According to Multifamily Executive, “The Wrap typically comprises four stories of on-grade, Type-5 wood-frame construction surrounding an above-ground, concrete parking structure. The housing and parking buildings are structurally separate, allowing high cost efficiencies in each.”
Learn how to design a Wrap construction product in Giraffe with this step-by-step guide.
How to Draw Buildings in Giraffe
Wrap style developments are best suited for lower or medium density areas. The Wrap should encourage walkability, and planners and urbanists recommend to incorporate mixed-use ground-floors to generate foot traffic and create a sense of belonging in the community. High density areas benefit more from Podium or Core & Shell construction.
Consider loading in Layers that demonstrate neighborhood walkability, local transportation options, and other neighborhood amenities. Search your municipality’s open data resources to find applicable layers by Add Your own Spatial data.
Giraffe has curated thousands of public data layers, and you can also add your own.
At the core (no pun intended) of a Wrap development is parking, so good traffic flow is imperative to project success. Make sure you consider the directional flows of traffic within the parking structure, and the traffic flows of the surrounding neighborhood, especially if the development will significantly increase density. Consider adding project Layers that demonstrate traffic flow for context. Try to also understand where pedestrian-heavy areas may be, such as bus stops or popular points of interest, and avoid placing your parking access nearby.
<aside> 💡 Data layers for transportation, points of interest, and other demographic information may be available from your municipality. Try searching “City Name” open data to see what you can find! You can try Add Your own Spatial data to add new layers.
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You may also wish to consider pedestrian access, so owners can access their vehicles and parking attendants or other staff can access the structure. Pedestrian access may not be a core feature at the feasibility design stage, but zoning boards and community organisations appreciate the thoughtfulness. Pedestrian access may be part of a community space like a building lobby, parallel to car traffic entrances, or elsewhere.
Depending on your municipality’s zoning requirements or community requests you may also decide to include bicycle parking. Ensure access to the bicycle parking is secure and pedestrian safe.