Jarkins, Principal of Design and Planning, and Sam Sampson, Director of Construction Services, of Ironwood Design Group have an innovative approach. It truly starts with their moniker.   For Erik and Sam, Ironwood Design Group has a deep understanding of how to bring together hardscape and landscape – the hard and soft side of design. It’s is a unique perspective and foundation. Both have a significant place in designing and landscaping,” says Principal of Design & Planning Erik Jarkins. He describes the much-needed flow between design (soft) and physical construction (hard) and the merging of these two languages.   They built this foundation into their four design principles of form, function, experience, and space that they utilize in and on every project.  

The Ironwood team delivered this same energy and expertise to the newly designed Icon Midtown tower. The 39-story high-rise apartment community was commissioned by The Related Development Group who honored Ironwood with the creative fluidity to add to the Atlanta skyline. Erik and Sam were tasked with envisioning and leading the creation of an unparalleled lifestyle-landscaped experience up high, with contemporary overtones and classic undertones for tenants and visiting guests to enjoy.  

The Ironwood team desired to recreate a much sought after WOW factor and deliver lifestyle excellence with cabanas alongside a resort pool terrace and clear edge spa (on the 11th floor) and a rooftop firepit lounge that encompasses and highlights the sweeping 360 Midtown vistas. Tenants will also enjoy the curated comforts of barbeque grills, gaming area, and an al fresco dining area.  

The challenge of this project, mused Erik, was learning how to recreate the architectural design of the interior for the exterior while using weather-appropriate and budget-friendly materials.  

Wanting to set a higher standard that matched the already incorporated amenities of the infrastructure, Ironwood Design Group produced the iconic landscape architecture for Icon Midtown to the city’s growling hi-rise luxury-living landscapes.