Completed in 2016 as phase 1 of a multi year redevelopment of the downtown corridor, the Redlands’ Packing House District establishes the site as a central node within the city’s historic downtown fabric. The design carefully responds to the district’s heritage, drawing inspiration from the existing brick warehouse architecture to create a cohesive and contextually grounded environment. Through a considered balance of preservation and contemporary intervention, the project reinforces the area’s identity while positioning it as a catalyst for ongoing urban revitalization.

The area development plays a pivotal role in shaping the user experience, introducing a lush and inviting palette that softens the industrial character of the site. Mature oak trees anchor the space, providing shade, scale, and a sense of permanence, while strategically placed stone boulders contribute texture and visual weight. These natural elements are layered to create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages gathering and exploration, enhancing both the pedestrian experience and the overall livability of the district.

Detailing throughout the project reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and narrative. Historically inspired tile murals and board-formed concrete walls reference the site’s cultural and material history, while modern interventions, such as metal cable guardrails, introduce a refined, contemporary edge. Together, these elements define a series of intimate patio spaces that are both functional and distinctive, demonstrating a thoughtful integration of past and present through landscape design.

* Work shown here was completed while affiliated with another organization