Block by Block

The Central Street Evanston shopping district’s incorporation into a real and diverse city neighborhood is the inspiration for this street banner design that I developed in collaboration with my wife, Jessica Jacobs. We chose to locate our design businesses in a street-level storefront on Central Street because of the beauty, history, architecture, and accessibility. Put in a more cynical way: It’s not the mall.

The humble city block, cast aside by urban planners for decades, has made a strong comeback. We now know that endless suburban sprawl and an over-dependence on the automobile did not make good neighborhoods, shopping districts, or a healthy earth. Through-traffic, sidewalks, and land-use diversity make healthy, vibrant neighborhoods.

Central Street’s unique collection of shops, restaurants, and professionals make up an exciting mosaic of businesses. Block by Block is our celebration of both the city block and the wonderful diversity of Central Street.