Why start Redevelopment with a rendering?
In commercial redevelopment, architectural renderings are a powerful way to reframe what already exists. This helps stakeholders see the possibilities and can spark renewed market interest, build community anticipation, and support leasing momentum ahead of the physical transformation. At Lion Square in Houston’s Asiatown, PRISM Renderings helped visualize a strategic transformation that blends cultural identity, modern design, and walkability.
Whitestone REIT is redeveloping the 117,592-square-foot retail center at Bellaire Boulevard and Wilcrest Drive—already visited by over 2 million people each year—into a vibrant, community-focused destination. Michael Hsu Office of Architecture leads the design, which integrates modern architecture with traditional Chinese and Vietnamese design elements.
PRISM’s architectural renderings include detailed views of planned upgrades to:
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Building facades and exterior materials
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Landscape design
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Pedestrian pathways, lighting, and signage
Lion Square is anchored by Sun Wing Supermarket and a fully leased lineup of Asian retailers and restaurants. One 5,100-square-foot restaurant pad remains available, providing a rare leasing opportunity in a tightly held market.
By providing both daytime and evening renderings, Prism helped:
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Communicate the design intent clearly to stakeholders
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Accelerate design and permitting approvals
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Generate community interest and media coverage
“The redevelopment plan we designed for Lion Square was thoughtfully conceived with critical input from architects and planners who are fully ingrained in the Asian culture and are deeply aware of how meaningful this center is to this neighborhood.”
—Christine Mastandrea, President & COO, Whitestone REIT
