The location of existing trees on the Gateway Villas site presented an opportunity to save a number of Live Oaks around the perimeter of the property and in between the ponds. These handsome trees encircle the community's edges and provide a green buffer for the four story buildings. The large quantity of replacement trees planted in the interior green spaces provide a pleasing environment for the residents. Low maintenance shrubs and drought tolerant ground cover are planted around the buildings and in the parking areas instead of lawn. Plantings of native flowering grasses and wetland trees ring the pond edges providing seasonal color and texture to the views of the water. Blooming shrubs, stately palms and accent plants have been planted adjacent to building entries and in the clubhouse and pool areas. The mature perimeter trees, extensive use of ground cover and low shrubs in the interior green spaces, pockets of native species in the wet areas and the showy palms and tropical species clustered around the pool deck create a serene exterior environment that is attractive to many residents.
Two large Pool activity areas, oversize Clubhouse with weight room, children’s Tot Lot and large interior lake provide a myriad of recreational opportunities for the apartment residents. The pool deck paving patterns, layout and drainage plans were designed to provide an engaging outdoor experience with a choice of sunny, partial shade and shady locations. Medjool, Queen, and Pygmy Date Palms were planted to create a tropical oasis around the pools. A combination of Washington and Cabbage Palms were planted adjacent to the building corners to provide vertical elements. Many shade trees were planted along the project perimeter to provide a buffer for adjacent properties.
