American Building by Michael Graves Architecture and Design

What's shaping the future of real estate development? The industry is facing some of its biggest challenges yet: Rising construction costs, tariffs, shifting investment trends, and an evolving residential market redefining how and where we live, work and stay. But with changes comes opportunity. Join us for season four of American Building as we dive into the urgent questions shaping the built environment in the year ahead. I'm Atif Qadir, a licensed architect turned developer and the creator of this podcast, along with Michael Graves Architecture and Design. In each episode, we sit down with the most forward-thinking real estate developers who are actively shaping the built world. This season, we're featuring some of the most exciting voices in development. We'll hear from Ben Weinberg and Michael Weiss of Castle Peak Holdings as they discuss boutique hospitality and the evolution of experiential travel from their hotel in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. We'll also hear from Oliver Carr of Carr Properties who shares the story of his landmark One Congress project in downtown Boston. Beyond the challenges, we'll unpack the creative solutions developers are using to adapt and thrive in this volatile economy, from navigating financing in a high interest rate environment to pioneering new markets and products. These conversations offer an inside look at their projects shaping the future of cities across the US. Subscribe and tune in the first episode of season four on Wednesday, June 11th. More From American Building Grab the exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to The Housing Crisis Learn more on the American Building websiteFollow on LinkedInFollow on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael Graves Architecture & Design

What does the housing crisis actually entail? To wrap up Season 3 of American Building, I'm joined by Keith Rand, Vice President at Mill Creek Residential, to discuss the main housing production issues Americans face today and different solutions to address them. We look at limitations with local and state government policy and unpack the proposed housing supply plan from the White House. In our conversation, Keith explains the root cause of the supply and demand imbalance in New York City. Between the exorbitant cost of land, insurance, and property taxes, the city that more than 8 million people call home is increasingly unaffordable and unsustainable. Keith breaks down a potential rezoning approach called “Own Your Air,” which promotes diverse housing stock and reinvestment into underserved neighborhoods. Keith shares his perspective on the most pressing issues we need to tackle when it comes to housing production and affordability, namely starting with local and state government policy. He highlights inefficiencies in large-scale tax credit programs and suggests ways to improve them. We also reflect on inspiring progress we've seen in state legislatures across the country, including California, Colorado, and Texas. About the Guest:Keith Rand is Vice President at Mill Creek Residential, the 3rd largest residential rental development company in the country. Previously, he worked in senior roles at Stonehenge and Greystar. He began his career at Silverstein Properties and JP Morgan Chase. Keith is a graduate of Duke University, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, and the Kennedy School at Harvard.Topics Covered:Shared housing challenges of rural and urban landscapes Highlights from Keith's time working for the Bloomberg administrationHow the lack of standardization in real estate creates challenges in housing development Thoughtful ways to lower property taxes for rental housing in New York City Ideas for building out the Section 8 voucher program Approaching housing from an empathetic, holistic perspective Resources Mentioned: FACT SHEET: President Biden's Budget Lowers Housing Costs and Expands Access to Affordable Rent and Home Ownership Episode 62 with Melissa Román Burch Progress and Poverty by Henry George About Your Host: Atif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Keith Rand: Connect with Keith on LinkedInFollow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more

Garden-style apartments offer residents the best of both worlds: green space and lower density living without the upkeep and price tag of a single-family home. In this episode, I trace back to the origins of garden-style apartments and highlight who lives in them now. I also revisit a conversation with developer Matt Giammanco of AvalonBay Communities to discuss Thanet Circle, a new multi-building garden-style apartment complex in Princeton, New Jersey.Located in a suburban environment that is walkable, bikeable, and in need of rental housing, Matt shares how he and his team chose and developed this project. They saw the opportunity to redevelop a 1980s, vintage office building into a townhome neighborhood with a community clubhouse. Located on 15 acres of land, the four-story buildings are a secluded and quiet place for those looking for rental options in the Princeton area. We also dive into AvalonBay's regional approach to development and how they use local, on-the-ground knowledge to ensure the successful completion of their projects. Listen in to learn how this project was financed, redeveloped, and to discuss the technology that is being used today in the development world. About the Guest:Matt Giammanco is a Senior Director of Development at AvalonBay Communities. He previously worked at Goldman Sachs Real Estate Investment Group and began his career at Ernst and Young in their transactions real estate group. He is a graduate of Columbia Business School and Penn State.Topics Covered:Key characteristics of garden-style apartments The intersection of race, class, and garden-style apartments Examples of how garden-style apartments fill the gap between affordable and luxury housingWhy Princeton is a desirable town for development The benefits of public financing programs Affordable housing laws in New JerseyHow Thanet Circle was financed Resources Mentioned: Instead of a Balcony, How About a Garden Apartment? “The Suburbs” by Arcade Fire and the 2014 cover by Mr. Little Jeans on SpotifyAbout Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Matt GiammancoConnect with Matt Giammanco on LinkedInFollow AvalonBay Communities on LinkedInLearn more about AvalonBay Communities Follow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on

Dorm life is a quintessential part of the American university experience, but that wasn't always the case. In this episode, I outline the history of dormitories and share an edited version of my conversation with Arthi Krishnamoorthy, Senior Principal at TenBerke, to discuss the firm's residential college project on the Princeton campus. After three years of attending Zoom school, college students are setting records for on-campus housing demand. Mixed with the ever-rising rent prices in college towns, many universities are reimagining the traditional dorm model to accommodate the crowds. Arthi is working closely with the stakeholders at Princeton to ensure the new multi-building dormitory complex enhances student well-being, integrates living environments, and fosters a sense of community and responsibility. Located strategically on the edge of campus in a woodland area, the two new residential colleges consist of eight new buildings that house approximately 1,000 students. Each building features a transparent base that encourages community involvement through visibility and encompasses a contemporary style to the rest of the campus. Princeton's ten-year plan aims to significantly increase the undergraduate student population as well as their living and dining hall options on campus. Arthi explains how symbolic and detailed architecture ensures that students will be overcome with a sense of discovery and community through this new endeavor. Note: New College East has since been renamed Yeh College since this episode was originally recorded.About the Guest:Arthi Krishnamoorthy is a Senior Principal at TenBerke, which is the new name of Deborah Berke Partners, the NYC-based design firm. Prior to Deborah Berke Partners, she worked at and started her career at Pelli Clarke & Partners. Arthi is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and the University of Pennsylvania.Topics Covered:Historical dormitories associated with colonial collegesHow on-campus student housing has changed since the inception of dormitories The controversial trend of windowless dorm rooms Examples of universities that are exploring unconventional off-campus housing solutions How the undergraduate residential college system worksWayfinding and its importance on a college campusBuilding community and awareness on a campusHow to give students choice through architecture Resources Mentioned: The Dystopian Windowless Dormzilla Trend Continues About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Arthi KrishnamoorthyConnect with Arthi Krishnamoorthy on LinkedInConnect with TenBerke on LinkedInLearn more about TenBerkeFollow Us: Grab our exclusive guide:

Between the global financial crisis, tanking housing production, and rapid inflation, housing affordability for middle income workers has become increasingly out-of-reach. Workforce housing, a type of unregulated affordable housing, addresses the limitations that professionals like teachers, healthcare providers, and retail clerks are facing when it comes to owning a home. In this episode, I unpack the concept of workforce housing and revisit a conversation with Peter Brosens, founder of Stolar Capital, where we cover the details of Chatham on Main, his firm's garden-style, multifamily complex in Chatham, New Jersey.Located in an affluent town 45 minutes from Manhattan, Chatham on Main is a 118-unit property featuring one- and two-bedroom floor plans. The extensive renovations include roofing, shutters, lighting, and landscaping. Stolar Capital specializes in buying mixed-use or multifamily properties and repositioning them through asset management. Peter shares the challenges he faced starting out, which ultimately led him to specialize in this area. He also walks us through approval processes, why he prefers buying and fixing existing property, and the importance of relationships in real estate. About the Guest:Peter Brosens is the founder of Stolar Capital, a real estate investment firm with offices in Hoboken and in Philadelphia. The firm's focus since 2012 has been on developing large mixed-use projects in transit-oriented downtown locations in New Jersey. In addition, he has raised a 10 million specialty financing fund to focus on investment in repositioning multi-family residential assets across the country. Prior to starting at Stolar Capital, Peter worked at the JBG companies in Washington, DC. He is a Columbia University alum.Topics Covered:What workforce housing is and who it serves Why the term ‘workforce housing' is considered controversial Ways that Chatham on Main delivers a best-in-class living experience What goes into the development approval processThe metrics and criteria that Peter uses to determine which communities to invest in Key takeaways from the early days of Stolar Capital Resources Mentioned: Workforce housing and middle-income housing subsidies: A primer About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Peter BrosensConnect with Peter Brosens on LinkedInFollow Stolar Capital on LinkedInLearn more about Stolar CapitalFollow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on...

