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# Outdoor-Focused Residential Developments
Concrete Amsterdam Finishes the Fishtown Urby Project

By Kalin Ned | Published 2025-12-08 | Eco
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fishtown-urby
References: [v2com-newswire](https://www.v2com-newswire.com/en/newsroom/categories/residential-architecture/press-kits/1472-16/fishtown-urby)

The architectural firm [Concrete Amsterdam](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/immersive-nightlife) has completed work on a new residential development in Philadelphia named Fishtown Urby. This represents the latest project in a longstanding partnership with the housing operator Urby.

The Fishtown Urby building's design incorporates a [brick exterior](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smarts-place) intended to reflect the historical industrial character of the surrounding neighborhood, while specific architectural interventions — such as deliberate openings in the façade and strategically proportioned windows — are implemented to modulate natural light, ensure privacy, and reduce noise. The property includes multiple communal outdoor spaces designed by landscape architect Bas Smets, ground-level retail units, and several interior amenity areas such as a gym, library, and speakeasy bar. A distinctive feature is a large-scale mural on one elevation, created in collaboration with Street Art Today and renowned Dutch tattoo artist Henk Schiffmacher, which references local street art culture.

Image Credit: Robert Tsai

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 6.4/10
- Popularity: 65% | Activity: 70% | Freshness: 58%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) > [Eco Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/ecoarchitecture)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Historical Aesthetic Integration:** Residential developments are increasingly integrating historical aesthetics into their design, offering opportunities for modern architecture firms to blend traditional elements with contemporary functionality.
- **Communal Outdoor Spaces:** The rise of communal outdoor spaces within residential projects reflects a growing consumer demand for community-focused living environments that enhance social interaction and improve well-being.
- **Art-centered Collaborations:** Collaborations with artists to incorporate large-scale artworks into building design present unique opportunities for developers to create visually distinctive and culturally resonant properties.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Residential Real Estate:** The residential real estate industry is increasingly incorporating design elements that prioritize community engagement and aesthetic integration, emphasizing value beyond traditional living spaces.
- **Landscape Architecture:** Landscape architecture is gaining prominence in urban developments, as the demand for innovative outdoor spatial designs continues to rise alongside the focus on sustainable and attractive communal spaces.
- **Urban Art Collaborations:** The intersection of urban development and creative arts has paved a new avenue for industries to explore art-centered partnerships, enhancing the cultural value and allure of residential projects.

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