The Chroma Apartments project involved the transformation of a long-vacant brownfield into a vibrant, 70-unit mixed-use development in the high-density Whittier neighborhood of Minneapolis. Our team provided comprehensive site design and civil engineering services, focusing on the environmental restoration and sustainable redevelopment of a challenging urban infill site. The project successfully balances affordable housing goals with high-performance building standards and premium resident amenities.

The primary challenge of the project was the site’s history as a dilapidated brownfield that had remained empty for over a decade. Due to significant soil contamination, the development required an extensive environmental clean-up and restoration process before any structural work could begin. Managing the remediation of contaminated soils within a tight urban footprint necessitated a highly coordinated approach to site grading and foundation design to ensure the long-term safety and stability of the multi-family structure.

To address these environmental constraints, our technical solution prioritized sustainability and long-term performance. We integrated essential infrastructure to support numerous energy-saving features designed to reduce the building’s carbon footprint. Our civil design facilitated efficient utility connections and a robust site foundation that accommodated the specialized requirements of a mixed-use facility while mitigating the risks associated with the previous soil conditions.

The landscape and amenity design play a critical role in establishing Chroma’s community-centric identity. To maximize the utility of the urban site, we incorporated a rooftop deck that provides residents with community gathering space and a designated area for a community garden. This elevated green space serves as a natural contrast to the high-density neighborhood and enhances the overall resident experience.

The final result is a sophisticated residential landmark that turned an environmental liability into a neighborhood asset. By blending complex brownfield remediation with sustainable engineering and thoughtful amenities—such as the fitness center and resident lounge—we delivered a project that serves as a benchmark for high-performance, affordable urban living.