The world of real estate and urban development mourns the loss of Tom Cousins, an iconic figure whose visionary projects and philanthropic endeavors left an indelible mark on Atlanta and beyond. Passing away at the age of 93, Cousins’ legacy lives on through the transformation and revitalization of communities that continue to thrive today.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born in Atlanta in 1930, Tom Cousins exhibited an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. His formative years were marked by his interest in architecture and community development, paving the way for a career that would reshape Atlanta’s skyline. After graduating from the University of Georgia, Cousins ventured into real estate, starting small but dreaming big.

The Birth of Cousins Properties

In 1958, Tom Cousins founded Cousins Properties Incorporated, a real estate company that would soon become synonymous with innovation and success. Through strategic developments and savvy investments, Cousins Properties grew to become one of the leading real estate firms in the United States. Cousins was known not just for his business acumen but also for his ability to foresee the potential in underdeveloped urban areas.

A Visionary Developer

Transforming Downtown Atlanta

Tom Cousins is perhaps best known for his role in the transformation of downtown Atlanta. In the 1970s, when the city was struggling with urban decay, Cousins spearheaded projects that rejuvenated its economy and cultural landscape. His development of the CNN Center, alongside other landmark projects, established Atlanta as a bustling hub of commerce and communication.

• Developed the CNN Center in collaboration with media mogul Ted Turner
• Revitalized historic districts while maintaining cultural heritage
• Implemented sustainable practices in urban development

These initiatives not only spurred economic growth but also drew attention to the potential of urban renewal as a tool for revitalizing other neglected areas across the country.

The East Lake Experiment

One of Cousins’ most significant contributions came in the form of the East Lake Meadows project. Recognizing the challenges faced by this struggling neighborhood, Cousins co-founded the East Lake Foundation in the 1990s to transform the community through a holistic approach that integrated housing, education, and community wellness.

• Transformed East Lake Meadows housing project into a mixed-income community
• Established the Drew Charter School to provide quality education
• Created the Charlie Yates Golf Course to offer recreational opportunities

This “East Lake Experiment” became a model for community revitalization efforts nationwide, demonstrating the power of public-private partnerships in addressing systemic poverty and inequality.

Philanthropy and Impact

Beyond Real Estate: A Commitment to Social Change

While Tom Cousins was renowned for his achievements in real estate, his philanthropic work cemented his legacy as a force for good. Cousins believed in the transformative power of education, health, and community engagement, and he dedicated substantial resources to initiatives that addressed these areas.

• Co-funded the Purpose Built Communities network to replicate the East Lake model
• Donated to causes focused on education, healthcare, and community development
• Established scholarships and funding for educational programs

Honors and Legacy

Throughout his life, Tom Cousins received numerous accolades recognizing his contributions to real estate and philanthropy. He was inducted into the Junior Achievement’s U.S. Business Hall of Fame and received the prestigious Urban Land Institute J.C. Nichols Prize for Visionaries in Urban Development, among other honors.

Cousins’ impact on Atlanta and the broader field of urban development continues to be felt today. His pioneering efforts serve as a testament to the power of visionary thinking and compassionate action in reshaping communities for the better.

Remembering Tom Cousins: His Enduring Influence

A leaver of legacies and pioneer of change, Tom Cousins’ passing marks the end of an era, but his influence endures in the vibrant neighborhoods he helped rejuvenate and the lives he uplifted through his charitable endeavors.

As we reflect on his life and contributions, we are reminded of the transformative potential of combining entrepreneurship with a commitment to social change. Within urban development and beyond, Cousins’ legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps, striving to create better communities for all.

Tom Cousins leaves behind a city transformed, communities reborn, and a legacy that will continue to guide the fields of real estate development and social entrepreneurship for generations to come.