Paying homage to a site’s history is a regular source of design inspiration for Taylor Johnson client Mary Cook Associates(MCA), the award-winning commercial interior design firm. Knowing this approach, and that Forbes.com real estate reporter Jeff Steele is a history buff, we saw a match made in real estate heaven. The result? A story highlighting not only the firm’s process, but also three recent projects that showcase the commitment to connecting the past with the people who call these new developments home.

When designing Riverworks, a new rental community in Phoenixville, Penn., Mary Cook Associates used the iron mill that once resided on the property as inspiration.