You can't have a conversation about affordable housing without acknowledging the impact of rent regulation. Also known as rent control, rent stabilization or rent limits, these coveted units offer occupants a sense of stability by guaranteeing their monthly rent payment won't skyrocket year after year. So, why is regulated affordable housing so hard to come by? Developer Andrew Regenstreich has an idea. Andrew was the former Director of Real Estate and Economic Development of Housing and Neighborhood Development Services (HANDS). In this episode, I'm revisiting a conversation we had to discuss the agency's affordable housing project at 523 Freeman Street in Orange, New Jersey. The site is a centrally-located mixed-use property with four stories. Perfect for young professionals, the building houses one and two-bedroom units with 1,500 square feet of commercial use on the ground floor, as well as access to public art and a rain garden. In this episode, Andrew and I discuss what affordability means, the funding involved, and what kind of timeline to expect when developing affordable housing. Andrew shares the team he put together for this project and how he makes sure that his buildings reflect the community around them and the people who live there. About the Guest:Andrew Regenstreich is the former Director of Real Estate and Economic Development at Housing and Neighborhood Development Services (HANDS). HANDS is a developer of affordable housing in New Jersey. Andrew previously worked at New Jersey Community Capital. He's a graduate of NYU and Northeastern and while at NYU he had an opportunity to work at the Massachusetts legislature, the US Senate and the US State Department.Topics Covered:The difference between unregulated and regulated affordable housingWhy many developers are interested in the unregulated affordable housing marketWhat a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) is and the role it plays in affordable housingChallenges of building in Orange, New JerseyWhy is affordable housing necessary? The difference between federal, state, and local funding for affordable housing Different incentives for developing affordable housing Resources Mentioned: Multifamily Series: How Affordable Housing is Changing About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Andrew RegenstreichConnect with Andrew Regenstreich on LinkedInFollow Housing and Neighborhood Development Services on LinkedInLearn more about Housing and Neighborhood Development ServicesFollow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn...

As the old adage goes, a man's home is his castle. That doesn't mean that every home is a castle or a mansion, but in this day and age, it could very well be a McMansion. In this episode, I explore the history of mansions and how the style has been interpreted by millions of suburban homeowners. I also revisit a conversation I had with Kirk Mitchell of AKT Designs about his single-family home renovation in Englewood, New Jersey that exemplifies how to avoid tired McMansion tropes. In the suburbs of New York City, it's common for developers to knock down existing properties and replace them with supersized homes. Instead, Kirk found a way to marry the client's desires, budget, and current design trends to create a modern ranch-style home. By adding a second kitchen, home gym, and billiards room, the house now strikes a balance between the client's request for a modern ski chalet and a bachelor pad. Kirk shares his step-by-step process for renovating this type of property, including coming up with floor plans, construction drawings, and interior design ideas. We also discuss the importance of having the right development team, using Pinterest to create mood boards and design ideas, and some of Kirk's other multi-family and commercial projects. About the Guest:Kirk Mitchell is the Founder and Principal at AKT Designs, an architecture and interior design firm based in Bergen County, New Jersey. He focuses on residential projects across New York and New Jersey. He has particular expertise in combining historic details with modern technology, having completed over 80 townhouse projects at AKT Designs and previously as the Director of Design and Construction for a Dixon Advisory.Topics Covered:What is a mansion? Typical design elements of mansions and McMansions How the McMansion trend continues to affect suburban neighborhoods Insight into the community in and around Bergen CountyHow to add value to a property while honoring a client's desiresThe pros and cons of modernizing instead of rebuilding Resources Mentioned: Bad Manors by Kate Wagner Kate Wagner's blog: McMansion Hell About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Kirk MitchellConnect with Kirk Mitchell on LinkedInFollow AKT Designs on LinkedInLearn more about AKT DesignsFollow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on

The racially-charged NIMBY, or ‘not in my backyard', phenomenon is at the core of zoning laws, particularly in the greater New York City area. In this episode, I take us back to the early 1900s to look at the nation's first zoning resolution and examine how it continues to affect communities today. I also revisit a conversation with developer Johanna Anderson, the executive director of Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services, to learn more about a mixed-use affordable housing development in upstate New York. Founders Way is a mixed-use structure that boasts two separate wings with a new addition of studios to four-bedroom homes, as well as office space for rental and for sale. With a project of this size, Johanna discusses how she involved the community to preserve the existing design of the neighborhood and enhance structures, without creating a stark difference in architecture. We also touch on some barriers to housing such as racial disparity and affordable housing stigma. We define what exactly these concepts are and the impact they've had on Ithaca, as well as how climate change has affected housing in the area. About the Guest:Johanna Anderson is the executive director of Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services. This nonprofit organization focuses on the development and operations of housing for lower and middle-income people in Central New York State. Prior to working at INHS, she focused on affordable housing development and support services for native people in Maine and in Minnesota. She has also held board member roles in other nonprofit organizations working in this arena.Topics Covered:The history of zoning in the greater New York City area as a means of separating usesExamples of mixed-use projects and why they work in combining usesDifferent types of affordable housing Funding options for affordable housing projects Who can live in affordable housing?Constraints when building affordable housingResources Mentioned: The Birth of Zoning Codes, a History. Or, how Americans learned to legislate our NIMBY impulsesDiverse neighborhoods are made of diverse housing About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Johanna AndersonConnect with Johanna Anderson on LinkedInFollow Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services on LinkedInLearn more about Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services Follow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the

Whether it's called a shore house, weekend home or cottage, the concept remains the same: escape from the city. The cultural phenomenon of staying at a non-primary residence during the summer is especially pervasive in New York City. In this episode, I look into the history of vacation homes in the tri-state area and how the current work-from-home culture impacts these communities. I also revisit a conversation with architect Jenny Peysin to discuss the Passive House movement and learn about her unique build in the Catskill region of upstate New York.Wilderness Drive in East Jewett is located near Hunter Mountain on a 5-acre lot. It's a single-story, modern bungalow featuring two wings with five bedrooms and three baths. Central to the tenets of Passive Houses, the build has more insulation, minimalized thermal bridging, and an airtight envelope, all of which ensure a comfortable temperature throughout. In our conversation, Jenny walks us through her initial vision for this build as a client project and how it turned into a personal vacation home instead. We also dive into the history of Passive Houses, LEED vs. Passive House building criteria, and why they make great second homes for families. About the Guest:Jenny Peysin is a licensed architect based in Brooklyn. She founded Jenny Peysin Architecture in 2016. She previously worked as a designer at Blaze Makoid Architecture. She became a Certified Passive House Designer right before the pandemic and has been shifting her focus toward this way of designing and building,Topics Covered:The history of vacation homes in the greater New York City area How the pandemic affected the economy and housing market in ‘vacation towns' Examples of venture-backed companies transforming the vacation rental industryThe inspiration behind Wilderness DriveThe fundamentals of modern Passive House designTips for incorporating Passive House standards into your home Resources Mentioned: Adventures in the Wilderness by William H. H. Murray Where Was the Birthplace of the American Vacation?Hudson Valley Towns Have a New York City ProblemPacasoDen OutdoorsAvantStay International Passive House Association About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Jenny PeysinConnect with Jenny on LinkedInFollow Jenny Peysin Architecture on

With Zoom school largely a thing of the past, college students are back to living on or near campus again. Between dormitories, apartments, and multifamily homes, there are an estimated 8.5 million student housing beds across the US with an projected increase to 9.2 million this decade. In this episode, I'm unpacking the factors contributing to the boom in student housing and the pros and cons this housing type poses to the surrounding communities. I'm also revisiting a conversation with Nick Falker of Cambridge Realty Partners to discuss The Elm, the firm's multifamily build in New Haven, Connecticut. Designed for Yale students and young professionals, The Elm is a six-story building with studios to four-bedroom options. It features bright, modern colors, a robust fitness center, conference rooms equipped with TVs and projectors, and a roof deck overlooking downtown and the Yale campus. New Haven appeals to many people for its walkability, foodie scene, and relief from overpopulation. Nick dives into who he thought would be the ideal renter for his build versus who currently occupies it, as well as the decisions he made that allow his build to compete with others in the city. Nick and I also discuss how to raise capital when just starting out, estimating renovation costs, and the effect the pandemic had on major US cities. About the Guest:Nick is the managing partner at Cambridge Realty Partners based in New Haven, Connecticut. The firm has been investing and developing in real estate opportunistically since 1978. Over that time, they have focused on office assets in the Northeast US, Texas, Mexico, and most recently, in multifamily in Connecticut. Nick previously worked at Cigna Realty Investors and Bristol Group. Topics Covered:The current state of student housingHow student housing differs from traditional multifamily housing The economic and social impacts student housing can have on surrounding areasThe specs and amenities of The Elm How the renter profile of The Elm has changed since the inception of the project The appeal of New Haven, Connecticut Resources Mentioned: The National Multifamily Housing Council: The Future of U.S. Student Housing Demand About Your Host:Atif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Nick Falker: Connect with Nick on LinkedInFollow Cambridge Realty Partners on LinkedInLearn more about Cambridge Realty PartnersFollow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the

