This article is also available in Spanish

Laredo, Texas, and Nuevo Laredo in Tamaulipas, Mexico—known colloquially as Los Dos Laredos—were a single city divided by the Rio Grande River until 1848, when a treaty established the international border in the river, leaving one half in the United States and the other in Mexico.

But the cities remain entwined. The port there is a major trade route and crossing point between the countries. Families have members on both sides, with some who live in Nuevo Laredo working or attending school in Laredo. And, of course, ecological systems know no international boundaries. Biodiverse creeks feed into the Rio Grande, and the region is an important migratory route for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

Plans are now underway for a binational park that would reunite the cities along a 6.3-mile stretch of the river. As envisioned, the park would span 1,000 acres across both sides of the waterway. A multidisciplinary team led by the San Antonio-based Overland Partners and the Laredo firm Able City, and including OLIN, Arup, LAN Hydrology, and Crane Engineering, is working with U.S. and Mexican officials to design the park to celebrate the shared culture of the two cities, encourage tourism, and improve the health of the river, which is heavily polluted and prone to flooding. “Two countries, two cities, one culture, one river, one park,” says Rick Archer, a founding principal of Overland.

This is not the only park project on the U.S.–Mexico border. There is a move to expand Friendship Park between San Diego and Tijuana so that people can do more than touch fingers through a fence. Gabriel Díaz Montemayor, ASLA, an expert on the border region and an associate professor of landscape architecture at the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, has taught design studios with the goal of providing green public space along the river while improving water quality and addressing flooding (see “Floods That Know No Bounds,” LAM, November 2019). And, of course, the idea of a binational park dates back at least to the 1930s when one was proposed for the Big Bend region, giving rise to Big Bend National Park in Texas and adjacent protected land in Mexico.

The park for Los Dos Laredos is still in the conceptual stage, but the plan would include a natural area for the northern section of the site. In the middle section, amphitheater-style seating would flank the river so spectators on both sides could, say, watch a concert performed on a barge. The southern portion of the park will have soccer fields, playgrounds, and other recreational offerings. There is even talk of adding a pedestrian deck to a traffic bridge that spans the river, with the idea that it could connect parkland on both sides and one day be the setting for family reunions, weddings, and quinceañeras.

Getting to that point remains challenging, however, given the current condition of the river and the complexities of a binational effort. Sewage flows into the Rio Grande from the Mexican side, although Nuevo Laredo recently committed funding to address the problem. The U.S. bank was stripped of native species to facilitate surveillance by border control, and this has contributed to runoff and the buildup of sediment in the waterway. Invasive species such as carrizo cane have taken over, hindering visibility.

Although restoring the river is meant to be central to the project, design solutions will have to allow access for border-patrol purposes. Susan Weiler, FASLA, a partner at OLIN, says she believes security, beauty, ecological restoration, and public use can all be achieved. “Security is important, and we need to be able to help provide that, as well as a clear and healthy pathway for the river,” she says.

Design details—plus costs, funding, and a timeline—have yet to be worked out, but participants are hopeful that an agreement can be reached on all, particularly given the bipartisan support for the project. In early May, the cities sent a delegation to Washington, D.C., to present the park proposal and got an enthusiastic response from federal officials and congressional leaders. “The process of doing this park,” Archer says, “the friendships built, the diplomacy, may be as big a legacy as the park itself.”

Read the original article in Landscape Architecture Magazine.

Listen to Texas Public Radio Fronteras: Two Nations, One River here.

A new generation Napa resort driven by active and bold experiences, connection with nature, an inspiring culinary scene, and total wellbeing

Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection opens today on 712 acres of vineyards and ranch land – a destination unto itself of unprecedented energy and rare beauty that welcomes a bold new dawn for this iconic California wine region. Linked to hundreds of miles of biking trails, with incredible natural scenery, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection enables active engagement with the land, invigorating culinary moments, and the discovery of local artisans and exclusive wines, while unearthing the full potential of every guest through immersive wellbeing. Offering an exhilarating new Napa lifestyle, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection will inspire exploration and adventure of this landmark property and the best of both the Napa and Sonoma Valleys.

