06.24.2009 – The world is watching as a neglected parking lot in downtown Dallas grows closer and closer to beginning its transformation into one of the world’s most sophisticated models for sustainable urban development. The winning entries of Urban Re:Vision’s international design competition, Re:Vision Dallas, have been chosen, but with hundreds of submitted designs from the world’s top architecture firms and city planners in 26 countries, there were more than three designs worthy of the limelight. Re:Vision judges named three honorable mentions:

CO-OP Canyon houses 1,000 people in terraced cliff dwellings. Residents can gain equity in the CO-OP through their contributions to the sustenance of the community. Food is the thread that knits the community together. Residencies feature front and backyard gardens and the facility boasts a community farm.

Seeds For Integration is a compact urban development, featuring a green roof, green house and vertical farming space. Residential units range from 400-1,000 square feet, making them affordable on a variety of income levels.

Commonwealth is founded on the promotion of natural diversity, social adaptability and shared resources. Commonwealth features affordable housing in addition to a variety of community spaces including a market, cafeteria, wellness center and an outdoor event space.

“I’d like to see Dallas be at the forefront of design, sustainability and vibrancy of cities,” says Dallas Mayor, Tom Leppert. Prior to the competition, Mayor Leppert hosted urban planners and leading design professionals from around the country for an intensive “design charette” put on by Re:Vision to examine the necessary framework and community impact of what will become the first fully sustainable, urban square block in the U.S. Mayor Leppert has offered up his full support to the Re:Vision Dallas project.