Due to the 1950 Federal Housing Authority and Veterans Administration loan programs, suburbs on Long Island and New Jersey were growing at 10 times the rate of downtown areas in New York City. Levittown in Nassau County is perhaps the most quintessential example of the outcome of those loan programs. Totaling 17,400 homes built on 4,000 acres of potato fields, Levittown was marketed as a safe, peaceful escape from the city. But, like most things that seem too good to be true, there was something nefarious behind-the-scenes: the loan programs had race-based underwriting guidelines and deed covenants that shut out BIPOC communities. Almost 75 years later, the boom of these cul-de-sac neighborhoods are at the root of many of the pressing urban planning issues we face today, including excessive traffic, housing affordability, racial discrimination, and the persistence of poverty. In this conversation with Kenneth Namkung, Founder of Monument Office and Senior Associate at Perkins Eastman, we explore the history of single family developments in the New York City area. We also dive into the details of his Suburbanism installation, designed for 32nd Street leading into Herald Square in Manhattan. The installation focuses on taking up negative space in an urban area and evoking the history and memory of the American suburb for those who previously lived there. Kenneth also discusses his inspiration for the design and reflects on the project as a Korean immigrant who grew up in a suburban area. We also touch on the impact of the American interstate system, redlining, and changes to tax codes in the 1980s, all of which all contributed to the creation of the American suburb we know today. About the Guest:Kenneth is the founder and designer at Monument Office, a research and design firm based in Brooklyn, New York. His work focuses on the interplay between architecture, public space, and memory. Currently, he is a Senior Associate at Perkins Eastman. Previously, he was a Senior Project Designer for NBBJ design and worked at Studio Link-Arc, Ennead Architects, and Santiago Calatrava. He began his career at Rafael Viñoly Architects. He is a graduate of the School of Architecture at MIT and the University of Virginia. Topics Covered:The rise of single family developments in the New York City areaThe major influence of Levittown on housing Kenneth's inspiration for the Suburbanism installation in Herald SquareWho lives in the American suburbs? How suburbs have transformed over timeSpecific architecture types found in the American suburb Effects of the pandemic on suburban housingResources Mentioned: Why Buying a House Today Is So Much Harder Than in 1950 Patrick Sisson Revolutionary Road by Richard YatesAbout Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Kenneth Namkung Connect with Kenneth on LinkedInLearn more about

Public housing is the oldest and one of the largest subsidy programs in the country. However, there hasn't been any significant expansion of public housing spending since 1974 when President Nixon placed a moratorium on that budget. In this episode, I shine a light on the complicated history of government housing and the deep influence it has on segregation and race-related issues in the United States. I also revisit a conversation with Rachel Loeb, former president and CEO of the New York City Economic Development Corporation, an agency that develops housing under the auspices of economic development. We discuss the vision for Bronx Point, a mixed-use development offering housing, community facilities, retail, and outdoor space along the Harlem River waterfront in the South Bronx.Ensuring a diversity of income levels and housing stock, Bronx Point includes 1,000 units of studios, one, two, and three-bedroom options for families, and units set aside for formerly homeless individuals. The surrounding area provides access to The Children's Museum, community colleges, and a food hall that not only offers fresh options to residents, but also gives small food vendors an opportunity to conduct business.In addition to the details of Bronx Point, Rachel and I dive into the importance of diversity and representation, innovation through an equity lens, and the gold standard for waterfront resilience and risk reduction. About the Guest:Rachel Loeb is the former President & CEO of the New York City Economic Development Authority. Prior to her work there, she was the Director of Development at the World-Wide Group and a Senior Director at AvalonBay Communities. She is a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Northwestern University.Topics Covered:The history of government-sponsored housing in New York City How race relates to government-sponsored housingDriving innovation with the help of the government Financing for the Bronx Point project Tangible ways that NYCEDC aims to infuse local culture and history into the Bronx Point projectHow corporations build trust with communities Resources Mentioned: A 'Forgotten History' Of How The U.S. Government Segregated AmericaAbout Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Rachel LoebConnect with Rachel on LinkedInFollow NYCEDC on LinkedInLearn more about NYCEDC Follow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on

In this episode, we're exploring the history of townhouses in New York City and unpacking how this housing type relates to gentrification, a hot-button issue at the intersection of race, class, and housing. We're revisiting a conversation that I had with Lea Cloud, co-founder and partner of CDR Studio Architects, where she walks us through a thoughtful, innovative Bushwick townhouse renovation. Townhouses are single-family, multi-level homes that share walls with other homes on one or both sides and feature an entrance directly to the street. They're most common in New York City neighborhoods like Harlem, Long Island City, and Park Slope, which also happen to be communities at the epicenter of gentrification.Gentrification is the process of changing the character of a neighborhood through the influx of more affluent residents. On the surface, the new neighbors boost the local economy with restaurants, businesses, and housing. But, these upgrades are typically at the cost of longtime residents. This shift sparks feelings of resentment, frustration, and anger about who gets to own what and who gets to call a place home.In our conversation, Lea Cloud and I touch on this issue through the lens of the townhouse renovation her firm designed for a client located in the southeast part of Bushwick. Lea describes how the neighborhood demographics have changed since it was first acquired by the Dutch in the 1600s and has now become a major hub for Central and South American immigrants. Lea and I also discuss the ethos behind passive homes, what it's like to work with multiple firms on a single project, and how to manipulate designs to meet the client's vision while still complying with standard code. Resources Mentioned: Gentrification, Displacement, and Neighborhood Revitalization by J. John Palen & Bruce LondonThe NYC TikTok Influencer to Gentrification Pipeline by Lily Alvarado About the Guest:Lea is a co-founder and partner at CDR studio architects, a full service design firm in New York. Prior to starting the firm, she was at PKSB architects, where she had an opportunity to work on the renovation of the famous Seagram building that was designed by Mies van der Rohe, Philip Johnson, Eli Cohn and Robert Jacobs. Lea serves along with me as a city planning commissioner in Hoboken, New Jersey. She's a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design. Topics Covered:The implications of gentrification How the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn has changed throughout the yearsKey features in the townhouse renovation How to incorporate light and connectivity in a designPositioning stairs in a small spaces About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Lea Cloud Connect with Lea on LinkedInFollow CDR Studio Architects on

Today I sit down with architect and former senior interior designer for Spivak Architects, Camilia Crazut. Camilia and I discuss her Central Park West project located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, the benefits and challenges of projects in a cooperative structure, and the good & bad of client and designer relationships. Located in an upper class residential area, the Central Park West building is a pre-war, 11 storey building in a family-oriented neighborhood. Camilia goes into detail about how the scope of the renovation is centered around its relation to Central Park and how they incorporate millwork throughout the design. This particular project is located inside of a cooperative structure, which brings its own challenges for architects and designers. Camilia talks us through the challenges she faced when renovating in this space, as well as the benefits to working with family-owned vs. commercial residences. Lastly, Camilia discusses how a budget affects the outcome of a project and the importance of designers and clients working together to form a relationship of trust and respect in order to accomplish the goals of each project. Tune in to this episode to learn more about cooperative structures and find out what qualities you should seek in your next designer. About the Guest:Camila is a Visiting Assistant Professor at Pratt Institute and former Senior Interior Designer at Spivak Architects in New York City. Previously, she worked at TPG Architecture and McGinley Design. Her experience as a designer is concentrated in residential and hotel projects, but she has also worked on fascinating public projects like the Islamic Cultural Center near the World Trade Center site. Topics Covered:Camilia's background in architecture and interior designWho makes up the neighborhood of Central Park West An apartment walk through in Central Park West How to renovate inside cooperative structures The qualities of good designers and good clients Renovations on a small budget About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Camilia Crazut: Connect with Camila on LinkedInFollow Spivak Architects on LinkedInLearn more on the Spivak Architects Website Follow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about

On today's podcast, we sit down with Melissa Román Burch to learn more about her project with Lendlease Development, Claremont Hall. Located in the academic acropolis of New York City, Claremont Hall is a mixed-use building with modern neo-gothic architecture and sweeping views of the Hudson River. We also dive into some of Melissa's other developments such as the Atlantic Yards (renamed Pacific Park) and 1 Java Street. Melissa believes that development is about people and to be innovative we have to get curious and question fundamental assumptions. We ask the question of how to expand in a dense urban environment such as New York City and touch on topics of housing access and supply. We also talk about the importance of strategic partnerships with development, equity, and construction firms, as well as technology firms that have a growing interest in housing issues. Lendlease Development partnered with Union Theological Seminary to begin its work on Claremont Hall in June of 2020, right in the early stages of the pandemic. In an attempt to creatively renew the aging infrastructure on the 100-year old campus, Union sought out a developer to help them tap into their New York City air rights. Tune in to today's episode to learn more about unique New York City construction phenomenons and the community-centered partners who are bringing these projects to life. About the Guest:Melissa is a leading property executive and developer in New York with two decades of public company real estate experience. Over her career, she has initiated the entitlement and development of over 10 million square feet of commercial and residential mixed use projects. Those are often ones that are distinguished by urban placemaking, environmental leadership and innovative partnerships. Currently, she is the Chief Operating Officer for the NYC Economic Development Corporation and leads the Real Estate Transaction Services and Asset Management divisions.Topics Covered:Melissa Román Burch's background and the Claremont Hall developmentLessons learned from the Atlantic Yards project Curiosity and the importance of thinking differently in development A descriptive walk through of the Claremont Hall project What are air rights? The importance of community involvement Old and new partnerships About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Melissa Román Burch Connect with Melissa on LinkedInConnect with Lendlease on LinkedInVisit Lendlease's websiteFollow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on

Today we are speaking with the insightful MaryAnne Gilmartin, who discusses her experience getting into the real estate business, incorporating sustainability, and embracing wellness as it relates to creating new developments. MaryAnne is the CEO of MAG Partners and in this episode we dive into her project at 281 West 28th Street in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. The neighborhood of West Chelsea has changed drastically over the years. An area with architecture as diverse as the community that lives there, MaryAnne's development on West 28th Street encompasses the history and diversity of the Upper East Side. Residents can experience an abundance of outdoor space, beautifully detailed brick, light-filled corridors, and an outdoor courtyard that delicately separates the two towers. An increasing desire for biophilic space has led developers such as MaryAnne to incorporate health and wellness into building designs while also considering what it truly takes to build a place that one calls home. Tune in to today's episode to learn more about how a focus on sustainability and sourcing can result in timeless buildings that are a win-win for developers and our world. About the Guest:Maryanne is the founder and CEO of MAG Partners, a real estate development company based in New York City. MAG Partners has one project under construction and was recently announced as the developer for another. She's also actively looking for deals within the metro area and beyond as well. Formerly, she was the board chair and the interim CEO of Mack-Cali Realty Corporation and the President and CEO of Forest City Ratner companies. She is one of the most well known and well respected professionals in the real estate business with 7 million square feet, 2000 housing units, and $4.5 billion of building value created under her leadership. Topics Covered:How MaryAnne got into real estateHistory and characteristics of West Chelsea Identifying the site for a new build The resident's experience of 281 West 28th StreetThe importance of biophilic space in a building Changes in development regarding sustainability About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with MaryAnne GilmartinConnect with MaryAnne on LinkedInConnect with MAG Partners LP on LinkedInLearn more about MAG Partners LPFollow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more...

