The Dix Park Edge
Clear Site Analytics
96,000 SF
Mixed-Use Residential
Executive Summary & Site Context
Objective:
To determine the highest and best use for the corner assemblage at Lake Wheeler Road & Hammell Drive, leveraging its direct proximity to Dorothea Dix Park.
Site Strategy:
The proposed design bridges the gap between urban density and parkland preservation. By utilizing an "E-Shaped" footprint, the massing creates a protected internal courtyard that mimics the park's greenery while pushing the active building edge to the street corner. This maximizes lot coverage while respecting the pedestrian scale along the Lake Wheeler corridor.
Location Statistics:
Site Context Analysis
Zoning Analysis
Comprehensive zoning compliance assessment for the proposed development
| Regulation | Code Requirement | Proposed Design | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permitted Uses | Mixed-Use, Multi-Family, Retail | Residential over Retail/Amenity | Compliant |
| Building Height | Max 5 Stories | 3 Stories (Flat Roof w/ Terrace) | Compliant |
| Front Setback | 0 FT - 10 FT (Build-to line) | 5 FT (Active Streetscape) | Compliant |
| Side Setback | Min 10 FT | 15 FT (Buffered drive aisle) | Compliant |
| Lot Coverage | Max 80% | ~70% (Green Roof Area) | Compliant |
| Parking Ratio | 1 Space / Unit | 0.8 Spaces / Unit (Transit Oriented) | Variance Required |
| Green Space | Min 10% | 35% (Courtyard + Green Roofs) | Compliant |
Data Sources: https://library.municode.com/nc/raleigh/codes/code_of_ordinances
Key Compliance Metrics
Site Concept
Innovative E-Shaped design bridging urban density with parkland preservation
E-Shaped Massing Strategy
Site Concept Overview
Site Plan Detail
Detailed Site Concept
Key Design Features
Green Infrastructure
Extensive bio-retention green roof system and central oval lawn connecting to Dix Park canopy
Mobility Focus
Protected green bike lanes along Lake Wheeler Rd connecting to Raleigh greenway system
Internal Sanctuary
E-Shape massing blocks street noise, creating quiet amenity-rich courtyard
Parking Efficiency
Surface lot tucked to secondary frontage, screening vehicles from primary intersection
Zoning Highlights
Massing & Visualization
Rich red brick façade with dark bronze metal panels nodding to Raleigh's industrial heritage
Massing Diagram - Main
Massing Detail
Design Narrative:
The massing utilizes a rich red brick façade paired with dark bronze metal panels, nodding to Raleigh's historic industrial warehouse vernacular while providing modern durability. The corner condition is anchored by large industrial-style windows, maximizing transparency and engagement with the street.
Development Yield
Lifestyle-focused unit mix targeting young professionals and empty nesters
Proposed Unit Breakdown
Development Stats
Development Yield
Amenities Program
Parking Viability
Strategy: Shared parking model with transit incentives. The site design prioritizes green space over asphalt, relying on the high Bike Score (92) to reduce car dependency.
Investment Summary
The Opportunity
This study confirms that the Lake Wheeler & Hammell intersection is primed for a gateway development. By capturing the "park-side" premium, the project offers a unique value proposition that standard garden apartments cannot match.
The Path Forward
The visual density aligns with the neighborhood character while maximizing the site's yield. The yield is calculated, the next step is execution.
Clear Site Analytics, LLC
Alexander Panzera
apanzera@clearsiteanalytics.com
585.755.5772
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Disclaimer: All site plans, renderings, and layouts provided are for conceptual and visualization purposes only. They are not intended to be used as legal surveys, engineering drawings, or construction documents. Verify all zoning and site data with licensed professionals.