This courtyard was a small but instrumental part of the larger renovation work performed for Lake | Flato’s historic San Antonio office building. Situated between two buildings surrounded by sprawling urban paving, this courtyard is an oasis for building tenants and visitors alike. Fast growing sycamores race towards the sky, casting cooling shadows which work in tandem with the neighboring shade structure to create a pleasant year-round microclimate. Brick repurposed from the building’s facade is woven between large concrete pavers, minimizing project waste. A lush understory plant palette of sedges, dwarf palmetto, and Turk’s cap envelope the user, softening the sounds of the city beyond. The courtyard serves as the main office gathering space, hosting community farmers markets and weekly design charettes. It is a space dedicated to rejuvenation during a stressful week and the cultivation of creativity when designing to make the world a better place.