The Market Place at Oakley Centre provides new retail and office space as an extension of the historic Oakley central business district. Our client had a vision to develop a vacant site adjoining several buildings he already owned. The end product included the expansion of one of the existing structures and two new buildings that create a series of small, distinct buildings, in the scale of the existing streetscape. The rhythm of the building spacing allows a tree-lined entry to the parking lot in the rear, and a courtyard for outdoor dining and merchandising. Providing a variety of small mixed retail and business suites, the development achieved a 90% lease rate prior to project completion. Zoning issues abounded. The site is in an urban design district, which requires compliance with stringent design standards, approval by Cincinnati’s City Architect, and public review hearings. We proactively presented our design concept to Oakley’s Community Council to solicit their input, and they not only approved the project but became our advocates during the Zoning review process. The building systems were designed to allow wood floor and roof trusses to remain exposed, providing more design flexibility and the opportunity to capture an edgy loft aesthetic in the lease spaces.