In Soundview, one of the Bronx’s most residential neighborhoods, a large Mitchell-Lama campus lost its connection to the surrounding street network through years of ad hoc decisions related to the surrounding area. Its oversized parking lots and inward-facing design left little room for growth and even less for neighborhood cohesion and connection. By leading with a rezoning of the large-scale affordable residential development, our design shows that housing density can be supported while restoring a walkable street grid and activating public space.

WXY led a combined urban design and architecture strategy that reshaped the site as Stevenson Square. The plan repositions Stevenson Commons by introducing seven new buildings along new streets that connect to Lafayette Avenue, thereby improving access to Soundview Park. A mix of ground-floor townhomes and mid-rise apartments adds residential density while maintaining a pedestrian scale. The design activates underused land with new blocks, neighborhood retail, and public open space that support both new and existing residents.

WXY worked closely with Camber and the Department of City Planning to establish a unified land use and open space framework. The team prioritized alternatives to car travel, integrating carshare, bike storage, and improved bus connections into the overall plan. Parking was consolidated in a new facility. A new community park and tennis courts were designed as part of a broader open space network, and the buildings incorporate accessible townhomes with through-ventilated plans that foster a strong residential character along the street.

The first phase of development includes three new residential buildings. The first is a six-story senior building with 116 affordable apartments. The next two are co-ops, and provide a path for homeownership for the 58 units. These new residences create a strong street presence, support local retail, and provide better access to recreation. Together, they lay the groundwork through the use of mid-rise typology for a more connected and resilient Soundview.