To kick off Season 3 of American Building, I sit down with Sean Pichon of PGN Architects and Omar Karim of Banneker Ventures. We explore the projects they are working on together in D.C., such as 2220 MLK Avenue, while also diving into topics such as the nationwide housing shortage and home ownership for Black Americans. Sean and Omar go in depth about their project in Historic Anacostia at 2220 MLK Avenue, an update to a local church which adds affordable housing to the neighborhood, and how they are approaching community pushback. We also break down how the residential asset class is defined, housing and lending programs, and how these projects impact communities. Turning to headline news, The New York Times recently released a statistic that only 5% of developers are not white males. This headline drives our conversation as Omar details how he sees this statistic play out, especially when interacting with lenders. Listen to this week's episode of American Building to hear more about DC residential projects, defining impact, and how institutions are distributing money for BIPOC developers. About Sean:Sean is a founding partner at PGN Architects, which was recently acquired by Michael Graves Architecture and Design. The firm's design work focuses on affordable and market rate residential projects and mixed use projects along with renovation and historic preservation. He is a board member at Eastern Market Main Street, an economic development focused nonprofit. He began his career at Skidmore Owings & Merrill and is a graduate of Howard University.About Omar:Omar Karim is the president of Banneker Ventures, a real estate development, construction and property management company. The firm focuses on residential and institutional projects. Omar is a lawyer who began his career at Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel and is a graduate of Howard University.Topics Covered:Details on Sean and Omar's shared projects Challenges when converting commercial properties to residential properties How can BIPOC developers access capital for new projects? Defining impact in the development world Sean's perspective on the lack of housing supply in the DC area About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Connect with Sean PichonConnect with Sean on LinkedInLearn more about Michael Graves Architecture & DesignLearn more about PGN Architects Connect with Omar Karim Connect with Omar on LinkedInConnect with Banneker Ventures on LinkedInLearn more about Banneker...

All good things either evolve or get left behind, that is why I have renamed REDIST to Commonplace. After speaking with over 250 real estate professionals, I found that developers working on affordable and workforce housing projects that support underserved communities often face the most difficulty in accessing funding. Operating at the intersection of brokerage, media and technology, Commonplace is a marketplace that connects real estate developers with capital to build more affordable, sustainable, accessible, and inclusive cities. In short, we're bridging the gap between mission-driven developers and the money they need in order to make an impact. Join me on this episode as I explore the ethos and mission behind Commonplace and what you can expect from us going forward. About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Follow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about Commonplace.us

What does home mean to Americans today, particularly after a pandemic that transformed our society's relationship to the built environment? Over the past three years, we have had to redefine our homes, neighborhoods, towns and cities and restructure our lives as shared spaces became cut off.Now, broad-based issues such as social justice and diversity have come to the forefront of public interest with loud support, and sometimes louder opposition. Housing is where these topics all come together. Sit down with me, Atif Qadir, a licensed architect turned developer, city planning commissioner, and founder of Commonplace, as we dive into intriguing conversations with housing experts who are stewards of change. Sharing a fresh and unique perspective on the current state of the real estate market, we unpack the latest news and topics related to this evolving industry.About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder of Commonplace, a company dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers to more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable development: improving access to capital. Commonplace helps impact-driven developers and capital providers with shared values discover and connect with each other.Follow Us: Grab our exclusive guide: How Eight Developers & Designers Are Responding to the Housing CrisisLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about Commonplace.us

To round out season two, I'm pulling back the curtain and chatting with my producer about the behind-the-scenes of the show. Lauren Popish is the founder of The Wave Podcasting, an agency and recording studio based in Los Angeles that helps people tell their unique stories through podcasting by providing audio editing, educational resources, and a digital community. Lauren is a total pro when it comes to successfully launching and scaling a podcast, which is no easy feat into today's market. We discuss what the top podcasts have in common, the importance of building a community around your show, and her advice for how to finally take the leap and follow through on that podcast idea that you've been thinking about. In the second half of the episode, we turn the tables and Lauren asks me some questions about where the idea for American Building came from, how my goals and priorities for the show have changed over time, and what I have planned for season three. I also share a little bit about my family history and the impact that my parents have had on my career and ability to take calculated risks. About the Guest:Lauren Popish is the founder of The Wave Podcasting, an agency and recording studio based in Los Angeles that helps people tell their unique stories through podcasting by providing audio editing, educational resources, and a digital community. Previously, she worked as a Product Manager at CBRE, Customer Success Manager at Floored, and a Design Strategist at Gensler. She graduated from Arizona State University. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:What ‘pod fading' is and why so many podcasts don't last long term Tools for building your brand and cultivating a listener community The reality about the initial and ongoing costs of podcasting My favorite part about hosting American Building The process that my team and I have for generating episode ideas, booking guests, and conducting interviewsMy advice for anyone who wants to get into the podcasting space About Your Host:“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and Links:Lauren Popish's LinkedInThe Wave Podcasting WebsiteThe Wave Podcasting InstagramGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

I'm joined by Ron Schinik, the CEO of New Blueprint Partners, a New York-based company focused on redeveloping manufacturing facilities into mixed-use assets. Ron has a solid foundation in auditing and grew into the role of CFO at three companies centered around operational efficiency. We discuss why he decided to take the leap from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, and how his background in finance complements his current role as CEO. We get into the details of the Vancouver Innovation Center in Washington State, which is what Ron calls the antithesis of the 1950s and 1960s suburbia movement. Previously owned by Hewlett-Packard, the 180-acre site features 700,000 square feet of ‘Frankensteined' industrial and office space. Ron describes how the team is reimagining the property as a 20-minute neighborhood, which includes apartments, industrial and mixed-use buildings, retail space, and a downtown area. Ron lays out major milestones on the project and gives an overview of the ambitious timeline. He highlights the importance of getting buy-in from the local community by having open, transparent conversations with people on the ground level. Ron also shares what kind of opportunities and challenges industrial manufacturing might face in the near future. About the Guest:Ron Schinik is the CEO of New Blueprint Partners, a New York-based company focused on redeveloping manufacturing facilities into mixed-use assets. Previously he was the Chief Financial Officer at Reich Brothers, Crown Capital, and Quick International Courier. He began his career in audit at EisnerAmper. He is a Certified Public Accountant by training and a graduate of NYU Stern and Queens College. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:How the core ability to make a profit is very different than the ability to make revenueThe vision for what the Vancouver, WA will look like in a few years The roles that Rabina and Google Sidewalk Labs play in the Vancouver Innovation Center project Ron's perspective on how to overcome zoning and community buy-in challenges Trending away from Amazon-like distribution centers and investment in manufacturing sites About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksRon Schinik's LinkedInLearn more about The Vancouver Innovation Center New Blueprint Partners LinkedInNew Blueprint Partners WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDISTLearn more about The American Red Cross

I'm joined by Bo Sundius, the owner of Bunch Design. His latest project, the Stop Making Sense Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), explores how you can make a small space feel big. ADUs are 1,200 square foot houses built on an existing single family home property. The space must include a kitchen, bathroom, and a bedroom. Bo highlights that this format allows for some income flexibility that can really help middle class dreams come true, provide a space to help care for aging parents, and respond to the housing crisis in California. Bo walks us through his firm's typical design process and how they went about designing this specific project. His approach is to think outside of the box, literally and figuratively, and imagine the space from the inside out. Making an 800-to-1,200 square foot home feel expansive and airy isn't necessarily about the construction, but rather cognition. His design includes vaulted ceilings, skylights, and minimal corners. Growing up in a home that was built on land and water, it's no surprise that Bo rejects the idea of cookie cutter houses. We talk about trends of pre-design without prefabrication, his thoughts about the sustainability of venture capital-driven innovation in design and construction, and the reality of 3D printed homes. We also touch on the future of property development in light of historical and recent economic booms and busts. About the Guest:Bo Sundius is the owner of Bunch Design, the Los Angeles-based design firm he founded with his wife Hisako Ichiki. Bunch Design's work crosses product, building and urban scales and has appeared in a wide range of publications, including the Los Angeles Times and Dwell Magazine. Previously, he worked at Jerde and at Roto Architects, both in Los Angeles. He is a graduate of Brown University and Sci-Arc.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:How Bo's unique childhood home changed his perspective on the possibilities of architecture Bo's non-traditional college and career path Background on Bunch Design, the firm that he started with his wifeThe pros and cons of ADUs The ripple effect of living in more adaptive and intuitive spaces Challenges and opportunities in 3D printed homes Ways to create flexibility in single-family homes and work environments About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksBo Sundius' LinkedInBunch Design WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDISTLearn more about the Alzheimer's Foundation of America

