Copper Carry to create New Urbanist village in Colonie

Taking a vested interest in the growth of their community, local developers New Loudon Rd. Associates, LLC has awarded Cooper Carry the design contract for a proposed mixed-use development. Participating in a design competition against four other firms, Cooper Carry's commitment to smart growth and addressing community needs aligned with the vision of the developers, and the firm was selected to provide master planning and architectural design services for the project. The firm's design proposal for the project responded to the developer's desire to create a town center destination for both residents of the development and the greater community, while honoring the historical background of the area. The developers cited another Cooper Carry project, the award-winning, mixed-use development, Bethesda Row in Bethesda, Md. as a major inspiration for the project. They are intent on incorporating similar, New Urbanist design strategies encouraging smart growth into the project. The vision for the 45-acre mixed-use town center draws on a combination of historical references of regional character and key components of the New Urbanist movement such as regional planning for open space and appropriate architecture and planning. The master plan for the development will integrate a mix of retail space and residential units, a 45-65 key boutique hotel and spa, and office space sited around public space. Honoring previous community opposition to big-box retailers, the retail component will be a mix of boutique national chains and local retailers, entertainment, dining and amenity spaces. Residential design will provide multifamily units sited in a variety of building types. Hoffman's Mini Golf and Driving Range, a family entertainment venue that recently underwent a major renovation by New Loudon Rd. Associates, LLC is currently located on the site.