A heritage-rich location beckoning adventure

A short 50-minute drive from the Bay Area, the hills of Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection are framed by 2.5 miles of Napa River frontage adjacent to the San Pablo Bay Estuary. Founded in 1856 by Judge Edward Stanly and an integral part of Napa’s wine-making lore, the property today is explored via trails through forest-fringed pastures and rolling vineyards that continue into the surrounding countryside.

“Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection is an active resort that holds immense appeal for visitors and the local community alike. It sits at the gateway of both Napa and Sonoma Valleys and enjoys proximity to the coast and the city. We couldn’t be more excited to open this exciting new resort that has been brought to life with years of thoughtful planning. With the opening of Stanly Ranch, we will be leading the way for the new Napa,” says Ed Gannon, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection, General Manager.

At the end of a long driveway shaded by towering eucalyptus trees, guests are welcomed into convivial gathering spaces and innovative dining and entertainment venues, while the Halehouse wellbeing center and 135 airy cottages and guest rooms are set across the ranch to maximize stunning views and ensure consummate privacy. Those who would like to make Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection a permanent home can purchase one of 70 three- to six-bedroom Vineyard Homes and 40 two-bedroom Villas.

An energizing retreat from which to explore

Surrounded by ranch land, each hotel cottage brings outside in and agrarian life home with vineyard surroundings. The one- and two-bedroom Arbor Cottages, Acre Rooms, and Rambler Rooms all feature separate living areas and private terraces for alfresco dining, while the magnificent three-bedroom Palomino Suite sleeps eight in one of the property’s most scenic settings.

Paying homage to the property’s rich legacy with sustainability top of mind, each of these contemporary, nature-held cottages has been designed by leading architectural firm Overland Partners with a spare elegance and honest luxury true to an active ranch. Reimagining the modern farmhouse, each structure is casually inviting, seamlessly integrating indoors and out with a timeless feel belying its new-build status. Interiors pair warm neutrals with oak, black metal, and leather. Moments of wellbeing are found throughout the cottages with outdoor showers, yoga mats, meditation cushions, and Theragun massage devices, making each a private extension of Halehouse, the resort’s comprehensive wellness hub.

A rare ownership opportunity amidst Napa Valley vineyards

Decades in the making, the residences at Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection are truly a once-in-a-generation ownership opportunity in Napa Valley offering the prestige of an Auberge lifestyle in a private ranch setting. A limited enclave of modern ranch residences is available for purchase. The first Villa residences will be ready for occupancy in late 2022, with the Vineyard Homes to follow in early 2023.

The Vineyard Homes bring to life the vision of renowned California residential design expert Bob White of Forest Studio. Ranging from 5,800 to 8,950 square feet of interior and exterior living space, the Vineyard Homes offer three-to-six-bedrooms designed for privacy and multi-generational enjoyment. The Vineyard Home experience includes indoor/outdoor living, pool, large landscaped courtyards, and open-air dining and entertaining spaces.

Imbued with the energy, convenience, and community of the resort, the fully furnished two-bedroom and two-and-a-half-bath Villas feature outdoor showers with courtyards, dramatic ceiling heights washed in natural light and plentiful outdoor dining and entertainment areas. Offering a fresh Napa design, and creating fluid connectivity between interiors and the exterior, the Villas’ interiors pay homage to Stanly Ranch’s history and Napa’s provenance as a tannery center. Inspired by contemporary barn structures, and creating fluid connectivity between interiors and the exterior, the Villas capture the essence of Napa’s rich history.

A center for restoration and recovery

Flanked by a spectacular spa pool with the most mesmerizing views on the property, Halehouse is dedicated to the achievement of personal wellness goals by helping guests to unleash their full, untapped potential. Within its serene hilltop embrace, leading wellness specialists, medical professionals, and sports experts from around the world tailor individualized programs that incorporate nourishment, hydration, sleep, movement, and targeted treatments to restore the body’s physiological markers and balance mind and spirit.

