Park Row Estates is a historically important neighborhood in South Dallas that had been neglected in recent decades, with many empty and untended lots. Dallas City Homes, a non-profit community developer, acquired a number of these, with the intent of providing affordable housing opportunities, while repairing years of neglect and demolition with careful infill development.

DSGN worked with Dallas City Homes to design a series of prototypes that could be built over time, repairing the damaged urban fabric of Park Row Estates. The prototypes varied in size, in order to adapt to the variety of existing lot widths, as well as providing a range of choices for potential buyers. In addition, each home was designed to re-establish a sense of safety and community by utilizing “eyes-on-the street” strategies, with two-story massing, generous porches, balconies, and generous windows. Access for cars was moved to the rear to strengthen the pedestrian environment and urban continuity along the street.