The Re: Vision Dallas competition brought out some of the most imaginative and innovative designs the sustainability world has ever seen.  Inhabitat recently ran an article about the Los Angeles based firm Standard’s  work titled the Co-Op, which received honorable mention.  Inspired by ancient Anasazi Indian structures, the Co-op features cliff side housing which surrounds a communal canyon.  In the spirit of the Anasazi tribe, who were known for their connection to the earth through agriculture, the Co-Op includes spaces for community gardens and kitchens.  The emphasis on creating a true community among the 1000 residents is where this design shines.  Inhabitat does a phenomenal job of summarizing the entry and is well worth the read.  Though, the Co-op was not among the 3 finalist, the design will serve to inspire other designers in the future.   

Read the Inhabitat article.

*What became of the Anasazi Indians?  Some say a massive drought; some say a war with a rival tribe wiped them out.  I prefer the more logical and entertaining option.  Aliens.