nature Archives

What Pantone’s Color of the Year Tells us About 2024 Trends

Posted on January 8, 2024 by Hunter

In the ever-changing world of design, Pantone’s Color of the Year is much more than a trendsetter. It’s a window into the collective mood and emerging cultural shifts. This year, Pantone brings us ‘Peach Fuzz’ for 2024, a color that wraps up warmth, community, and nurturing vibes into one delightful package.

Pantone’s selection of Peach Fuzz, a hue that balances the vibrancy of pink with the warmth of orange, isn’t just a pretty shade. Pantone notes the color embodies a sense of nurturing and tenderness, offering tranquility in our fast-paced lives. Peach Fuzz symbolizes a shift towards gentleness, encouraging us to pause and appreciate the simpler aspects of life. It represents a move towards a softer approach in our interactions and environments, resonating with a contemporary yet timeless appeal.

The choice of Peach Fuzz for 2024 is a response to the growing desire for empathy and deeper connections in our society. This color reflects an understanding of the importance of mental and physical well-being, amidst our busy lives. It’s a call to embrace moments of peace, creativity, and human connection. Peach Fuzz is about fostering a sense of community and cherishing the time spent with friends and family. It highlights the trend towards valuing inner fulfillment and the joy of simple pleasures, aligning with a more thoughtful and intentional way of living.

The selection of Peach Fuzz as Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2024 points towards a trend that deeply resonates with us at Optima: the gravitation towards earthy, outdoor, and nature-inspired aesthetics. This choice speaks to a broader cultural shift where design is increasingly embracing the warmth and tranquility of natural elements, reflecting a desire to connect more deeply with our environment.

At Optima, this trend towards nature-centric design is something we have long embraced. Our commitment to creating spaces that are in harmony with the natural world is evident in every aspect of our communities. From the lush greenery that adorns our living spaces to the thoughtful integration of natural light and outdoor elements, we strive to create environments where nature and modern living coexist in balance.

As we move into 2024, the influence of Peach Fuzz in design trends suggests a continuation of this journey toward spaces that celebrate the beauty and simplicity of the natural world. In embracing Peach Fuzz, we’re not just following a trend; we’re reaffirming our commitment to creating spaces that foster well-being, connection, and a deeper appreciation for the simple joys of life.

Exploring the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Posted on December 18, 2023 by Hunter

Nestled in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve stands as a breathtaking testament to the beauty and history of the American Southwest. At Optima®, we’re always on the lookout for extraordinary places that resonate with history and natural splendor, and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a perfect example. Spanning over 30,500 acres, it’s not just an expanse of pristine desert; it’s a journey through time, culture, and nature.

The story of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is as rich as the landscapes it encompasses. The area’s earliest known inhabitants, the Hohokam, thrived here from around 1 AD to 1450 AD. Renowned for their intricate irrigation canals, the Hohokam left behind a legacy etched in the form of petroglyphs and pottery, still revered today. Following them, the Yavapai and Apache tribes called these lands home, leaving their mark on this ancient terrain.

Fast forward to 1865, and you encounter Fort McDowell, a military outpost pivotal in the Apache Wars. It played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States. Then there’s the tale of DC Ranch, a sprawling cattle ranch that reflects the area’s ranching heritage and now stands as a modern residential community, melding past and present.

Hikers on a McDowell Mountain Preserve trail, Photo by Take a Hike Arizona flickr

The Preserve’s diverse terrain, ranging from the lower Sonoran Desert to the rugged McDowell Mountains, offers a visual feast. It’s a natural haven for an array of wildlife and native plants, including majestic saguaros and vibrant wildflowers. The Preserve’s extensive trail network caters to outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you’re a hiker, mountain biker, or horseback rider, there’s a path that’s just right for you.

One of the joys of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is its accessibility. With multiple trailheads, each outing can be a new adventure. The Gateway Loop Trail is a favorite among locals, offering a moderate hike with stunning views. For mountain bikers, the Tom’s Thumb Trail provides a challenging ride through remarkable terrain. And for a family-friendly excursion, the Bajada Nature Trail is a delightful, educational experience with its interactive exhibits on desert ecology.

The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, a non-profit organization, diligently manages the Preserve. They not only maintain the trails and facilities but also offer educational programs and guided tours, enriching visitors’ experiences. Their work ensures that the delicate balance between nature and human enjoyment is maintained, preserving this treasure for future generations.

