Pier 70 in San Francisco is a historic waterfront site located in the city's Dogpatch neighborhood. Once a bustling hub for shipbuilding and industrial activity, it is one of the oldest continually operating shipyards in the United States. Today, Pier 70 is undergoing a transformation into a vibrant mixed-use destination, featuring restored historic buildings, public parks, art installations, and spaces for dining, shopping, and events. This redevelopment preserves its industrial heritage while creating a dynamic space for the community, making it a unique blend of history and modern urban revitalization. *This project is still in development. The completion date is to be determined*

The Populus Hotel in Denver is a striking example of placemaking through sustainability, design, and urban integration. Touted as the first carbon-positive hotel in the United States, Populus is more than just a place to stay—it’s a thoughtfully designed destination that enhances the cultural, environmental, and social fabric of downtown Denver. Placemaking Elements at Populus: Sustainable Identity – The hotel goes beyond carbon neutrality by investing in reforestation and ecological restoration, turning sustainability into a core aspect of its public image and experience. This environmental commitment reflects growing public values and enhances community pride. Architectural Character – Designed by the renowned firm Studio Gang, Populus features a distinctive façade inspired by aspen tree eyes, blending natural forms with modern architecture. The building itself becomes a visual landmark, contributing to Denver’s skyline and identity. Public Engagement Spaces – The hotel includes rooftop and ground-level gathering spaces, such as cafes, event areas, and a restaurant, that are open to both guests and locals—fostering community interaction and urban activation. Urban Integration – Located near Denver’s Civic Center, the hotel encourages walkability, connectivity, and engagement with local attractions, aligning with placemaking goals of mobility and accessibility. Economic & Cultural Vitality – Populus contributes to the city’s economy while celebrating local art, nature, and sustainability values, making it not just a hotel, but a cultural and ecological statement in urban development.

The Korean Demilitarized Zone is a strip of land running across the Korean Peninsula near the 38th parallel north. The demilitarized zone (DMZ) is a border barrier that divides the peninsula roughly in half. It was established to serve as a buffer zone between the countries of North Korea and South Korea under the provisions of the Korean Armistice Agreement in 1953, an agreement between North Korea, China, and the United Nations Command. Within the DMZ is a meeting point between the two nations, where negotiations take place: the small Joint Security Area (JSA) near the western end of the zone. Panmunjom was where the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement that ended the Korean War was signed. The building where the armistice was signed still stands.