Focus Feature: Vicky Lee

At the crux of Focus’ success is our team and their dedication to what we do – creating spaces for people to experience a better life. Our Focus Feature series will showcase our team members and how our vertically integrated teams achieve project success and enhance the communities in which we build.

Today we’re featuring Vicky Lee, our Associate Vice President of Development. Vicky oversees multiple real estate developments and architectural design activities in addition to sourcing deals, identifying equity and lenders, negotiating JV partnerships, managing consultants, and her team as well as local property acquisition to ensure Focus’ pipeline is strong.

Vicky led the development efforts on Focus’ recent success; the Atworth at Mellody Farm. The residential project, which reached stabilization in just 10 months, was part of a larger project; Mellody Farm which included retail and restaurant space. Through a partnership with the Village of Vernon Hills the project team worked towards meeting the goals of the village goals to activate the Northeast corner of Townline Rd. and Milwaukee Ave. while recognizing their need for something other than another grocery anchored shopping center. Vicky championed a design focused on placemaking spaces, an experiential community gathering place where people could live, work and shop in a walkable environment. Through world class architecture, innovative design elements, murals and pocket parks, Mellody Farm provides an enhanced community for its residents while simultaneously acts as an economic driver for the Village of Vernon Hills through its combination of retail, restaurants and residential components.

Vicky’s tenant-oriented design approach and dedication to the goals of our community partners exemplifies Focus’ commitment to positively shape experience and encourage community.