I'm joined by Mark Gardner, a Partner at Jaklitsch/Gardner and Professor at the Parsons School of Design. We discuss his work with the Inwood African Burial Ground & Lenape Ceremonial Site, also known as the Inwood Sacred Sites, and how colonization manifests itself in design and architecture across the US. When The Bowery Residents Committee learned the site it planned to purchase had a history as a burial ground for enslaved Africans and as a Lenape Ceremonial Site, their plans for building and operating a high-quality shelter for people experiencing homelessness quickly changed. In our conversation, Mark gives an overview of the geographical history of this site, which is situated as far north as you can go on the island of Manhattan. He highlights key designers and collaborators who are working to capture the culture and contemplative nature of the land. Mark and I also engage in a broader discussion about our experiences as minorities in the US. We talk about the racial bias in real estate and how he responds to people who deny the existence of institutionalized racism. Mark shares why he's so drawn to projects like the Inwood Sacred Sites and how he manages to combine his passion for social justice with his architectural talents. About the Guest:Mark Gardner is a Partner at the New York City based design firm Jaklitsch/Gardner. Mark started his career in architecture at the firms Jeffrey McKean Architect, Murphy Burnham & Buttrick, and Stanley Love-Stanley. Besides his design work, he is a Professor at the Parsons School of Design and previously served as the Director of its Master of Architecture program. He has also been active in community initiatives with SUPERFRONT and the National Association of Minority Architects. Mark is a graduate of the architecture programs at the University of Pennsylvania and Georgia Tech. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:How keeping up with the energy and vitality of Mark's students keeps him sharp as a professional architect The balance between him and his business partner Stephan JaklitschWhere Mark finds design inspiration for the Inwood Sacred Sites project The importance of being thoughtful and acknowledging the past history of the land we inhabit Understanding where the white gaze shows up in architecture and beyond Making meaningful and lasting diversity changes in the real estate development industry About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksMark Gardner's LinkedInJaklitsch/Gardner LinkedInJaklitsch/Gardner WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDISTLearn more about Youth Design Center

Today, I'm joined by the Product Manager at REDIST, Devin McIntyre. Devin grew up in the suburbs of Detroit and has always been inspired by the city. We discuss how Detroit has transformed into a hub for creativity and technology in the past few years, and how the hustle culture of his hometown motivated him to pursue entrepreneurship from a young age.  Before joining the REDIST team, Devin worked for a smaller DTC business, large corporations, and startups. When I asked him how he sees his career panning out, he said that he's interested in early-stage companies and building brands from the ground up. He shares where he sees exciting opportunities within real estate these days and ways that technology can elevate the industry. Listen in to learn more about Devin and his unique perspective on the proptech space.  About the Guest:Devin McIntyre is a Product Manager at REDIST, which is a technology company transforming how developers capitalize their deals, specifically through public incentives. Previously, he worked at CBRE and Coldwell Banker while a student. He graduated from the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business in 2020. While in high school in Michigan, he launched PWRDetroit. For his work, he was featured on MSNBC, Huff Post, among other news outlets.  Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.  Topics Covered:What inspired Devin to launch PWRDetroit as a junior in high school What makes Detroit a particularly unique city Devin's near-term, mid-term, and long-term career goals Common threads through the different job roles Devin's had Devin's responsibilities as a project manager Areas of proptech that Devin wants to pursue further  About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.” Resources and LinksDevin McIntyre's LinkedInREDIST LinkedInGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

Today, I'm joined by Tommy Craig, Senior Managing Director at Hines, and Rick Cook, Founding Partner at COOKFOX. Tommy and Rick are both pioneers of the sustainable architecture movement and have joined forces for the 555 Greenwich and 345 Hudson Street project. As it stands, they're two existing buildings that form an entire block in the Hudson Square neighborhood of Manhattan. The goal for 555 Greenwich was to stitch the two buildings together, complete 345 Hudson Street, and face west out towards the Hudson River. The combined buildings are 1.2 million square feet, and as you can imagine, designing that kind of space isn't without its challenges. However, the team at COOKFOX has come up with a way to embrace those constraints and create a thermally active superstructure, the first of its kind in New York City. Rick describes the firm's various efforts to make radical carbon changes and revamp this 100-year-old building to serve the community for the next 10+ decades. We also discuss the importance of mentorship, how their own mentors have impacted their career development, and what they hope to pass on to the next generation of young architects at their respective firms. We touch on the current trends that are making buildings better for the planet and its occupants, and how to balance the quality and speed of construction. Listen in to hear more of our conversation about sustainable and modern living spaces. About the Guests:Tommy Craig is Senior Managing Director and the Co-Head of the New York office of Hines, as well as Head of the Boston office. Hines is an international developer, investor and manager of real estate with nearly 5,000 employees worldwide. He is on the board of the Urban Design Forum,  and the Phipps Houses, a non-profit affordable housing developer. Previously, he taught at Columbia Business School.Rick Cook is a Founding Partner at COOKFOX, the New York City based design firm he started in 2003 with Bob Fox. Their work focuses on office, residential, interiors and cultural projects and how the natural environment can intertwine with the built environment. Prior to COOKFOX, he founded and ran his own firm, Richard Cook & Associates for 14 years.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:A brief history of the Hudson Square neighborhood of Manhattan What a thermally active superstructure is and how they've achieved it with this project Why it's so crucial to create enticing office environments with this new hybrid work model Understanding the WELL and LEED Certifications The purpose of sustainable architecture at COOKFOXThe sector diversification that has occurred within Heins and the opportunities is provides in the new economy About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksTommy Craig LinkedInHines LinkedInHines WebsiteRick Cook LinkedInCOOKFOX LinkedInCOOKFOX WebsiteCOOKFOX InstagramCOOKFOX FacebookCOOKFOX TwitterHudson Square Properties InstagramHudson Square Properties FacebookGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDISTLearn more about Design For Freedom by Grace Farms

Today, I'm joined by real estate executive Chok Lei to discuss his work with The Cedarview, a multiphase rental apartment development near the University of Connecticut. The 250-unit community is set upon a former nine-hole golf course, and will provide necessary housing for the students, faculty, and permanent residents of the college town. Chok describes how his team is providing a product that the town needs, but also is keeping in-line with the rural, natural character of Northeastern Connecticut. Chok shares how he was influenced to pursue a career in real estate development from a young age一the only issue is that he's seeing the same homebuilding process his grandfather followed. We talk about trends in proptech, which is innovation and use of technology within the property sector, and more broadly, the real estate industry. To Chok, it's more than a buzzword. Proptech is a movement bringing the real estate industry into where it needs to be today, and also where it needs to be going forward, in order to address housing issues that we're seeing across the country. I ask Chok about the exciting opportunities in the development space right now and what he keeps in mind when he's investing in construction tech. He highlights startups in the proptech space that are making waves in the homebuilding space, and shares his predictions for the future of real estate development. About the Guest:Chok Lei is a real estate executive who has served in leadership roles for multiple investment firms, most recent of which is COO at Clear Mountain Capital, a New York City based company that develops real estate and invests in technology that will transform the industry. He is also a professor at Columbia's Graduate School of Architecture, Preservation and Planning. He previously worked at Pretium Partners and began his career at JP Morgan.  Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.  Topics Covered:The organizational and time management skill set that Chok gained from his time working in financial servicesHow the students in Chok's real estate finance course at Columbia University help make him a better investorUtilizing the natural landscape in Storrs to serve specific functions as it relates to land planningWhat opportunity zones are and how to take advantage of them as a real estate developerWhat's currently trending in the proptech space  About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.” Resources and LinksChok Lei's LinkedInClear Mountain Capital LinkedInClear Mountain Capital WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDISTLearn more about Project Destined

Today, I'm joined by the Founding Principal at Creative Urban Alchemy, Ifeoma Ebo. Ifeoma is a Brooklyn native with a background in architecture, urban planning, real estate development, and environmental sustainability. In our conversation, we dive into the details of her latest project, The Perfect New York Street, which is a modern take on the streetscape of Third Avenue between 33rd and 34th Street. She walks us through what people might see, hear and feel when walking through this re-crafted space, and highlights the ripple effect it can have on the local economy and neighborhood safety.  Ifeoma and I discuss the large-scale focus on equity and infrastructure in various global and domestic cities, with a particular focus on New York City. There's a movement towards how we're reconfiguring cities in the public realm to address damaging practices, such as redlining, in city development. Ifeoma has a unique perspective on the intertwined issues of sustainability, criminal justice reform, and housing affordability due to her upbringing between Brooklyn and her mother's village in Nigeria, as well as her studies at Cornell University and MIT.  We talk about the design challenges that cities across the population spectrum are facing to make streets efficient for vehicles, productive for businesses, and accessible for residents. I get Ifeoma's take al fresco dining on city sidewalks and ideas for how that experience can be improved. We also touch on where funding is typically sourced from for urban transformations and the challenges with maintenance and operations in the public realm.  About the Guest:Ifeoma Ebo is the Founding Principal at Creative Urban Alchemy, a NYC-based studio that specializes in strategies and frameworks for design, engagement and spatial planning in the areas of architecture, urban planning, real estate development and environmental sustainability. Ifeoma teaches at the graduate level at Columbia University and Syracuse University, and has taught at Cornell University and the University of Cape Town. She is also active with community initiatives, including with Architecture for Humanity and the BlackSpace Urbanist Collective.  Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.  Topics Covered:The undergrad courses at Cornell that influenced her career path and design styleWhat inspired her to pursue a graduate degree in Urban Design and Planning at MIT The different dynamics and tools of nonprofit, private, government, and academia sectors Why she launched Creative Urban Alchemy initially, and the steps she took to pursue it full-time this yearUndoing generations of disinvestment and weaponization of infrastructureCommon streetscape issuesThe collaborative design effort of The Perfect New York StreetHer ideal profile for the NYC ‘public realm czar'  About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.” Resources and LinksIfeoma Ebo's LinkedInCreative Urban Alchemy LinkedInCreative Urban Alchemy WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDISTLearn more about Black Space Urbanist Collective