Integrating the best of sports science and energy healing, treatments range from physical therapy and restorative Rolfing to lymphatic drainage massage, chiropractic services, and skincare. State of the art technology complements daily fitness programming and immersive retreat experiences.

The Springhouse Circuit is a critical component of Halehouse recovery programs. Integrating contrast techniques and bio-hacking technologies to activate the body’s natural healing processes, it includes a Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber, a Tepidarium, Salt Room, Cold Plunge Bath, and the Cedar Sauna with stunning views overlooking Stanly Ranch.

Fieldhouse is the center’s movement studio and fitness club offering fitness assessments, functional training and performance coaching, and wellbeing practices from meditation and breathwork, to garden bathing. Guests can choose from a host of fitness modalities including signature HIIT classes, yoga, pilates, and qigong, as well as bespoke trail rides, runs, and hikes.

Experiential dining to excite and nourish

With three distinctly different dining outlets and a range of private event spaces, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection is set to become one of the most exciting dining destinations in Napa. The resort’s culinary program celebrates the bounty of the land, leveraging Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection’s unique position as a working ranch and winery to offer sustainably sourced, seasonal menus that surprise, stimulate, and satisfy the most discerning of palates.

Executive Chef Garrison Price brings a deep interest in sustainable agriculture as well as professional expertise gained from working with some of the industry’s most notable chefs at fine dining destinations throughout the United States. His career highlights include three years as executive chef of New York’s beloved il Buco Alimentari & Vineria. Prior to that, he headed up the kitchen of the botanically-focused il Fiorista. Price found inspiration and mentorship working under Jean-Georges Vongerichten at Hawaii’s Kauai Grill, and later worked as head chef at José Andres’ China Poblano. His experience as a chef has forged a deep dedication to maintaining the health of local ecosystems through regenerative farming practices.

Bear is the culinary keystone of Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection’s culinary offering, showcasing inspired, elemental cuisine. Multi-course dinners paired with wines from the extensive, mature cellar offer a new approach to dining, exploring single, focused ingredients as the foundation of an ever-changing menu. Playing with form, texture, and innovative fermentation and preservation processes, local elements are sublimely reimagined in unexpected ways. Low-key breakfasts and brunches on the terrace segue into leisurely lunches.
Serving as a convivial community hub, Gavel, with its bustling coffee bar and store, tempts guests, passing cyclists, and local patrons throughout the day with freshly baked pastries, ranch-cultivated jars of goodness and luxe pantry staples. Gavel is stocked with quality products ranging from locally made artisanal handicrafts to adventure and lifestyle accessories including a selection of tabletop, home, and kitchen goods curated by Emily Holt.

Basin Bar is set beside the resort’s expansive, Provence-style swimming pool with an alfresco dining area in a lavender-scented grove. The casual, farm-driven menu features light yet satisfying bites, multiple spritz and Ranch Water cocktail options, and moreish snacks. The Spa Pool is another waterside venue, offering an awe-inspiring backdrop of rolling vineyards and Mayacamas Mountains.

Private event spaces include the remarkable Glasshouse Barn, which can accommodate up to 300 guests, the more intimate Garden House, and the dreamy Lavender Lawn. Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection’s magical ranch setting is ideal for celebratory events, weddings, and other gatherings, offering extreme flexibility, personalization, and exclusive accommodation options.

Interactive experiences with unlimited possibility

The experiences program at Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection has been designed to excite and educate – thrilling the senses, feeding curiosity, and deepening the connection between land and community. Part of the region’s extensive network of hiking and biking trails, Stanly’s myriad outdoor experiences also include professionally led runs and rides by celebrated athletes and conservationist-led hikes.

