Downtown renovation: Dallas style.(Living and Working in Downtown Dallas)

It's called "the new urbanism"

It's the idea that neighborhoods should be close-knit cooperatives rather than sprawling "bedroom communities." It's the idea that infrastructure should support pedestrians instead of being geared toward vehicles only. And it's the idea that architecture should reflect the character of the city instead of designed to look like every other city in the United State.

As a company with a large stake in the revitalization of downtown Dallas, Southwest Properties Group, Inc. embraces the "new urbanism concept." The reason behind Southwest Properties' intense interest in returning downtown Dallas from a near-forgotten city center into a vibrant, welcoming community is due to the vision of the company's founder, Cliff Booth. Booth grew up in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, a world-class city known for its close-knit neighborhoods, outstanding architecture and ability to move people from point A to point B.

"Because of my upbringing, I have an understanding of how the truly urban downtowns can work, and a great affection for those that succeed," Booth said. In addition, Booth has lived …