Big Changes Are Coming to Rosslyn

Get ready for a new-look Rosslyn.

Rosslyn is installing the area's first neighborhood-specific streetscape design, and the Rosslyn Business Improvement District just unveiled a demonstration project installed at the corner of Wilson Boulevard and Oak Street last week as the first phase of that effort, the BID said in a statement.

The installation includes custom-designed benches, trash and recycling cans, bike racks, mobile information kiosks, newspaper box corrals and informational signs.

"The purpose behind creating a unique streetscape design is to create a distinct contemporary identity for Rosslyn in addition to encouraging pedestrian activity, connectivity and enjoyment of the neighborhood," Lucia de Cordre, Urban Design Director for the Rosslyn BID, said in the statement. "The elements were also created to extend the benefits of current redevelopment projects and the long-term vision of the Realize Rosslyn sector plan to the street level. This isn’t design just for aesthetics' sake, this is a deliberate, functional approach toward supporting retail, walkability and an active public realm."

The custom elements were developed by New York-based industrial designer Ignacio Ciocchini. His intention was to incorporate a perforated design that called to mind the window lights of the largest buildings in the Rosslyn skyline.

The BID will now collect feedback from the community to determine how the elements should be expanded to the rest of the Rosslyn commercial district. Future initiatives could include streetlights that could act as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, and mobile curbside seating platforms.

You can learn more about the initiative here: http://www.rosslynva.org/_files/StreetscapeBooklet.pdf

Photo courtesy Rosslyn BID.