This design competition entry was in collaboration with Lo-Fi Architecture, Core Ventures, and Centerpoint Builders.  Designed as a self sustaining city block, the building systems work together to achieve maximum effectiveness, cost control, and sustainability.

This solution explored the idea of using discarded shipping containers as a viable construction material.  With a surplus of containers readily available, the concept included not only the “up-cycling” of a waste product but the ability for a modular, organic growth as demand is met without disruption to the current tenants, which include retail, residential, and community uses.

Additionally, a parking garage was proposed that met the realities of the culture of Dallas, Texas today while being flexible enough to lower parking capacity as the demand allowed and increase space for on-site farming.

A two phase construction approach was proposed in order to meet standard equity return requirements at the time.  The concept allowed for equity to recover a considerable amount before reinvestment into other sustainable technologies, responding to the realities of both financial and construction challenges.

This medical office building is part of a hospital campus in Rockwall, Texas.  It was designed to not only add to the upscale suburb’s rich character, but to compliment the design of the hospital and set a standard for the remainder of the campus.

As the design-builder, Centerpoint was able to control costs while producing a green product well within the budget, which was originally set using standard construction methods.  By using structural insulated panels (SIPs), high performance glazing, and reflective roofing, the building shell has a high insulating value while maintaining an extremely tight envelope.  The result is a high performance building which is less expensive to operate, less prone to leaks, and faster to build – without adding to the construction budget.