A prickly pear cactus in bloom at the McDowell Mountain Preserve, Photo by CEBImagery flickr

The creation and maintenance of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve are a testament to Scottsdale’s commitment to conservation and sustainable development. It’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty coalesce, offering a serene yet invigorating escape from the bustle of modern life.

For residents of Optima Kierland Apartments, Optima Sonoran Village and future residents of Optima Mcdowell Mountain Village, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is more than just a scenic backdrop; it’s a living, breathing piece of Arizona’s history and a perfect example of nature’s unparalleled artistry. It’s a place to explore, to learn, and to connect with the timeless beauty of the desert. We invite you to experience this remarkable preserve, where every trail leads to a discovery and every visit leaves you with a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

The Benefits of Living Under Green Roofs

Posted on November 27, 2023November 28, 2023 by Hunter

At Optima, our commitment to crafting vibrant communities extends beyond architecture — it embraces a vision of harmonious living with nature. In properties like Optima Verdana®, Optima Kierland Apartments® and Optima Sonoran Village®, we’ve taken this commitment to new heights — quite literally, with green roofs elements that redefine modern living.

Amidst the greenery, residents find not only a physical haven but a sanctuary for the mind year-round. The lush landscapes stimulate cognitive skills, and echoes the enriching effects of art, where the subjective nature of greenery allows residents to explore their creativity and free thinking.

In the spirit of art therapy, our green roof communities become a refuge for stress reduction. The calming influence from a communal herb garden or native flowers and trees, provides a mental retreat, minimizing worries amid life’s challenges. It’s an oasis that mirrors the positive impact of art in promoting relaxation and inspiration.

Living with greenery encourages residents to delve into their own emotional landscapes. The transformative experience of nature’s presence becomes a sensorial, emotional, and sometimes even spiritual journey. Here, Optima’s commitment to well-being extends beyond physical spaces to nourish the soul.

Green roof elements at Optima Kierland Apartments®

Optima’s green roofs don’t just enhance the lives of residents; they also embody our commitment to environmental stewardship. By providing insulation and mitigating the urban heat effect, these green roofs contribute to energy efficiency, aligning seamlessly with our dedication to sustainable design and living. They also play a crucial role in stormwater management by absorbing and retaining rainwater, reducing runoff and minimizing flood risks.

Green roofs actively improve air quality by capturing pollutants, offering a breath of fresh air in urban environments. Beyond architectural features, they become habitats for wildlife, enhancing local biodiversity and promoting a holistic approach to community development.

In the heart of Optima’s green roof communities, residents experience a dual benefit: enhanced well-being and a commitment to sustainability. The greenery surrounding our residents tells a tale of cognitive enrichment, stress reduction, emotional healing, and environmental stewardship. As we invite nature into our designs, we reaffirm our dedication to access to greenery and sustainable living.

Visit the Shakespeare Garden at Northwestern University

Posted on September 27, 2023February 26, 2024 by Hunter

With Optima’s passion for having nature within reach, it’s no wonder that we are drawn to sumptuous gardens in and around the communities where we build. Imagine our delight in discovering the Shakespeare Garden on the Northwestern University campus, with its rich mix of history and modernity.

Planted in 1917, the Shakespeare Garden has had its home on Northwestern’s Evanston campus for over a century. Emerging from the vision of The Garden Club of Evanston members, it was crafted both as a wartime gesture of solidarity with Britain and to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Shakespeare’s passing.

Measuring 70 by 100 feet, this garden sits just north of the Frank W. Howes Memorial Chapel, bordered by hawthorn hedges that create an intimate haven. As you enter, the garden reveals a curated collection of flora mentioned in Shakespeare’s works. From fragrant lavender and vibrant marigolds and daffodils in Winter’s Tale, to the rosemary and pansies in Hamlet.

Jens Jensen, the illustrious Danish-American landscape architect, brought this garden to life. Known for his influential works on Chicago’s West Side, including Garfield Park and Columbus Park, Jensen took inspiration from Sir Francis Bacon’s essays on gardens. On entering the Shakespeare Garden, you are greeted by two Hawthorn trees, symbolic bridges between the Prairie and the garden. These trees, along with the foundational hawthorns that germinated from French seeds, have stood the test of time, providing a consistent backdrop to this historic site.

