Inspired by the natural structure, purity, and life of Florida’s coral reefs, Heron is a unique and distinct addition to the Tampa waterfront, marking the beginning of the city’s Riverwalk.
The residential building comprises a pair of sibling towers connected by a retail podium. Their façades vary subtly, creating visual distinction without stark contrast. A more prominent difference is found in the towers’ respective structures. While the western tower has a direct ground connection, the tower to the east rests on the podium and seems to float above the ground. The angling of the towers gestures towards the water while maximizing the distance between the two masses to optimize both daylight access and unobstructed views.
The towers’ overall north-to-south orientation exposes the broad faces to more direct sunlight. The wrap around balconies serve as both shading devices for the apartments below, as well as light diffusers, with a floor designed to reflect light indirectly into the unit. Angular shifts in the articulation of individual balconies describe the scale of the internal space, allowing the units themselves to become identifying characteristics of the towers. At the podium level, perforated metal screens shield the open air parking and are subtly angled to catch the light and animate the façade.
Condominium residents enter the building via the northeast corner, marked by a sculptural tree column. Retail, anchored by a grocery store, lines Water Street and Channelside Drive, activating the streetscape and drawing visitors from the surrounding neighborhood.
