Parc View at Commonwealth

Parc View at Commonwealth is a sixteen-story, privately developed, purpose-built student housing community. Nestled in Richmond’s Monroe Ward, just steps away from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and Monroe Park, the building’s design uses unexpected materials like exposed plywood to craft welcoming spaces for student tenants to live, study, and gather.

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Both an architectural and interior design project, Parc View mends downtown Richmond’s urban fabric by increasing density, activity, and intrigue where there was once only a void of surface parking. Through a contemporary interpretation of a tower tripartition (i.e., podium, body, and top) and the tasteful use of local materials, the building creates a sense of place that artfully weaves together the existing, competing low- and mid-rise structures in the surrounding area.

The ground level of Parc View has multiple uses—leasing, mail room, a coffee bar, and a grand double-height co-working space with a feature pin-up wall providing areas for active collaboration. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow light to flood in while carefully selected material controls the sound levels in the lobby.

Parc View was inspired by Richmond’s art community. On the third level of the residence, the design creates passive and tranquil gathering spaces for student collaboration. An interior courtyard space is complemented by an active maker’s studio for those in art and engineering fields. Design elements, such as unique light fixtures and vibrant colors, continue throughout amenity spaces to create a cohesive environment.

Every other floor of the building houses a study room designed for solo and group studying. A custom wallpaper highlights words of inspiration and reinforces the bold colors used throughout Parc View’s design.

Residents have their choice of one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments spread out over thirteen levels. Bedrooms—each with their own private bathroom—are leased individually to accommodate to the ever-fluid lifestyle of students, giving them confidence in their housing options. , so picking resilient and adaptable pieces was crucial for longevity.

The indoor ‘sky lounge’ and exterior rooftop terrace space on Level 16 feature stunning views of the city, and include an indoor fireplace, coworking rooms, a fitness center, lounge seating with entertainment, a fire pit, and outdoor grill stations.

Floor-to-ceiling windows on the roof-level amenity space, take advantage of the stunning views of historic Richmond. Residents are encouraged to use this space for socializing, relaxing, studying, eating, and whatever else their hearts desire.