Better Block – Dallas, Texas
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 multi-day build process this organization helps to bring about a Better Block.
Outdoors an effort is made to bring Better Block elements on to the street and sidewalk. Pavement painting, a mural, and movable furniture are just a few of the features.
And, while being an office and work area inside, every square foot is carefully curated to inspire and bring creativity out on the part of staff members and visitors.
The ShopBot is the workhorse of the organization. This CNC router transforms sheets of plywood into furniture from open source designs available here.
After a stimulating conversation with Executive Director Krista Nightengale, she and staff were kind enough to take a quick photograph with me. It was a full circle moment because the project they were working on was a water feature made of pool noodles. This was very similar to a feature from the Better Block project I led in Oyster Bay, New York, just a few weeks after the first Better Block project was done in Dallas.
After leaving the office we went to see one of the Bench Project locations in person. The bench located by a bus stop was still present and in good condition.