In its winning response to the New Housing New York Legacy Project, the Phipps - Rose - Dattner - Grimhaw (PRDG) team has created a new approach to green and healthy urban living in the South Bronx. A mix of incomes are served by the project through a variety of unit types, including rental, co-op, and live/work town homes. Commercial space will provide needed health services to the community. At the heart of Via Verde is a series of roof gardens providing opportunities for gardening, social gatherings, and contemplation.

The project will provide 139 rental apartments for families earning between 40% and 90% of area median income (AMI) and 63 co-ops for buyers earning up to 130% of AMI. The for-sale component of the project will include live/work duplexes with a street level office or studio space. The project’s form is inspired by the integration of garden and city – the connected rooftops of low-rise town homes, a mid-rise duplex building, and an 18-story tower will be used to harvest rainwater, grow fruits and vegetables, to exercise, and to relax. Biophilic elements which connect people to nature will be integrated throughout the project: private backyard gardens, semi-private courtyards, and public learning and gardening space will provide a range of outdoor experiences. Other amenities such as a Health Education and Wellness Center operated by Montefiore Medical, a fitness center, and bicycle storage space contribute to the project’s theme of healthy living.

Via Verde will exceed LEED Gold and Enterprise Green Communities standards for environmentally responsible and energy efficient design. Passive, low-tech strategies include cross ventilation in all apartments, solar shading, and planted green roofs to provide insulation and control storm water. High-efficiency mechanical systems, energy-conserving appliances, and renewable energy strategies, including solar voltaic canopies, make use of innovative technologies. Smart material choices, including non-toxic paints and rapidly renewable wood products, will improve the air quality for residents and conserve natural resources.