John R Hedrick
John R. Hedrick is an attorney and consultant who currently focuses on community and urban design issues. He is now also sharing his experience and related interests. Contact at: mdrn.consulting@me.com
Personal and Technology Connections
Balancing Heritage and Technology
This month I’m combining some insights where my personal interests converge with community planning and architecture. I’ve been digging deeper into my ancestral roots, and my continuing interest in the East Coast took me to Newport, RI - a prime example of how to maintain the past we must adapt to modern technology.
My “Circles” Book on TV
My “Circles” Book on TV
I recently had the chance to discuss my book, "The Circles: An Architectural Heritage," on Glenview Television with host Yvonne Wolf. This was a great opportunity to explore a challenging balance of neighborhood design and architectural conservation. And in the process touch on Downtown revitalization, “Blocktoberfests” and related suburban design issues.
Celebrating Holidays Through Public Art
With summer holidays we plunge into a season of public celebration and wide range of emotions. From pride in our nation’s history to reflecting on political challenges, summer holidays evoke powerful sentiments.
Looking Back to Greece for Future Conservation
My visit to Greece provided new insights for Historic conservation.
Public Murals: Painting theTown
Wall murals have been used effectively in historic “Main Street” revitalization efforts for many years. As new urbanism spreads to the suburbs (and more retail areas are struggling to recover) such murals may now be considered to add interest for more conventional shopping areas. This can get complicated.
From Florida Shores to Suburban Stores- Finding Beauty!
“Some people look for a beautiful place; Others make a place beautiful” - Hazrat Inayat Khan
This quote resonated with me after returning from my recent trip from the coast of Florida to the familiar streets of suburban Chicago. I find it fascinating how our surroundings influence us and, more importantly, how we have the power to influence our places in return. Here’s my latest observations …
Season’s Best Shows
Movies to Orchids - and TV gig
This time of year my attention turns to “showtime,” from Oscar movies to the annual indoor show at the Chicago Botanic Garden. There's something about this transitional season to share entertainment interests - and even my personal foray into local TV.
Seeing Vibrant Town Design
The village of Arlington Heights, not far from my hometown, has long exemplified a vibrant suburban Downtown and entertainment destination.
Mural or Billboard - New Look for Community Revitalization
Wall murals have been used effectively in “Main Street” revitalization efforts for many years – and often in smaller historic cities (as shown). As new urbanism spreads to the suburbs (and more retail areas are struggling to recover) such murals may now be considered to add interest for more conventional shopping areas.
Can Towns Still Afford Quality Design?
With many new challenges for our communities, we will face difficult choices in restarting our MainStreet businesses and local economies. But we have to remain focused on what made our towns livable and vital: thoughtful planning and attractive design!