Academy On 4th

Academy on 4th is a transformative $37 million urban redevelopment located in the heart of historic Newport, Kentucky. Situated on the former site of the Newport Intermediate School, the project pays homage to the site's legacy by preserving the original stone wall and incorporating the school’s name into the development’s identity. The project introduces 202 market-rate residential units complemented by ground-floor commercial space, contributing to the revitalization and vibrancy of the urban core.

The site presented significant design and engineering challenges due to the presence of extensive overhead utilities. Bayer Becker collaborated closely with the project team to overcome these constraints, including a strategic architectural modification that notched the northeast corner of the building to accommodate existing infrastructure. The development also includes a secured parking garage exclusively for residents, enhancing convenience and safety.

Bayer Becker’s landscape architecture team designed the project’s central amenity courtyard, creating a dynamic outdoor space that blends comfort, functionality, and aesthetics. The courtyard features pergola structures, an outdoor kitchen and bar, a double-sided fireplace, a pool, and a fire table. A variety of materials and finishes—including pedestal pavers, synthetic turf, decorative gravel, live roof planting trays, and accent lighting—were used to create a visually engaging and highly usable environment for residents.