Catherine R. Hofmann

I can’t remember where I found this image but it is a great solution to boring, one-dimensional strip malls. The courtyard could provide greenery and seating for restaurants and function as an open-air market. In theory the rooftop gardens and solar panels will save money in the long run but may be overlooked by the developers.

Strip mall development in 2012 was 5 million square feet, down from 200 million square feet in 2006. However, continuation of development is absurd considering over 11% of strip malls in North America have been abandoned. The concessions we and our cities have made for cars is unbelievable and should not be tolerated. Repurposing existing strip malls to accomodate the wants and needs of local citizens–hopefully with locally-owned businesses–should be at the forefront of our agendas.

source:
WSJ
Atlantic Cities