Elizabethan-style stone bench. Photo: In Memoriam mmmmarshall

Over the decades, the Shakespeare Garden has seen numerous enhancements. In 1929, an Elizabethan-style stone bench and a captivating fountain became part of this serene landscape. The fountain, a generous donation by architect Hubert Burnham, showcases a bronze relief of Shakespeare’s visage crafted by the French-American sculptor, Leon Hermant. Further augmentations followed, including the addition of a sundial in 1990 and later, a reshaping of the garden’s layout based on the recommendations of the English garden designer, John Brookes.

Hawthorn Trees in Shakespeare Garden. Photo: Wikipedia Commons

Brookes’ suggestions, which included moving the sundial to the garden’s center and adding antique brick edging, have given the garden a touch reminiscent of traditional English gardens. This shift also marked the garden’s evolution from a knot garden to a more fluid, perennial-focused design.

Northwestern’s Shakespeare Garden is not only a place for quiet reflection but also a venue for countless weddings, tours, and cherished moments. It’s entirely free and open to the public, but special tours and events may have to be scheduled.

Highlights Near Optima Verdana®: Green Bay Trail

Posted on September 20, 2023 by Hunter

For Optima Verdana® residents who have a penchant for outdoor activities and scenic views, the Green Bay Trail is a must-visit. This 9-mile asphalt and crushed stone trail runs parallel with Chicago’s Metra commuter rail line and weaves through Kenilworth, Winnetka, and Highland Park. Flanked by eateries, shops, parks, and stunning residences, the trail offers a unique blend of nature and urban vibes for bikers and hikers alike!

What’s especially captivating about the Green Bay Trail is its heritage. It stands on what was once the route of the former Chicago, North Shore & Milwaukee electric railroad. Following its path, visitors are essentially retracing the steps of history from downtown Wilmette to Highland Park. Beyond being a route for history buffs, the Trail also provides families with even the youngest of riders a leisurely day out.

While daily commuters use Green Bay Trail to reach Metra stations, tourists and locals frequent it for recreational purposes to access Starting from Wilmette, you might be immediately captivated by the pristine beachfront atmosphere, juxtaposed beautifully with bustling business districts. And if approaching Highland Park on an early summer evening, you might get a glimpse of the euphoric energy emanating from Ravinia®, one of the region’s most celebrated music venues.

Green Bay Trail. Photo Credit: Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

For those looking to extend the adventure, at the Braeside Metra Station, the trail offers a gateway to the Chicago Botanical Gardens via the North Branch Trail. And for those who conclude their journey at the St. John’s Avenue trailhead, they’ll find a slew of amenities like restrooms, playgrounds, and parks, courtesy of the adjacent rail line.

Living at Optima Verdana® isn’t just about unrivaled luxury; it’s about experiencing the richness of the community and embracing the outdoors. So, dive deep into history, bask in nature, or simply hit the Green Bay Trail for an invigorating walk or relaxing ride. No matter the season, weather or time of day, new experiences await each and every time.

The Natural Splendor of Elmwood Dunes Preserve

Posted on May 24, 2023 by Hunter

At Optima®, we’re always excited to showcase places where our residents can connect with nature, engage in healthy outdoor activities, and experience the unparalleled beauty of local landscapes. Today, we’re turning our spotlight to a gem hidden right in Wilmette – the Elmwood Dunes Preserve.

Elmwood Dunes Preserve is a true oasis nestled amidst urban surroundings. Just a stone’s throw from Optima Verdana®, this preserve promises an unforgettable journey into an ecosystem where the quiet rustle of dune grass and the song of shorebirds are your only distractions.

Preserving an acre of remnant dune and swale habitat, Elmwood Dunes is a vestige of the original Wilmette. This preserve is a testament to the region’s geological past, showcasing an environment shaped by the winds and waves of prehistoric Lake Chicago. Here, you’ll find native grasses, wildflowers, and migrating birds, presenting an idyllic spot for nature enthusiasts.

Elmwood Dunes Preserve doesn’t just offer a tranquil green space for residents to enjoy; it’s an important haven for local biodiversity. After a brief encounter with invasive trees and shrubs in the past, community volunteers worked diligently together to restore the Elmwood habitat back to its former glory, introducing over 50 native plant species, all while protecting endangered species, and providing habitat for migratory bird species. This responsible approach to conservation makes Elmwood Dunes a shining example of how urban spaces can coexist with nature.

