Project Rebirth
Across the U.S.
Client:
Confidential
Size:
1,000,000+ SF
“Project Rebirth” marks a pioneering initiative by RDC, driven by our dedication to reshaping the retail real estate landscape in response to significant societal changes. Originally conceived as an R&D venture, Rebirth aimed to revitalize suburban shopping malls into vibrant, inclusive community hubs fostering economic prosperity, sustainability, and social equity.
In the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and ensuing social transformations of 2020, RDC embarked on a mission to challenge conventional mall redevelopment. Our aim with Rebirth is straightforward: to infuse shopping malls with new vitality, transcending their role as mere retail spaces. We aspire to craft environments that embrace inclusivity, sustainability, and local community empowerment. Our vision celebrates each site’s unique heritage, striving to make them accessible and beneficial to all.
The Process
A Data-Driven Urban Design Approach
The Rebirth journey unfolded through rigorous research, innovative ideation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. We identified numerous suburban malls ripe for renewal, recognizing their potential to rejoin their surrounding communities and drive positive transformation. Our process delved into the historical significance of these locations and their influence on nearby neighborhoods.
Research: Historic Maps, Site Archives & Developmental History
Research: Demographics, Zip Code Census, Creating Personas
Research: Site Environment & Sustainability
The Outcome
A Blueprint for Revitalization
The culmination of Rebirth is a blueprint for revitalizing dormant mall sites nationwide. By leveraging data, research, and community insights, we’ve developed a framework empowering stakeholders to reimagine these spaces as dynamic hubs of economic opportunity, social cohesion, and environmental stewardship.
The legacy of Rebirth transcends individual projects, heralding a paradigm shift in urban development approaches. Through our master planning services, RDC continues to champion principles of equality, inclusivity, and innovation, ensuring that the impact of Rebirth resonates across communities for generations.
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