Today, I'm joined by senior architectural designer at Michael Graves Architecture & Design, Apoorva Rao. Apoorva shares what originally drew her to the field of architecture and how her passion for her family, Indian-American culture, theology, and philosophy ultimately inspired her thesis. She highlights the coaches and mentors who have helped shape her as a person and designer. She also touches on the role that Indian classical dance plays in her approach to architecture, and her dedication to always work from a place of boldness and courage. About the Guest:Apoorva Rao is a senior architectural designer at Michael Graves Architecture & Design, where she has worked for almost three years. She previously interned at Joshua Zinder Architecture + Design and Gluckman Tang Architects. She also did research at CEMEX, the Mexican construction materials manufacturer. She received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Syracuse University. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Apoorva's path to becoming a senior architectural designer Early exposures to Indian architecture The mantra that has guided Apoorva's career How Apoorva has learned to ask and accept support The importance of understanding a client's challenges and expectations Apoorva's overarching career goals About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksApoorva Rao's LinkedInMichael Graves Architecture & Design LinkedInGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

I'm joined by Ryan Graye, the founder and principal of Eremos, an acoustic design firm based in New York City and Miami. We get into how he got his start in this field, his design experience with major fitness facilities, and his current project with the NOBULL headquarters in Boston. Ryan shares what he learned during his time at Cerami & Associates and how he decided to leave the corporate world to start Eremos. Acoustic design is all about applying the science of sound and vibration to architecture. It's something that a lot of people take for granted, but quickly realize how important it is when a space is poorly designed. One of the most challenging spaces to design and configure are gyms and fitness studios, but Ryan has found a particular niche in that area. NOBULL is a cross-training footwear, apparel, and accessories brand that is setting up shop in the former Boston Globe Headquarters. CrossFit is a major part of their brand identity, so Ryan is in charge of making sure that people can slam 300-pound tires on the ground without disturbing their co-workers in other parts of the building. There's also a rock climbing wall, digital content creation spaces, and a track for walking meetings to consider. Though NOBULL is gearing up to get back into their brand new office, Ryan provides advice for how people can improve the sound of workspaces at home and simple recommendations for limiting noise distraction in small spaces. Listen in to hear more about Ryan's unique perspective on design and learn how to optimize your own space.About the Guest:Ryan Graye is the founder and principal of Eremos, an acoustic design firm based in New York City and Miami. He previously worked at Cerami & Associates, the firm considered to be a pioneer in the field of acoustical design in the United States. He began his career at Lockheed Martin, where he worked as a mechanical engineer. He is a graduate of Vanderbilt and Penn State. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Acoustical needs of a number of different spacesFiguring out your sense of self without a corporate job title The key challenges that come up with acoustic design in the fitness setting Mixing functional office design with a CrossFit gym The space, interior, and material design process The role that acoustic designers play in the construction process Common issues and potential solutions for noisy remote work environments About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksRyan Graye on LinkedInEremos on LinkedInEremos WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDISTLearn more about SAX LLP

Matt Giammanco is a Senior Director of Development at AvalonBay Communities, the real estate investment trust that acquires, develops, redevelops, and manages apartment communities across the nation. He's based in their New Jersey office and is part of the development team focused on north and central New Jersey. In today's episode, Matt brings us behind-the-scenes on the Thanet Circle project in Princeton, New Jersey, and how they're changing the landscape of suburban rental housing. We also discuss more broadly how major developers like AvalonBay choose where to develop, and then how they go about building. Matt started his career in real estate after graduating from Penn State in 2007. Some might consider that unlucky timing with the Great Recession of 2008/2009 just around the corner, but the skills that he developed during that time served him well during the Covid-19 global pandemic. We talk about the different challenges and responsibilities that he experienced as a developer during these last two years, and how rental demands have shifted as a result of the pandemic. A great example of this shift is the AvalonBay Thanet Circle development in Princeton, New Jersey. This 221-unit inclusionary rental project has been an opportunity to resolve the lack of existing rental housing in the affluent town. The variety of units is meant to accommodate multiple demographics across the spectrum that don't typically exist in suburban environments. He shares details of the development strategy, a taste of the finishes and the layouts, and what the financing was like for this project. We finish our conversation by discussing one of my favorite topics: technology in property development. Matt shares how he's incorporating technology to interact with prospective tenants and active residents in his day-to-day life. We also talk about some of the innovative technologies in the development and construction industries that Matt is seeing on AvalonBay job sites.About the Guest:Matt Giammanco is a Senior Director of Development at AvalonBay Communities, the real estate investment trust that acquires, develops, redevelops, and manages apartment communities across the nation. Matt is based in their New Jersey office and is part of the development team focused on north and central New Jersey. He previously worked at Goldman Sachs Real Estate Investment Group, and began his career at Ernst and Young in their Real Estate Transactions Group. He is a graduate of Columbia Business School and Penn State University. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:What Matt learned during his years at Ernst and Young and Goldman Sachs that prepared him for his career in real estate development Creating more rental opportunities in suburban environmentsThe start-to-finish process of a project like Thanet CircleAffordable housing in New Jersey The variety of demographics interested in Thanet Circle Unique tax dynamics of New Jersey How a firm like AvalonBay is structured Developing a hyperlocal focus to stay in tune to trends and opportunities Typical timelines for AvalonBay projects How technology is changing the real estate development space About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksMatt Giammanco's LinkedInAvalonBay Communities LinkedInAvalonBay Communities WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDISTLearn more about Sax LLP

Today, I'm joined by Associate, Senior Project Architect, and Designer with NBBJ, Kenneth Namkung. When he's not working in the NBBJ Healthcare+ Studio, he's running Monument Office, his research and design firm. I invited Kenneth on to discuss Suburbanism, a concept design proposal for a civic installation in the Herald Square area of Manhattan. Kenneth details the inspiration behind Suburbanism and how he came up with the design. He wanted to highlight the transition that many New Yorkers make: growing up in the land of shopping malls and cul-de-sacs, and then moving to the big city for their post-grad career. Kenneth says that he felt inspired by that energy and sought to define the areas around the installation in order to emphasize what was not there anymore. He walks listeners through the installation and explains the research and design process that went into it. We discuss the history of the American suburb and the design language that is commonly associated with it. We get into some of the factors that resulted in the creation of the American suburb, such as the post-WWII endeavor to define the American lifestyle and differentiate it from immigrants living in cities, the growth of commuter rail roads, and redlining. I also ask Kenneth how he thinks towns outside of New York City have benefitted from the exodus due to the pandemic, and what those changes could look like long term. About the Guest:Kenneth Namkung is the founder and designer at Monument Office, a research and design firm based in Brooklyn, New York. He specializes in the interplay between architecture, public space and memory. He is also an Associate, Senior Project Architect, and Designer with NBBJ in the Healthcare+ Studio. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Kenneth's experience of living and studying in Pittsburgh and CharlottesvilleWhat Kenneth learned from working under notable ‘starchitects' His personal cultural connection to the Herald Square area The reasoning behind Kenneth's use of wire mesh and scaffolding How the concept of ‘home' is changing with millennials and Gen ZHow suburbs have changed over time, especially during the pandemic About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksKenneth Namkung LinkedInKenneth Namkung InstagramNBBJ Design LinkedInNBBJ Design WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about Kramer Levin Learn more about REDIST

Today, I'm chatting with another next-gen architectural designer at Michael Graves Architecture and Design, Jack Whalen. We discuss his time as a mentee in the ACE Mentor Program, how his work at dRemodeling in Philadelphia helped prepare him for his role at Michael Graves, and his vision for sustainable architecture. Jack also shares the spectrum of what his days look like and what he enjoys most about working at Michael Graves. He says that one day he might be working on a project locally in Princeton or New York City, and the next he's on a call with clients in Egypt or Qatar. One of the things that excite him most about Michael Graves is that he can make an impact on sustainability efforts and be on the cutting edge of new technology in the field. We discuss possible solutions for making sustainable architecture more readily available and affordable. We also talk about the possibility of phasing sustainable practices into architectural code to update the industry standards and the responsibility that we have in the global north to slow carbon emissions. Listen in to hear more about Jack's journey to becoming an architectural designer and his innovative ideas for making sustainability more mainstream. About the Guest:Jack Whalen is an architectural designer at Michael Graves Architecture and Design. He joined the firm in 2021 after completing his Bachelor of Architecture degree at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. As a student, he ran his own business doing architectural visualizations, and also made models for dRemodeling and Designblendz in Philadelphia. Outside of designing, he worked for the ACE Mentor Program. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.  Topics Covered:What the ACE Mentor Program is and how it has influenced Jack's careerWhy it's important to understand the finance side of architecture, regardless of your role at a firmJack's responsibilities as an architectural designerWhat makes Michael Graves a unique firmJack's recommendations for sustainability improvements in design and constructionMy take on Climate Reparations by David Wallace-Wells for The New Yorker About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.” Resources and LinksJack Whalen's LinkedInMichael Graves Architecture & Design LinkedInMichael Graves Architecture & Design WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about REDIST