Elmwood Dunes. Photo: Village of Wilmette

Its serene walking trails offer an opportunity for peaceful contemplation, a leisurely walk with your dog, or a fun weekend adventure with the family. Whether you’re an avid birder, a nature photographer, or simply someone seeking a breath of fresh air, Elmwood Dunes Preserve is the place to be.

Visiting the preserve also offers an excellent opportunity to learn about local ecology and the importance of conservation efforts. Community stewardship is a key element of this preserve, with various educational programs and events held throughout the year for local schools!

Elmwood Dunes Preserve is more than just a nature preserve — it’s a vital part of our community’s commitment to sustainability and conservation. As an Optima Verdana® resident, you have this incredible natural resource right at your doorstep. Take advantage of it, enjoy it, and most importantly, respect and protect it for future generations. We guarantee you’ll fall in love with the peace and serenity it offers.

Growing Your Own Herbs at Optima Verdana®

Posted on January 17, 2023 by Hunter

The stellar Rooftop Sky Deck and communal courtyard at Optima Verdana® abound with gorgeous greenspace and reflective hardscape surfaces to reduce heat. Our residents can delight in the outdoors year-round for both recreation and relaxation. And for those with green thumbs, dedicated planters atop the Sky Deck will be home to a seasonal herb garden.

Check your kitchen cabinets, your cupboards, your drawers! If you spend any time cooking, you probably have dried thyme, basil, and even a bit of parsley or oregano. These earthly delights known as herbs are easily accessible from most grocery stores, but imagine what it would be like if you grew them yourself?

In spite of their simplicity, herb gardens are magical places and offer many gifts — from cooking, to medicine, to unique fragrances. Growing your own herbs also serves as an exercise in gratification, and so much more:

Great for All Skill Levels

First, herb gardens are great for beginner gardeners because they require minimal effort and are easier to grow than vegetables. They don’t require large plots of land, and grow well in pots, planters and other containers. Herbs don’t need much fertilizing, which is a huge plus for beginners, and they can handle a wide range of temperatures that’s ideal for Chicago’s seasons.

Redefining the Word “Fresh”

When your recipes call for fresh herbs, what could be more delightful — and satisfying — than heading to your herb garden with a pair of kitchen shears and picking or cutting what you need? And because you can harvest your herbs while you’re cooking, they will always be fresh and fragrant.

Variety is the Spice of Life

Knowing that you have easy access to what you’re growing, you may find yourself with an appetite for expanding your repertoire with dishes that specifically call for fresh herbs. This is a real treat, since the flavors are so much more robust and the option to have full leaves, stems and flowers in your preparations is a real bonus.

The herb garden also offers the opportunity to experiment with new flavor combinations. Take advantage of your herbs and try out a new recipe or two. Try growing herbs that are uncharted territory for you, this will likely lead to taking new risks in your cooking. Which in turn will enrich your life with new and flavorful experiences.

As you head into the fall and winter months, you can harvest your herbs and dry them indoors. This will tide you over until spring arrives and it’s time to plant again.

Creating A Healthy, Budding Community

The herb garden at Optima Verdana® is part of the powerful community experience of connecting with others around a shared purpose. All it takes is one seed to sow a relationship and build a budding new friendship with a neighbor. This convenience of access offers residents physical exercise, fresh air and the meditative qualities of connecting to the earth.

If you’re looking for ideas for dishes that will put your fresh herbs in the spotlight at your next dinner or event, The Food Network offers quite a few!

Exploring Optima Communities: Camelback Mountain

Posted on March 24, 2021 by Nancy

One of the reasons we were inspired to move to Arizona was our love for the surrounding desert landscape, and that same passion still resonates across our Arizona communities. An iconic landmark in the greater Phoenix area, Camelback Mountain is a prime example of the way nature informs our own designs through its neighboring Optima communities, Optima Sonoran Village and Optima Camelview Village. But Camelback Mountain has its own distinct allure, fostering a wide-reaching and beloved sense of community for many in the area.

Camelback is located in the Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area between the Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix and the town of Paradise Valley, and is named after its distinct shape, which resembles the hump and head of a kneeling camel. The site has long held significance to Native tribes and settlers in the area, and by the early 1900s, there were strong efforts to keep the mountain protected and preserved. The surrounding area saw major development, but in 1965, Arizona Senator Barry Goldwater helped secure the higher elevations against development. The area became a Phoenix city park in 1968.

