Modellus Novus completed a design proposal for a mixed-use project in Newark, New Jersey that explored the creation of a community-driven, yet compact space, designed to improve the quality of life of both residents and visitors. Set on 1.63 acres less than 10 miles from New York City, smaller buildings, the highest of which is six floors, are set together like a Tetris grid to maximize square footage while not overwhelming the environment. These buildings act as puzzle pieces, allowing for efficiencies in construction timeline and cost while also creating varying community spaces between them.

Uncommon for such projects, most units offer double exposure and shared wraparound balconies. The residential  buildings sit on a podium programmed with retail and parking below. A one-way street is reimagined as a designated driveway into the community, evoking an interconnected, suburban environment.