Aside from private dining in a host of settings, culinary experiences include herb-forward cocktail creation with Bear’s talented mixologists and morning tea ceremonies beneath Gordon Huether’s awe-inspiring Infinity sculpture. Local wine makers open their cellars for exclusive tours: Guests can offroad in a Land Rover Defender to an exclusive library wine tasting experience at Quintessa or cruise along the cliffs of the Sonoma Coast. Stanly Ranch hosts live musical performances by award-winning talent, and guided walks reveal the region’s artistic treasures.

About Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection

Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection is the resort of new Napa, bringing a bold, dynamic energy and creating an unrivaled destination and community itself. Set on over 700 acres of rolling vineyards and farmland in the southern section of Napa Valley’s wine-growing region with access to both Napa and Sonoma, the resort will include 135 airy, cottage guestrooms, featuring outdoor terraces with fire pits and views of the Mayacamas Mountains. Stanly Ranch offers a rare ownership opportunity consisting of a limited collection of 3–6-bedroom Vineyard Homes and furnished 2-bedroom Villas. The resort will feature Halehouse, an Auberge spa offering targeted and intentional treatments that help you reach your full potential, three unique dining venues including Bear, which pays homage to local farmers and makers, and a behind-the-scenes look at wine country with a unique range of thrilling adventures and immersive experiences. Embracing its 100-year Napa Valley history, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection has undergone an evolution from a working ranch to a deeply-rooted luxury destination, capturing the casual, honest luxury of culture and cultivation.

About Auberge Resorts Collection

Auberge Resorts Collection is a portfolio of extraordinary hotels, resorts, residences and private clubs. While each property is unique, all share a crafted approach to luxury and bring the soul of the locale to life through captivating design, exceptional cuisine, innovative spas, and gracious yet unobtrusive service. With 22 one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts, Auberge invites guests to create unforgettable stories in some of the world’s most desirable destinations.

For more information: aubergeresorts.com

Connect with Auberge Resorts Collection on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @AubergeResorts and #AlwaysAuberge

Read the original article here.

The gardens has begun construction on its Living Energy Access Facility, which will house a new restaurant, expanded gift and plant shop, on-site parking and solar array.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens has received the permit to begin vertical construction on Phase One of the Master Plan for its downtown Sarasota campus—specifically on the Living Energy Access Facility, or LEAF, a multipurpose structure that will house a new garden-to-plate restaurant, expanded gift and plant shop, and on-site parking, all topped by a nearly 50,000-square-foot solar array. The $51.6-million first phase of the estimated $92-million project also will feature a new welcome center, a cutting-edge plant research center with a state-of-the-art herbarium and research library, and more.

Phase One also includes a new multi-use recreational trail (MURT) that will enable multimodal transportation to the campus and the bayfront. The MURT will connect to a bayfront pocket park that is owned by the City of Sarasota but will be improved and maintained by Selby Gardens. Other initiatives in Phase One include the creation of new garden features and more green space, restoration of historic Palm Avenue as a pedestrian-only promenade, and offsite roadway improvements.

Read the original article on Sarasota Magazine.

The oldest theater and entertainment venue in San Antonio is about to have an upgrade. The group that owns the downtown’s Aztec Theatre has a new vision for the upper office floors of the 96-year-old building.

Local developers and architects submitted plans to the Historic and Design Review Commission to convert the upper four floors of office space above the Aztec Theatre into a boutique hotel. The plans would also add a rooftop lounge and lobby.

 

The plans were submitted by Aztec Family Group LLC., the owner of the Aztec Theatre, led by local restaurateur Samuel Panchevre, along with Overland Partners and Seventh Generation Design, Inc., according to HDRC documents.

Michael Monceaux, principal on the project, and designer Oscar Yanez are working with Design Principal Tim Blonkvist. Monceaux says Panchevre approached them last year with business partner Sheem Capital, which will oversee most of the hotel portion of the project.

Monceaux says the project’s rooftop access is what will make the project viable and work well with the Aztec Theatre. The rooftop will serve as the lobby and bar area for the approximately 77-room hotel.

