Redevelopment Case Study: The Ivy
If Wasko is the prototypical TWG project, The Ivy was the first example of a Wildcat Group transformation from start to finish.
What made The Ivy unique?
Before we acquired it, The Ivy was a severely outdated property in a truly excellent location. In addition to generally outdated finishes and parched, poorly designed grounds, the 1940s-vintage property also had a maze of overhead power cables criss-crossing the grounds. Despite these challenges, the complex was located near Tucson’s El Con shopping center and directly across from Reid Park, with its sports facilities, zoo, event venues, and walking paths. We identified the location as a strong one and developed a plan reposition The Ivy to best take advantage of it.
How did we do it?
Our first order of business was to handle all the overhead powerlines. We dug several trenches throughout the property grounds, and then collaborated with Tucson Electric Power to bury the cables underground. We then strategically re-landscaped the property using artificial turf, which is more sustainable in Tucson’s desert climate than real grass.
Alongside completely renovating each of the existing units, we also converted the basement laundry rooms into additional rental housing units, since each of our apartments is equipped with an in-unit washer and dryer. Finally, we constructed 20 brand-new garage/storage units on-site, allowing residents to shelter their vehicles from the sun.
What did life look like for our Ivy residents?
Residents at The Ivy benefited from the high-quality design and finishes typical of luxury new construction while paying rents that were more in line with older housing stock. With garage parking, storage options, and in-unit washers and dryers, our residents enjoyed apartment life without many of the stresses of rental housing. With downtown Tucson, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, and a wide range of other employers within a 15 minute commute, commuting was easy. And with Reid Park just across the street, weekends and evenings were never boring.