Winner of AIA Dallas Unbuilt juror citation award: In a city where development happens fast, what does it mean to create a project that is of, by, and for a neighborhood? Deep Ellum is the cultural and alternative heart of Dallas, a place of authenticity and acceptance for many. With new towers going up frequently and real estate values constantly increasing, what could be a healthy and community-focused way of acknowledging development pressures and increasing density?  As an alternative to typical high rise development of luxury rentals, multi-million dollar condos, and high-rent offices, what might a new tower development that is rooted in the community look like?

The Deep Ellum SKELETOWER is a one-of-a-kind high rise. This ain’t your daddy’s skyscraper.  A skeletal structure is provided (minimizing the initial build out cost) and individual condos are then parceled out and sold to local businesses and residents.  These new owners then build out their own “building” up in the sky, making their mark on Dallas’ skyline.  A lively and pleasant mix of residences, offices, art galleries and studios, hair salons, tattoo shops, restaurants, and retail populate the tower.

Beaconing to passing pedestrians, the PATH invites people to come up and experience the life and activity of the SKELETOWER. The PATH is publicly accessible and winds up the entire height of the tower, providing open access to the heights usually reserved for office workers and executives. You can wander up the gentle one mile slope to your favorite ice cream shop or barber, enjoying the unparalleled views along the way.

The SKELETOWER strives to be a place for all, bringing the heights usually reserved for the elite to the people.