The IKEA-anchored University Oaks shopping center in Round Rock was de­veloped by addressing environmental con­cerns and sound retail business practices.

The center houses 590,580 square feet of retail at 1-35 and University Oaks Boule­vard. Developed by Endeavor Real Estate Group, it includes a Wachovia, PetsMart, REI, Ross, J.C. Penney, Jo-Ann Fabric & Crafts, Mattress Firm and a Mighty Fine Burgers.

Development of the land required the de­commissioning of a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant with a successful cleanup of the contaminated worksite. The developer also created the project around the preser­vation ofa 110-year-old oak tree that is now the focus of an outdoor deck and children’s playground.

Endeavor worked on energy efficiency with REI and Jo-Ann Fabric to obtain envi­ronmentally friendly LEED certi fication. In addition to using recyled materials during construction, the two stores practice wa­ter conservation and use energy-efficient lighting.