Monceaux say he has seen hotels that have check-in lobbies above the ground floor in bigger cities where most of the ground floor space is dedicated to retail space. The hotel will have separate entrances on St. Mary’s and Commerce streets, as well as the River Walk entrance, Yanez says.

The rooftop lounge will be made with lighter materials so not to change the foundation of the entire historic building. It will also look uniquely different from the building itself.

“The idea, from a historic standpoint, is to set this new edition from the face of the old building and not try to replicate or make anything that looks like it’s trying to copy something that’s historic,” Monceaux says.

Both stress that the hotel will not interfere with Aztec Theatre operations, especially since the four floors of the office building are essentially built around the theater.

This begs the question of any noise impacts to hotel guests. Monceaux assures that noise transmission will be “at a level that you would expect from any good hotel.” He says the group will use sound isolation measures like different batt insulation and noise canceling membranes in the walls.

Monceaux says the group hasn’t decided on a name for the hotel yet. The estimated cost is also not being disclosed at this time. They have an estimated construction start date of early fall if all approvals and permits go according to plan.

The Aztec Theatre item is expected go to the HDRC on Wednesday, March 16. MySA reached out to Panchevre for comment.

New 15,000-square-foot facility is the largest medical equipment reuse facility in Texas 

Project MEND opens new headquarters with a commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by clients, past and current board members, and community supporters, including Judge Nelson Wolff, Councilwoman Ana Sandoval, and local philanthropist Harvey Najim. The grand opening event included guided tours of the new headquarters and entertainment from Fort Sam’s Own 323RD Army Band. The 15,000 square-foot facility is located near the Medical Center and represents nearly $4 million investment in the community and those served by Project MEND. The new headquarters, designed by architectural firm Overland Partners Architects, is the second-largest medical equipment reuse facility in the United States and the largest in Texas. 

Project MEND provides individuals living with life-changing disabilities and illnesses with access to medical equipment and assistive technology that they may not otherwise be able to afford or face gaps in their insurance coverage. Project MEND provides its services by receiving donated medical equipment from the community. This equipment is refurbished, sanitized and processed into inventory. The equipment is then redistributed to those who turn to Project MEND for assistance. In 2021, the organization assisted 1,700 clients and distributed 4,000 pieces of equipment. 

Overland Partners Architects designed Project MEND’s new headquarters and warehouse as a unified service center to seamlessly provide administrative services and mobility devices, and other assistive technology in one location. The design focuses on accessibility and creating an experience that puts the client first. Key project partners include Datum Engineers, CNG Engineering, Pape Dawson, Rialto Studio, and CBI Group. 

At the new location, Project MEND can now store and process a larger inventory of much-needed medical and assistive technology equipment. “This is an exciting day for Project MEND, our supporters and those that we serve,” said Cathy Valdez, Project MEND CEO. “Our new home makes it possible for us to help more people in the community, with storage space that allows for more inventory and a larger area to repair and refurbish equipment. It also eases the burden on our clients, who can now meet with a caseworker, discuss their needs, and receive equipment all in the same place.” 

To complete the new headquarters, Project MEND enlisted the community’s help through the organization’s first capital campaign. GrayStreet Partners stepped forward to support the effort by donating the parcel of land where the new Project MEND headquarters is located. Bexar County also contributed a $500,000 investment led by Judge Nelson Wolff and the late Commissioner Paul Elizondo. Additional community leaders and organizations, including the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation, the Tres Grace Family Foundation and Harvey Najim, gifted donations. 

Najim gifted a $500,000 donation, for his support the administrative building is named in Najim’s honor. The administrative building will host free events for the community, provide additional space to meet with customers, and allow them to try out their new device in real-world scenarios to ensure safety. “We are honored to be able to provide funding for the new headquarters for Project MEND. They provide vital services to children, seniors, veterans and individuals living with disabilities and illness in San Antonio,” said Harvey Najim, The Najim Charitable Foundation Founder. “We are excited to see the great work and incredible impact Project MEND is going to be able to accomplish with this new campus and proud to be a part of their growth.” 

