This document discusses strategies for repurposing distressed commercial properties like big box stores. It notes that big box conversion is already occurring as shopping has evolved beyond convenience to prioritize unique experiences. Repurposing large big box sites allows for creating destinations that offer lifestyle and environment in ways smaller sites cannot. The document argues that urban land should have higher and better uses than single-purpose suburban models and that design and public benefits can change developer-community dynamics and create new urban landmarks. It suggests exploring public-private partnerships and creative land uses to help secure financing and tenancy while increasing foot traffic.

1. Beyond the Big Box:
Re-purposing Distressed
Commercial Assets
Thursday,
October 14
3:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

2. BEYOND THE BIG BOX
Design Strategies for Repurposing
Distressed Commercial Properties
ROGER SHERMAN ARCHITECTURE AND URBAN DESIGN
ULI National Conference / 14 October 2010

4. THEY’RE HEEEERE…….
BIG BOX (COMMERCIAL PROPERTY) CONVERSION
IS ALREADY TAKING PLACE; the only question is
when developers, designers and policymakers will
catch up

8. NOT YOUR MOTHER’S MIXED USE
_INFILL IS NOT ENOUGH: Shopping has
moved beyond mere convenience and price,
becoming destinations offering unique
experiences of LIFESTYLE AND
ENVIRONMENT
_TRUE VALUE: Big Box sites are large
enough to create this in ways smaller sites
cannot

19. GAME CHANGER…….
_Urban land demands higher and better use than
the single-purpose, stand-alone suburban
paradigm
_Mitigation measures and local hiring are “last
gasp” fixes to a failing business plan

21. _Use a) DESIGN and b) PUBLIC BENEFITS to
change the developer--community dynamic and
expand the catchment area. Our new urban
landmarks and social centers
_Explore PUBLIC –PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS and
CREATIVE LANDUSE MIXES to assist in securing
tenancy (financing), complementary parking
demand, and increased foot traffic
LEVERAGE, LEVERAGE, LEVERAGE

23. PLAYA ROSA WATTS (SOUTH LOS ANGELES), CA