Today, I'm joined by the creative director at Gensler, Louis Schump. Louis has spent his career making progress in proving, demonstrating, and advocating for interiors to be on equal footing as exterior design. His design philosophy is rooted in defining problems and creating unique solutions, which is on full display in his work with the Westside Pavilion. The Westside Pavilion is a former shopping mall located in West Los Angeles, California that is being repurposed into an office complex for Google. You might recognize the location from Clueless, but like most shopping centers, it's been on a steady decline since the introduction of the internet. Louis breaks down how both malls and technology companies have changed over time, and what makes the Westside Pavilion project particularly unique. We discuss the challenges and advantages that the space presents, and Louis shares some details about the design vision and finishes. We also talk more broadly about the downfall of malls. I give a brief history on the suburban staple and we chat about some potential solutions: Converting them into senior housing, offices,  or constructing an intermix of industrial, commercial, retail, and residential functions. We round out the conversation by talking about Louis' predictions about the future of brick-and-mortar retail and the role that augmented reality has in that. About the Guest:Though Midwest born and raised, Louis Schump, creative director at Gensler, has spent the last 35 years in San Francisco. Over his career, designing buildings gave way to designing interiors, which was enhanced by furniture and experience design. He has worked at NBBJ, HOK, and Rapt Studio. As a creative director at Gensler, he is responsible for growing the firm's portfolio, cultivating client relationships, and mentoring talent.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Louis' approach to being a designer and creative director How the concept of what a tech company is has changed over time What Louis sees as the problems and solutions with the Westside Pavilion project Louis' desire to create mixed-use environments Where things went wrong for malls Gensler Research Institute design forecasts for retail spaces About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksLouis Schump's LinkedInGensler LinkedInGensler WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Providence BankLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

Today, I'm joined by Head of the New York City office for Lendlease Development, Melissa Román Burch. Melissa is a leading property executive and developer in New York with twenty years of public-company real estate experience. In our conversation, we discuss how growing up in Ohio, attending college in Cambridge, and living her adult life in New York City has shaped her outlook on real estate. We touch on the role of academic institutions as economic generators for the cities in which they're situated and the connection between community and higher education. Melissa shares the three main lessons that she learned from her time on the Pacific Park/ Atlantic Yards project, a massive mixed-use commercial and residential development in Brooklyn. We discuss getting buy-in from the community, learning how to build in a dense urban environment, and understanding the nature of public-private partnership. Melissa's currently working on the Claremont Hall renovation and provides some details on the background, challenges, and opportunities that she's seeing with the project. We get into the New York City phenomenon of air rights and Melissa shares how the team is monetizing 300,000 aerial square feet to weave together the gothic collegiate style into modern living. Melissa also shares the importance of incorporating community feedback and local organizations on development projects, namely through the lens of the 1 Java Street project. Lendlease is transforming a vacant, single-story industrial warehouse into 850 units of housing, 30% of which will be affordable. They are also redeveloping the waterfront into an esplanade that will be open to the public. As property and rental prices skyrocket, housing access is top-of-mind for Lendlease. We round out the conversation by discussing the core purpose of Lendlease and what drew Melissa to join the team. Because Lendlease has construction, development, and investment under one roof, they're set apart from almost every New York City developer. She describes some of the significant carbon reductions that they're making towards their goal to be absolute carbon zero by 2040. A lofty goal, but Melissa believes it's achievable given their resources and dedication to the mission.About the Guest:Melissa is the Head of the New York City office for Lendlease Development where she spearheaded the Sydney-based firms' entry and expansion into the New York market and originated a pipeline of large-scale, ground-up developments for the firm. Before joining Lendlease in 2015, she worked at Forest City Ratner for 12 years, where she oversaw the Pacific Park/Atlantic Yard project featuring the Barclays Center. She started her career at Merrill Lynch. She serves on the board of the Henry Street Settlement, Citizen's Budget Commission, Urban Design Forum, and Coro New York Leadership Center. She is an alumna of Harvard College and Harvard Business School.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:The role of higher education in connecting the many stages of her life Reimaging community as an opportunity for developers Public-private partnerships built to last generations The role that curiosity plays in successful real estate development How Lendlease is really getting involved with the neighborhoods that they're constructing in Melissa's perspective on housing access How to deliver units faster and more cost effectively  Decarbonization in the construction industry About Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksMelissa's LinkedInLendlease LinkedInLendlease WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

Today, I'm joined by Austin Crowley, a design architect at Michael Graves Architecture & Design. We're giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to build your career at such an iconic firm and share our advice for listeners who are looking to break out into the field. Austin joined Michael Graves Architecture & Design in 2016 after finishing his Bachelor of Architecture degree at the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark. From a young age, he was always interested in drawing, nature and music, and was encouraged to channel that into architecture. On today's episode, he shares what drew him to working at Michael Graves Architecture & Design and gives us a peek into what his daily life is like at the office. We also discuss his career aspirations, Michael Graves' legacy and what the future of architecture looks like. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Austin's career path so farWhat Austin loves about architectureHow he knew that Michael Graves Architecture & Design was the right fit for himWhat Austin hopes to accomplish in the career that he has ahead of himMy advice for younger architects, real estate developers and investorsAbout Your Host“Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.”Resources and LinksAustin's LinkedInMichael Graves Architecture & Design WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

I am joined by Ting Chin, founding principal of Linearscape, an award-winning New York City-based design firm. Linearscape was awarded the prestigious 2012 AIA ENYA Award for their submission “Sym'bio'pia” to the Harlem Edge Competition. Known for its unique designs, the firm focuses on connecting the urban environments to architecture, and architecture to landscape. Today we discuss the ways that buildings and landscapes can be integrated effectively and efficiently with thoughtful designs.Ting also shares her experience designing Wild Walk, an interactive nature walk at the Wild Center. Built-in the forest, this project guides visitors into the treetops to offer a new perspective of the forest. It is a seamless integration of nature and the urban landscape, pushing the boundaries of innovative design. Through her designs, practices, and teachings, Ting continues to inspire future architects by cultivating connections between people and place.Join us on this week's episode as we discuss the design process of Wild Walk, how to connect the urban landscape with nature, and her experience as the founding principal of an award-winning interdisciplinary design studio based out of New York City.About the Guest:Ting Chin is a founding principal of Linearscape, an award-winning New York city-based design firm focused on the interplay between landscapes and buildings. She began her career at HOK and TPG Architecture and is an alum of the Harvard Graduate School of Design. As the Co-director of the Bachelor of Architecture program at the New York City College of Technology, she inspires future architects with her teachings and practices that engage in research, exploration, and collaboration.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Ways that buildings and landscapes can be integrated effectively and efficiently with thoughtful designsThe design process of Wild Walk, an interactive nature walk at the Wild CenterHow to push the boundaries of innovative designIntegration of the urban landscape with natureHow can design connect people with their surroundings?About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksTing's LinkedInLinearscape Architecture LinkedInLinearscape Architecture WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

Coby Lefkowitz, the co-founder of Backyard, a real estate development company focusing on infill development in Southern California, joins us to discuss the topic of Accessory Dwelling Units — also known as ADUs. These relatively inexpensive homes can be used to help ease the burden of the current housing market by providing more affordable options. Coby shares with us some of his thoughts on underlying ADU legislation and smaller infill development projects. In today's episode, we also discuss Coby's 3322 Nile Street project in San Diego. Located in the heart of Altadena, the neighborhood features mostly cozy homes with Spanish influence. It is a four-unit property with a contemporary design. We also discuss how projects similar to this one can be an answer to our country's challenge of producing housing that all Americans can afford. Join us on this week's episode of American Building as we discuss the importance of ADUs in addressing the current housing crisis, including some of the challenges and benefits of building smaller detached housing units.About the Guest:Coby Lefkowitz is the co-founder of Backyard, a real estate development company focusing on infill development in Southern California. Previously, he worked with ASH NYC, Washington REIT, and the Runyon Group. Coby was raised in Westchester County, New York, and graduated from the University of Virginia Architecture School with a Bachelor of Urban and Environmental Planning.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a way of addressing the current housing crisisADU legislations and challenges that arise with building smaller housing unitsDesign process of 3322 Nile Street project in San DiegoInfill development in Southern CaliforniaThe impact of unaffordability on designing more resilient housing projectsAbout Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksCoby's Medium Coby's TwitterGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

I am joined by Edwin Harris, AIA, LEED AP, NOMA, Co-Founder and Design Principal at EVOKE Studio Architecture and design firm based in Durham, North Carolina. Today we will discuss the new elementary school that his firm has been focusing on designing for Durham public schools. EVOKE Studio Architecture was selected to design this elementary school, with plans to explore the interwoven relationship between the natural and built environment. As our needs begin changing, so do the buildings we occupy. With COVID and the pandemic, the outdoors has become a lot more important in terms of providing that flexibility and people feeling safer outdoors in terms of air quality. Edwin explains how his firm has been responding to the rapidly evolving needs of the country, including the extreme challenges in getting quality schools built and operating.In today's episode, Edwin shares how his personal life of growing up with his grandfather has informed the way he continues to design and build resilient buildings. Join us as we discuss these topics and much more, including how he plans to help build a school that is diverse, unique, inclusive and responsive to the needs of Americans.About the Guest:Edwin Harris, AIA, LEED AP, NOMA, is the Co-Founder and Design Principal at EVOKE Studio Architecture and design firm based in Durham, North Carolina.  He is also a professor of architecture at NC State University. In the past decade, he has worked with several design firms, including Perkins+Will, The Freelon Group, Inc., and DudaPain Architects. He is also a role model for future designers and encourages them through design dialogues and lectures at NC State University. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Designing a new elementary school for Durham Public SchoolsThe role of mentors in shaping one's career and educationThe extreme challenges in getting quality schools built and operating.How a building is an investment of resources as well as an investment in people.Interwoven relationship between the natural and built environment About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksEdwin Harris LinkedInEVOKE Studios Architecture InstagramFreelon LinkedInFreelon WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