Project MEND’s new home was completed by the generosity of community leaders and various organizations, including Bexar County ($500,000), Harvey E. Najim ($500,000), Kronkosky Charitable Foundation ($750,000), J.E. & L.E. Mabee Foundation ($575,000), Kym Rapier Verette & Glenn Verette ($500,000), Tres Grace Family Foundation ($275,000), City of San Antonio ($250,000), Nancy Smith Hurd Foundation ($200,000), Impact San Antonio ($100,000), Valero Energy Foundation ($100,000), The Mays Family Foundation ($100,000), The Greehey Family Foundation ($100,000), and The Meadows Foundation ($50,000). 

More about the sustainability and design features of the Project MEND headquarters include: 

Sustainability Features: 

• Orienting the building with the longer exposures North and South 
• Limiting windows to the East and West and use of high performing exterior windows to minimize heat gain; South facing porch shades majority of glass on the project 
• Reduction of the energy load by utilizing high powered fans in the warehouse storage areas in lieu of mechanical conditioning 
• Roof planning for future renewable energy/solar panel integration 
• Native landscape, planting, and seed mixes to reduce watering needs in the future 

Accessibility Features: 

• All public and administrative doors are 42” wide in lieu of the standard 36” 
• The original bus stop was moved from the corner of Wurzbach and Crystal Run to the Project MEND entry, where a shelter and bench waiting area provides clientele easier accessibility to the building. 
• Furniture selections were made to accommodate those who have mobility issues or depend on wheelchairs/assistive devices to move. 
• A Demonstration Area was created where clients learn to use their new equipment in an indoor environment similar to the conditions they may have at home. 

About Project MEND 

Project MEND is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Project MEND is committed to improving the lives of individuals living with disability and illness through the refurbishment, reuse and distribution of medical equipment and other assistive technology. For more information, visit projectmend.org 

Copyright Overland Partners Architects

Binational Park Aims to Restore and Revitalize the River Ecosystem, Attract Tourism and Celebrate Unique Relationship of Two Cities

In strategic meetings during late 2021 with United States Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar, U.S. Consul General for Nuevo Laredo Deanna Kim, and Mexico Ambassador Esteban Moctezuma, and political and business leaders from the South Texas region and  Mexican state of Tamaulipas, members sought ideas that would positively impact local economies, stimulate trade, and enhance tourism, while also celebrating the symbiotic relationship between Laredo and Nuevo Laredo and the river they share. Together, they developed the idea of a binational border park along the banks of the United States’ side of the Rio Grande River, and the Mexican side of the Rio Bravo.

Overland Partners with local associate Able City, were unanimously chosen by Laredo City Council and members of the Binational Working Group, a public-private consortium, to conceptualize this binational river park project. On February 18, a site plan for the 6.3-mile tract, aerial renderings, and eye level perspectives for a one-mile developed stretch was presented to the Mayors and city leadership of Laredo and Nuevo Laredo, the Governor of Tamaulipas, United States Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar, U.S. Consul General for Nuevo Laredo Deanna Kim, along with the Binational Working Group and community and business leaders.

“We are inspired by the Binational River Park and excited by the unique challenges an aspirational project of this magnitude presents – environmentally, socially, and culturally,” said Rick Archer, Overland Senior Principal and CEO.

The 6.3 river mile park has been identified as an ecological restoration project, one that will reestablish the river’s ecosystem, revitalize the economy, add cultural assets, such as public art, and attract tourism on both sides of the river, transforming the space into a distinctive international landmark that joins two communities and nations into one.

With international experts from OLIN Studios and ARUP, and regional engineering firms Crane Engineering and LAN Hydrology, Overland with Able City led a workshop February 7 – 9 with members of the Binational Work Group and key stakeholders to understand project needs and study the surrounding physical context. Nearly 35 people participated in a series of visioning exercises and site visits that resulted in a unified concept of the Binational River Park.

