Four years ago, our journey with the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District (PHXJAX) began in collaboration with Christy Frazier, the visionary entrepreneur who laid the foundation for this vibrant district before Future of Cities became involved. The team at Future of Cities (Tony Cho, Michael Weil, Emily Moody, Brendan McKeon) has inspired us to rethink how we approach creating a sense of place, guiding us toward the principles of regenerative placemaking.
This concept goes beyond traditional public spaces, embracing an inclusive, community-centered approach that co-creates developments to meet the unique needs and foster the growth of the neighborhood. At Future of Cities, they anchor their approach in three core pillars: community, nature, and culture. Values our team is now working to thread through our other urban developments.
Recently the Future of Cities team opened the 17,000-square-foot Emerald Station a repurposed warehouse that includes 7,000 square feet of creative offices, conference rooms, an in-house catering kitchen / event facility and a space for the city of Jacksonville’s Small and Emerging Business incubator. When fully realized, the Phoenix Arts District will encompass 10 distinct properties, including the transformation of four warehouses and green spaces into dynamic hubs of activity. These spaces will feature office space, artist studios, galleries, retail shops, restaurants, and several multi-family housing opportunities — creating a harmonious blend of functionality, creativity, and community-driven design. We couldn't be more proud of the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District (PHXJAX) team. Olivia Steinemann Sam Middlekauff #commercialrealestate #realestate #mixeduserealestate #florida #jacksonville #placemaking #retail #office