Deep Deuce housing development approved

By Steve Lackmeyer Business Writer


Designs and landscaping plans for a proposed housing development in Deep Deuce were approved Wednesday by the Oklahoma City Urban Renewal Authority as progress continues on what will be downtown’s first large-scale for-sale townhome development in 20 years.

“The Hill,” a $50 million, 170-unit development, is set to be built next year at NE 2 and Stiles. The area is considered one of downtown’s premier spots because it overlooks Bricktown, is in Deep Deuce, and has a view of the downtown skyline.

Rand Sisk, senior designer with Humphreys & Partners Architects, showed Urban Renewal commissioners material samples that will provide the town homes with six different types of brick facades. Each townhome, he said, will be unique in an effort to win over potential buyers accustomed to suburban living.

The designs, he added, are intended to look timeless. Homeowners association rules will prevent exterior changes.

“What we want is for these buildings to look as if they have been here for years,” Sisk said.

The new designs include some changes from the group’s original proposal. A “town hall” at the center of the development has been expanded from one to two floors.
The design borrows from area landmarks, including the former Dunbar library, Avery Chapel and the nearby Luster home at NE 3 and Walnut Avenue.

The town hall will feature a concierge, exercise room, game room, community area, pool and upstairs terraces.

“It will be a nice amenity for the community,” Sisk said.

Interior designs displayed included samples of maple wood doors and granite counters that will be used in each home. Urban Renewal director JoeVan Bullard estimated construction will start within 120 days.

William Canfield, lead developer on the project, said his team still has a lot of work left before building, including utility relocation and site clearance. “We’re moving as fast as we can,” Canfield said. “We’re not in a sales mode yet, but we’re getting a lot of calls and it’s quite encouraging.”