Waterloo Village is a site with a cluster of historic buildings in various stages of revitalization. One is greeted by a gateway and information building at the entrance just off of the parking lot. Among the first buildings is a compact New England church with round arched sash windows and a bell tower with spire. Smith’s Store is a one-and-a-half
During a visit to Dallas we were able to drop in with our friends at Better Block. Between our last visit and this one they upgraded to a larger space. Their methodology has also been refined. Typically a 150 plus day pre-build process helps to define what people want to see happen in places they work. Then during an intensive
Taylor House was built in the 1860s. Originally it stood across the street. It was sold in 1868 to Armstead Joshua Taylor, a cabinetmaker. He married Tabitha Jane Scott, daughter of Collin County pioneer Preston Scott. The Taylors operated the house as an inn for traveling salesmen or “drummers.” Because overnight lodging was available for 25 cents. It was called
Highland Park Village in Dallas is a prime example of the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style. The complex features seven detached one- and two-story buildings arranged around an interior surface parking area and a central plaza. The buildings are designed with arched doors and windows, imported red tile roofs, overhanging balconies, and ornate tile work, all finely crafted to reflect
Approaching the Presidential Center one is struck by the squat design and the geometric massing. Stone-clad piers somewhat resemble columns as they reach out to people approaching. This geometric organization of the exterior is reflected in the main atrium space inside. A multi-story opening has a wood coffered ceiling high above floor level. Along the side walls videos are projected
Knox Street in Dallas, Texas repeats the same design on either side of the light pole. At one level it makes the brand colors, logo, and social channels more prominent. At another level it is a missed opportunity to have a more design driven treatment with different content, colors, or messaging on either side of the poles. The district is
Cleveland Plaza is a level of architectural intervention unusual for an older building. The canopy on steel and reinforced concrete armature gives a neat hat atop this structure. I was fortunate to get a peek into St. Michaels church down the block. The stained glass, while narrow and compact, had themes and coloration that made them stand out. Religious statuary
Toms River proudly displays how they are one of approximately two dozen Main Street New Jersey communities in the state on the entry signage to their downtown. As the county seat for Ocean County there is a preponderance of offices here for the county, the Municipality, various organizations, and many lawyers. A small entertainment and restaurant scene is here also
Earlier we shared our story from arriving in Birmingham through the close of the Opening Plenary on Day 1. This post will cover the time after the Opening Plenary on Monday and before leaving Tuesday afternoon. A full day of programming was available Monday afternoon. I started by heading my way to the Shuttlesworth Screening. Despite being late, I was
Over the past decade I have attended every in person Main Street Now conference. Through that experience I have developed both expectations and an appreciation for the unique strengths and lessons that each host city has to offer. Birmingham was no exception. In a post spanning two parts I will share about my experience with the leadup to the conference