Real Estate Development Done Right: Sycamore and Oak
I recently spent an afternoon hanging out in the heart of Washington D.C. at the Sycamore & Oak development. It stands as a beacon of what urban development done right can achieve. Unlike many projects that prioritize convenience and consumption, Sycamore & Oak has become a cherished part of the community, reflecting a deeply rooted ideology of collaboration, connection, and shared growth for the long haul.
Forts With Friends
Sycamore & Oak reminds me of childhood memories where friends were building forts together. If you remember back to when you were a tiny human, the forts you built with your friends were more than just structures, often made out of couch cushions or some random scrap wood; they were places of imagination, teamwork, and a sense of ownership. They were palaces to us. Similarly, Sycamore & Oak approached the project with the mindset of creating a place that truly is powered by and lifting up the local community.
In contrast to the often transactional and cold nature of modern real estate development, which focuses on providing amenities and cliché art that caters to consumption-minded uses only, Sycamore & Oak was designed to be a place where residents can connect, grow, and transact as part of their everyday lives. This philosophy has led to a development that is not only functional but also deeply loved by those who live and work in the community.
Knowing Your Crew
Sycamore & Oak’s success appears to be rooted in the genuine understanding of what the community needs and wants are. Rather than imposing an external vision, the developers engaged with local residents, business owners, and community leaders from the outset. This collaborative approach ensured that the project was shaped by the voices and desires of those it would serve.
Through workshops, public meetings, and surveys, the community was able to be clear about its vision for Sycamore & Oak. The result is a space that features public gardens, a stage, shared workspaces, local businesses, food hall, and community centers. These elements are not just amenities; they are vital components that support the social and economic fabric of the area.
Authenticity Meets Implementation
Located in a neighborhood that has historically been 90%+ Black, Sycamore & Oak has made a beautiful effort to honor and empower its roots. All the businesses within the development are Black-owned, ensuring that growth and opportunities are anchored in and powered by the community. This commitment to and programming with local community has created a vibrant, authentic, and committed ecosystem.
In a refreshing departure from the artificial and, at times, well-meaning but tone-deaf acts of inclusivity, Sycamore & Oak embodies a genuine partnership with the community. The development is not an imposition from outside interests but a fort—a rallying point and platform for friends to come together to dream and build a brighter future.
A Space to Connect and Grow
One of the standout features of Sycamore & Oak is its emphasis on connection. The development includes multiple communal areas designed to encourage interaction among residents. From shared courtyards and playgrounds to open-air markets and performance spaces, every aspect of the design fosters a sense of belonging and community engagement.
This approach is a rejection of the model for developments that merely provide spaces for consumption. At Sycamore & Oak, the focus appears to be on creating environments where people come together, share experiences, and build relationships. This sense of community is further enhanced by local businesses that reflect the community, offering everything from handmade crafts to homegrown produce.
A Model for Future Developments
Sycamore & Oak exemplifies how real estate can be a key piece in helping people and communities build the future they want together. By prioritizing collaboration, understanding community needs, and fostering spaces for connection and growth, the development has become a crucial part of local life.
This project is as a model for future developments, demonstrating that when real estate is approached with a community before concrete mindset, it can transform from just another transaction into a beloved part of a community. Developers and urban planners around the world can learn from Sycamore & Oak, recognizing that the best developments are those that bring people together and reflect the true spirit of the communities they serve.
In a city where many developments have displaced long-standing communities, Sycamore & Oak is a great example of what can be achieved when the goal is not just to build and profit, but to build and win together. We can all build better and we must.
