As a key component of Rockville’s broader revitalization efforts, Rockville Town Square replaced an out-of-date mall with a vibrant community core. Led by a public-private partnership, the project sought to address the city’s challenges, including a failed shopping mall, declining retail economy, and a shortage of multifamily housing.

At WDG Architecture, Alex Dickson served as Senior Designer, helping shape a walkable, community-centered town square. The design prioritized public gathering spaces, fostering an environment for open-air events and social interaction. Careful planning ensured the development respected historic buildings, integrating them seamlessly into the existing urban fabric.

Rockville Town Square is a high-density transit-oriented project that incorporates 675,000 square feet of retail and residential into five mixed-use buildings surrounding a large public green. The project includes a public library, a business innovation center, a Metropolitan Center for the Visual Arts, shops and restaurants, a grocery, a drug store, and more than 600 residential units.

Guided by architectural principles of hierarchy, building increment, and wide access, the project drew inspiration from both local and global urban precedents, embracing the timeless appeal of traditional main streets and town squares. The result is a dynamic, pedestrian-friendly hub that revitalizes Rockville’s retail and residential landscape while reinforcing its sense of place.

As Senior Designer at WDG Architecture, Alex Dickson was in charge of developing the exterior design for all the four mixed-use residential buildings for the project team.