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Simple Rules.
Desert Living March 2007
by: Lisa Przystup
Simple Rules. A new development designed by one of Las Vegas' most progressive architecture firms, assemblageSTUDIO, will show Las Vegas that homes have no need for layers of faux stone and references to Tuscany. Even in the suburbs.
Good design has occasionally shown up in Strip resorts—55 Degrees Wine + Design, MIX Restaurant and Lounge, SkyLofts—but rarely does it show up in Las Vegas' residential developments. A few of the high-rise condos will wow design aficionados, but anything can look good if you throw enough money at it. Designed to remain as affordable as possible, as understated as possible, and as soulfully gratifying as possible, The Mercer condominiums will make residents feel at home not because of a long list of amenities (although it will have that) but because of the simple and sensible architectural program created by Vegas' assemblageSTUDIO.
The firm was founded in 1997 by Eric Strain, an architect who prides himself on looking to the imagery from within our own region (history, environment, and geology) for inspiration. These elements "not only inform our work but to also create spaces within our community that contributes to the understanding and appreciation of this place," he says. The firm has collected a bevy of accolades and awards including more Design Excellence Awards from AIA Nevada during the past 10 years than any other firm in the state. While assemblageSTUDIO asserts their name suggests an inherent willingness to "get our hands dirty," the immaculate precision of The Mercer's design details makes if difficult to envision dirt being involved in any stage of the process.
The project's marketing hook is "Modern spaces built for real living" and with its southwest Vegas location (Tropicana west of I-215), The Mercer brings style you'd otherwise find near the Strip to a more manageable, off-the-beaten path location. The 113-unit development will include semi-private elevators—one per six residences—as well as a central courtyard with a pool, clubhouse, fitness center, and green space.
Many of the units have built in workstations, freeing up your cash for designer furniture. Although with prices starting at $229,000 for a one-bedroom, 800-square-foot condo, we doubt the interiors will be subjected to self-assembled Swedish pieces. Two- and three-bedroom units will be included in the plan, and they will all have one thing in common: a shunning of the Tuscan themes that prevail throughout the city.