Dressing up Vacant Downtown Storefronts

Oct. 4, 2011 - PRLog -- Vacant storefront windows are a familiar sight in many communities, but with a little creativity, these eyesores can become assets. Some communities are using artwork to brighten storefronts, while others are using faux fronts to demonstrate the potential of vacant spaces.

Last November, vacant windows in downtown San Francisco, CA, were brought back to life in time for the holidays via The Windows project.

A website, http://www.thewindows.org, offered design guidelines for the one-of-a-kind holiday installations, and event information for an unveiling party.

Guests received a map with locations and details about each holiday diorama to visit on party day, or at a later date. The public was also invited to send text votes for favorite designs.

The theme for the windows was "home," as each artist chose to interpret that word. Awards were given for a Celebrity Judge's Pick and People's Choice.

The Windows project resulted in 14 art installations that added to the holiday magic downtown.

Additional information on this program and those in Waukegan, IL, and the United Kingdom are in the October issue of "Downtown Promotion Reporter."

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About the Downtown Research & Development Center

For over 50 years, the Downtown Research & Development Center has acted as the information clearinghouse on practical strategies and tactics for revitalizing the hearts of our cities and towns.

The Group's main activities include publishing the widely influential "Downtown Idea Exchange" and "Downtown Promotion Reporter" newsletters; publishing relevant books and reports; and operating the DowntownDevelopment.com website.

Website: http://www.DowntownDevelopment.com