The forefront of mixed-use development
X Phoenix is a new two-phase, 1.1 million sf mixed-use development in Phoenix’s Central Business District that fosters community engagement for both residents and Phoenix locals. The intensive ground floor retail program and building amenities, including a gigantic outdoor pool environment, set a new precedent for the city’s rapid urbanization and downtown residential boom.
As the design architect, Shepley Bulfinch, worked closely with Fitzgerald Associates (the architect of record) to design a building that pays homage to a heritage of mid-century modern high-rises in Phoenix through its expression of structure and panelized exterior skin system. With the largest floor plates that Shepley Bulfinch has ever designed in a residential tower, our residential development architects prioritized integrating natural light and natural air by shaping the corners in a way that allowed light into the space. Balconies provide shade for pedestrian-oriented zones, supporting the neighborhood’s walkability. X Phoenix includes private residences, co-living suites and an array of word-class amenities such as state of the art gym and fitness studios, a resort-style pool, a hot tub that can fit up to 78 people, restaurant and retail spaces on the ground floor and coworking spaces that support the ever-growing trend of work from home model. The most distinguishable part of these luxurious, larger than life amenities? They’re available to the public via club membership, a notable feature of all X properties.
Residential spaces were designed to provide comfortable, convenient home accommodations which are balanced with more intensive social areas that promote a sense of community. A 30 ft deep colonnade at the ground level immediately welcomes users into the space, drawing them off the street and directly into our ground floor’s inviting lobby. The colonnade, designed to accommodate stage performances, raised level seating and local artwork, is a key feature in promoting Phoenix’s culture and local businesses.
The second floor is programmed with leasable co-working spaces. A two-story atrium acts as a visual connection for the co-working areas to the active space below which has been thriving with interactive success since the building opened. We designed these spaces with multi-tiered seating to encourage cross-fertilization people, business, and ideas. In recent visits to the building, we’ve seen groups as big as 25-30 people using the space with entire teams collaborating rather than individuals only using the space for silo work. The focus on community and social engagement continues upwards in the building with two large, open amenity levels that include the pool. Ample space for outdoor gatherings is available adjacent to the swimming pool where multi-tiered areas with artificial turf can be used for relaxing, studying, or socializing. The built-in raised stage is a venue for an exclusive concert or an opportunity for impromptu performance art.
Over the past nine years, the Shepley urban design footprint in downtown Phoenix has continued to grow with projects designed to support more density, sustainability, and vital lifestyles. X Phoenix activates a forgotten piece of downtown and contributes a sculptural, iconic piece of the downtown’s growing skyline. X Phoenix’s many events – including flea markets, pool parties, yoga classes – have seen significant participation and demonstrate the benefits of creating large-scale spaces that open their doors to the public. As downtown Phoenix’s revitalization continues, we are fortunate to have a significant role in shaping a vibrant and inclusive future.