View of Camelback Mountain from Optima Camelview Village

Phoenix offers seven breathtaking mountain summits to climb, and Camelback Mountain has the highest, reaching 2,704 feet to provide the best views in the area. Climbing to the summit is considered a right of passage for many. Hikers can choose from two trails to reach the summit: Echo Canyon and Cholla. Both trails are difficult, with Echo Canyon being the steeper of the two and Cholla being the longer option. Luckily, there are a few less strenuous trail hikes as back-up options, as well. Camelback is the perfect place to experience the vast diversity of desert beauty; from colorful granite, to blooming wildflowers, to local wildlife. And since the trailhead is only 20 minutes away from downtown, there are plenty of places to recharge after a long hike.

There’s a reason why Camelback Mountain is considered one of Phoenix’s Points of Pride; the beauty both on — and off — the mountain top are truly spectacular.

Giving Back: Cleaning Up Skokie Lagoons

Posted on February 10, 2020September 1, 2020 by Nancy

As part of our commitment to the built and natural environments, our team regularly organizes outings that give back to the community. Not only do these opportunities allow us to create meaningful impact, but they serve as team-building and bonding exercises, as well. Most recently, we took a trip out to local Skokie Lagoons to help keep the area clean.

Skokie Lagoons are just a short drive from our Glencoe office. An 894-acre destination, the lagoons are the premier spot for both people and wildlife, offering critical natural habitats and the chance for visitors to appreciate the outdoors through canoe and kayak rentals, biking and hiking trails and picnic areas.

To help restore the area with healthy woodland, savanna and prairie habitats, Skokie Lagoons relies upon volunteers to regularly remove invasive plants such as buckthorn, garlic mustard and Canada thistle.

Working with the Cook County Forest Preserve, our team joined the Shedd Aquarium for a Great Lakes Action Day to help restore the local habitat and encourage amphibians and other wildlife to thrive. We cut and burned the thick and concentrated invasive buckhorn brush to make room for native flora and fauna.

To learn more about the Skokie Lagoons and how you can support wildlife restoration, visit their website.

The New Architecture: Integrating the Built and Natural Environment

Posted on December 9, 2019September 1, 2020 by Nancy

In a recent New York Times article, author Karrie Jacobs wrote that the “hard barriers between the designed environment and the natural one are softening — maybe for good.”

Jacobs went on to say, “Designers today are rebalancing the relationship between architecture and nature, with the goal of increasing the quality of life, especially in urban settings.”

The NYTimes article features several new and innovative works by global architects who are designing to fuse outdoor and indoor, with structures that are both influenced by and have influence on their environment. We love to see the innovation taking place throughout the architecture world, and the continued conversation surrounding how design can evolve to appreciate nature.

From the beginning, our work at Optima has celebrated this fundamental connection between design and nature as a way of enhancing the human experience. Since our founding in the late 70s, we have been utilizing Modernist design to create homes that are an extension of their environment and integrate nature into the lives of those that live in them.

One of our first residences, Sandy Knoll, demonstrated how modular housing could integrate a home into a steep, challenging wooded knoll. What resulted was a beautiful home that preserved the integrity and grace of its site, with mature trees and local Illinois vegetation creating the views out of glass-paneled walls.

Since then, we have continuously challenged ourselves to evolve new ways of incorporating nature into our design. Green space has always been a large component to the communities that we build, and our move to Arizona has only deepened our intimate understanding of landscaping.

Relic Rock, Optima DCHGlobal, Scottsdale, Arizona

Our desert dwellings incorporate the elevation, vegetation and climate of the desert into every facet of design, from bridged courtyards to the materials and colors used for each home’s exterior. Glass curtainwalls also provide uninterrupted, panoramic views of the sweeping landscape, so that the mountains of the desert feel a part of each home.

Optima Sonoran Village, Scottsdale, Arizona

In our multifamily work, we incorporate the Optima vertical landscaping system to create protection, privacy and beauty. For us, lush landscaping vertically and horizontally across our communities is an integral part of creating connection – a connection that is both physically inviting and spiritually inviting, as our design seeks to connect people with their surrounding environment.

We look forward to the future, to constantly pushing the boundaries and exploring how to further unify the built and natural environment. We’re excited that the work we do is part of a larger conversation in the architecture world and can’t wait to see what we, and others, do next for architecture and for the earth.

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Tag: nature