What to do about that empty box store…

Across the U.S., empty big-box stores and oversized parking lots sit underutilized, representing a major opportunity to rethink land use and urban design. This conceptual redevelopment of a former Toys R Us site in West Virginia demonstrates how these spaces can be transformed to better serve today’s needs.

By repurposing this vacant site, the design introduces 61 medium-density housing units, four mixed-use commercial spaces, and a network of walkable streets designed to create a sense of community. The existing oversized roads are right-sized to improve safety and mobility, adding pedestrian infrastructure where none currently exists. The new layout prioritizes connectivity, integrating sidewalks, crosswalks, and a dedicated green space with walking and biking paths.

This redevelopment not only addresses the pressing demand for housing but also enhances public safety, increases tax revenue, and creates a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environment. By reimagining sites like this across the country, we can build more sustainable, livable communities that reflect the needs of today.