Houston—January 15, 2008—Distinction is not for the faint of heart, and the 2008 ULI Houston Development of Distinction Award program honored the risk takers and bold thinkers who create Houston’s best places.

Origin planned, created and managed all aspects of the 2008 ULI Houston Development of Distinction Awards, focused on the Urban Land Institute’s effort to identify and promote best practices in all real estate development types. The awards recognize the full development process—construction, economic viability, environmental stewardship, marketing and management—as well as design.

“Origin worked its magic on the award event,” said ULI Houston chair, Reid Wilson. “It is because of visionary leaders like Ann Taylor and Origin that ULI can be its best.”

With more than 34,000 members worldwide, the Urban Land Institute has a powerful brand to maintain. Origin gave all things visual relating to the award—from invitations to event program, banners, signage, and email and web announcements—a distinctive look fitting the brand. Origin also created an unforgettable experience at the sold-out event, with motion graphics and event design, including Origin Public Relations Director, Ann Taylor, as event emcee.

“I am proud that Origin supports the mission of the Urban Land Institute,” Taylor says. “ULI spans all interest groups, from developers to neighborhood preservationists, architects, engineers, construction companies, attorneys, brokers, investors and the public sector, to encourage best practices in building thriving, sustainable communities.”

The first-ever Houston event raised funds to support educational outreach through ULI, including the donation of a ULI library to the community development program of Prairie View A&M University.

For more information, www.uli-houston.org