This workshop led to a mission statement to guide the project:

The Binational River Park at the Rio Grande-Rio Bravo in Laredo and Nuevo Laredo connects and celebrates our common culture on the United States and Mexico border. It reclaims our shared history, spurs the economy, promotes security on both sides of the river, and restores the ecological treasure we call home. The first of its kind, this international conservation project enhances our quality of life and serves as a prototype for border cities around the world to follow. Two nations, one community. One river. One park.

“Together with our partners and stakeholders, we want to create an international cultural destination and model for cooperation, conservation and community,” Archer said.

Overland Partners announced today that Robin Blakeley, an accomplished veteran in the sports industry, has joined Overland Partners’ Sports & Entertainment Group in Dallas as Principal. Blakeley, a trailblazer in athletic sales, marketing, athlete representation and fundraising, will lead business strategy and development at Overland.

The son of a Texas athletics coach, Blakeley understood from an early age how sports can unite people of different backgrounds, create life-long relationships, and have the capacity to positively impact campuses, culture and communities. “Athletics is the front door to campus life, bringing family and friends together to create lasting memories,” Blakeley said.

Like Blakeley, his colleagues at Overland Partners recognize the deep connections that are formed through sports and entertainment, as well as the huge impact the industry has on the economy. “Ultimately, the Sports & Entertainment group at Overland is interested in elevating culture, communities and the human experience, while creating the highest-earning venues in the world of sports,” added Blakeley.

Blakeley joins Bryan Trubey, FAIA, who leads the Dallas design practice, along with John Hutchings, FAIA, and a visionary team of architects, designers and strategists. Before joining Overland, Trubey along with many other professionals at HKS, were the driving force behind inspiring and innovative entertainment venues across the world including AT&T Stadium, Lucas Oil Field and SoFi Stadium, which will host Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022.

“Robin’s deep sports knowledge, extraordinary community involvement, and long-lasting relationships are a huge asset to our firm,” said Overland CEO and Senior Principal Rick Archer, FAIA. “In addition, his value system aligns with ours,” continued Archer.

Before his business development career in sports architecture, Blakeley was President of Pursuant Sports, an innovative fundraising and online media solutions service for collegiate athletics, charitable sports foundations, and professional and amateur organizations.

Prior to Pursuant, Blakeley founded Talent Sports International, a sports management and marketing firm, and as President/CEO, represented over 50 professional athletes including Hakeem Olajuwon, Karl Malone, Joe Dumars, Rolando Blackman, Herschel Walker, Will Perdue and Spud Webb.

Blakeley holds a BBA from North Texas University and is a sixth generation Texan, with ancestral ties to the Battle of the Alamo.

He serves as a board member of City Square, the Dallas 2024 Olympic Bid Committee, SHINE Foundation, Braveheart Ministries and Practice Ministries.

Architizer’s global architectural awards program, the 10th Annual A+Awards, is now accepting submissions, with a Main Entry Deadline of December 17th this year. As well as celebrating some of the most innovative, recently-completed projects around the globe, the A+Awards also serves as an incredible indicator for which designers will be at the forefront of innovation in the coming year.

In recognition of this fact, Architizer is delighted to present the third edition of the coveted A+List, an annual run-down of every firm that scooped an A+Award and A+Firm Award in the previous season. The A+List forms a comprehensive guide to the world’s best architecture firms, and is refreshed each year based on the results of the annual A+Awards program.

The 3rd Annual A+List

Wealthy homeowners are purchasing adjacent lots to make room for sports courts, pools and other outdoor amenities.

By Libertina Brandt

Cheryl DeSisto spent her New Jersey childhood playing in her backyard until dark. But that was something her three children seldom did at their home in Manhattan Beach, Calif. To remedy that, Ms. DeSisto took an unusual step: In 2018, she bought the house next door for about $3.2 million, tore it down and turned the roughly 5,000-square-foot lot into an outdoor play space for her children.

“When we moved in here, I just kept envisioning this yard next door for my children to play,” said Ms. DeSisto, 50.

Read the original article on The Wall Street Journal.