians.

ParkerRodriguez worked closely with the client, architects, engineers and County planning staff to develop a bold and exciting streetscape language. Brick sidewalks take on a contemporary feel; street furniture is fresh, varied and inviting; plantings soften, shade, and bring color. Balancing a buffering from the street and retail visibility was paramount to creating an inviting sidewalk space for strolling, window-shopping, and outdoor café eating.

Client Charles E. Smith Companies Location Crystal City, Arlington, VA Size 2000 l.f. of Streetscape

Services Urban streetscape design Landscape architecture Processing assistance