London and St Louis-based design studio Kiku Obata & Company is overseeing the redevelopment of an ageing downtown district in the US heartland, in a rural town where big-box stores have taken over (+ slideshow).
Kiku Obata & Company is overseeing the redevelopment of an ageing downtown district in Mount Sterling, Illinois
The studio is helping revive the historic central business district of Mount Sterling ? a town with 2,000 residents in Brown County, Illinois, which was founded in the mid 1800s.
It has overseen the implementation of various projects, including the renovation of historic buildings, the restoration of a water tower, the preservation of the post office's facade and signage, and a lighting scheme for the old courthouse.  
The studio renovated the Hagel building ? one of the oldest in the town ? converting the space into a new restaurant
"The process began with a comprehensive study of Mount Sterling's history, built environment and existing plan, as well as the local economy and demographics to determine redevelopment opportunities," the studio said.
Similar to many towns in the US, Mount Sterling's urban core has declined over the years as large retailers have emerged in outlying areas.
 
Kiku Obata has begun renovation of historic buildings on Main Street to be used for retail space
"Mount Sterling is representative of the plight facing many rural towns in America, where maintaining a historic, pedestrian-friendl...