In today's episode, I speak with Andrew Regenstreich, the Director of Real Estate and Economic Development at Housing and Neighborhood Development Services (HANDS). HANDS, Inc. is a developer of affordable housing in New Jersey. They engage stakeholders in community organizations, cultural spaces, and commercial properties to help revitalize spaces. Recently, they have planned the “Gateway Project” at 523 Freeman Street, a new construction project for mixed-use housing in Orange, New Jersey. As an undeveloped lot at the corner of Scotland Road, the “Gateway Project” will provide opportunities for entrepreneurs, open space for public gatherings, showcasing local artists, and moderate-income housing. This project is planned to be a four-story development with nine residential units. It will include 1,479 square feet of ground-floor commercial space, and provide residents with access to the commercial space near the Valley Arts District. The project has received incredible help from the City of Orange along with support from New Jersey Community Capital, DCA, and a partnership with NJ Transit.Join us on today's episode as we discuss the role of affordable housing in shaping a longer-term and comprehensive vision for the future, how COVID-19 has been impacting developments for low-income households, and Andrew's personal experience working at HANDS, Inc. More broadly, we discuss the role that public incentives play in housing production today.About the Guest:Andrew Regenstreich is the Director of Real Estate and Economic Development at Housing and Neighborhood Development Services (HANDS). HANDS, Inc. is a developer of affordable housing in New Jersey. They engage stakeholders in community organizations, cultural spaces, and commercial properties to help revitalize spaces. Previously, Andrew worked at New Jersey Community Capital as the Assistant Director in Real Estate. He is a graduate of NYU and Northeastern. As a student at NYU, he had the opportunity to work at the Massachusetts legislature, the US Senate and the US State Department. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:The role that public incentives play in housing production today“Gateway Project” at 523 Freeman StreetChallenges of building affordable housing, including specific design requirements depending on what financing sources you useHow COVID has impacted long-term development projects in New JerseyWhy do we need to create more affordable housing projects for low-income residents?About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksAndrew's LinkedInHousing and Neighborhood Development Services (HANDS) LinkedInHousing and Neighborhood Development Services (HANDS) WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

In this week's episode, I speak with Nick Falker, the Managing Partner at Cambridge Realty Partners based in New Haven, Connecticut. His firm has been investing and developing in real estate opportunistically since 1978. Beginning in 2015, the company pivoted to focus on the New Haven multifamily residential market. In today's episode we will discuss The Elm, a new construction multi-family building in Downtown New Haven. More broadly, we will also speak about the rise of the second city during COVID and what other cities may learn from it. As we will learn, New York's loss is perhaps New Haven's gain.Located in the heart of Downtown New Haven, The Elm caters to young professionals and Yale affiliates. It is a mix of studios and four-bedroom units with a rooftop deck and an industrial feel. There are some shared workspace areas where people can break off into study groups or work from home in a more comfortable place overlooking the city.Join us on today's episode as we discuss strategies for multifamily development and real estate development, how COVID is changing the game for developers, and popular neighborhoods that have been growing in New Haven. We will be exploring these topics in-depth, including Nick's previous experience working for Cigna Realty Investors in Connecticut and the Bristol Group Inc in California. About the Guest:Nick Falker is the Managing Partner at Cambridge Realty Partners based in New Haven, Connecticut. The firm has been investing and developing in real estate opportunistically since 1978. Since then, they have focused on office assets in the Northeast US, Texas, and Mexico — and most recently in multi-family developments in Connecticut. Previously, Nick worked for Cigna Realty Investors in Connecticut and the Bristol Group Inc in California.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:The largest challenges to starting a real estate company.How COVID is changing the game for developersDevelopment strategy for the construction of the ElmPopular neighbourhoods that have been growing in New HavenStrategies for multifamily development and real estate developmentAbout Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksNick Falker LinkedInCambridge Realty Partners WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

Today I am joined by our guest Alda Ly, the founder and principal of Alda Ly Architecture (ALA), a New York City firm that focuses on interiors with a specialty in tech-driven commercial projects. Join us as we discuss her work across the country for Tia, a women's health network and, in particular, their location in San Francisco. More broadly, we will be talking about the future of commercial design in a post-pandemic world. Alda's firm has designed a new and vibrant space for Tia, a full-service women's healthcare platform creating a women-centric model of care with a blend of in-person and virtual services. It is a place for women to work and to work together, thrive, and build a network. The new San Francisco clinic is located in the mission district near tech giants like Twitter.Join us as we discuss ALA's contribution to designing this space, including moving beyond traditional construction materials and including living elements in design, the future of commercial design in a post-pandemic world, and learning how to create innovative, forward-thinking designs. Listen in as we discuss these topics and much more on today's episode of American Building!About the Guest:Alda Ly is the founder and principal of Alda Ly Architecture, a New York City firm that focuses on interiors with a specialty on tech-driven commercial projects. She previously worked at the design firms, Leong Leong Architecture, HWKN, and Rafael Viñoly Architects — where we actually overlapped for a few months while studying at the Graduate School of Design at Harvard. Alda launched MASS Design Group, a spectacular nonprofit design practice focused on humanitarian work. It has since grown to a team of over 140 architects landscape architects, engineers, designers, writers, filmmakers, and researchers representing 20 countries around the globe. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Future of commercial design in a post-pandemic worldAlda Ly's work across the country for TiaExposure to art and design and particularly what it meansGoing beyond traditional construction materials and including living elementsWhat does it mean to design with empathy?About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksAlda's LinkedInAlda Ly Architecture PLLC LinkedInAlda Ly Architecture PLLC WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

This week, I am joined by our guest Sam Dickinson, principal at Keeler Markwood Group, a Westchester-based development company focused on ground-up and value-add opportunities in the Greater New York area. We discuss the Peekskill Brewery, a major renovation, and redevelopment project that Sam's firm had been working on in the Hudson Valley. More broadly, we will talk about how a good development strategy and design can make the difference between foodservice venues that survive and those that fail to make the cut.Historically, the Peekskill Brewery project was the Myers Brothers Storage warehouse -- a four-story metal and stone building. In 1998, the building was taken by the city for tax evasion and has since been purchased by Keeler Markwood from Tap P Realty Corp. Keeler Markwood Group spent three years looking for an acquisition opportunity in Peekskill. The Brewery was attractive being a beloved business and central hub for those coming up from the city on weekends to go hiking and enjoy nature. Join us on this week's episode as we discuss with Sam his company's development strategy for this particular property, the optimization of location for the Peekskill Brewery project, as well as Sam's advice for new developers on getting projects approved. Listen in as we discuss these topics and much more on today's episode of American Building.About the Guest:Sam Dickinson is a founder and principal at Keeler Markwood Group, a Westchester-based development company focused on ground-up and repositioning opportunities in the Greater New York area. Additionally, he was one of the founding team members and partner at Conatus Capital Management in Greenwich, Connecticut, where besides equity analysis and trade execution, he helped set up the company's risk management framework. Beyond being a commercial real estate developer, Sam started his career as a chartered financial analyst at Goldman Sachs Asset Management from 1999 to 2002. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Advice for new developers on getting projects approvedPeekskill BreweryUp-and-coming locations for redevelopment projectsThe importance of beautiful, interesting historic buildings as assetsCreating social hubs for gathering and meetingAbout Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksSam's LinkedInKeeler Markwood Group LinkedInKeeler Markwood Group WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

I am joined today by our guest Arthi Krishnamoorthy and we discuss topics of the two new Residential Colleges that her team has designed at Princeton University, including strategies she implements to help make university buildings feel more like home for students that are coming from near and far. Additionally, we discuss the topics of how to integrate inside and outside to connect the colleges to the site and to the landscape, how to create designs that transform architectural spaces into homes for students and how she has addressed the impact of COVID-19 while building on-campus housing.The Princeton residential colleges, which Arthi and her firm are currently designing, accommodate an additional 125 students per class along with new social spaces, a dining hall, and servery. The 485,000-square-foot project allows for an overlapping relationship between the indoors and outdoors by creating an “in-between space” that includes several passageways, courtyards and thresholds in the design. Arthi shares with us the specific tools and strategies she uses when building dormitory projects, such as this one.If you are interested in learning more, we will share some of Deborah Berke Partner's most complex projects that connect design-thinking to their missions. Join us today as we discuss Arthi's journey from Southeast Asia to the cornfields of Urbana Champaign to West Philadelphia as well as how she brings to her designs to transform architectural spaces. About the Guest:Arthi Krishnamoorthy has led several projects, including designing spaces for Princeton University and The Women's Building, as a partner at the renowned architectural design firm Deborah Berke Partners, New York City. She has led some of the firm's most complex projects and has built a focus on work for mission-driven organizations — work for universities, cultural institutions, and non-profits — connecting design-thinking to their missions. Through this work, she has developed an expertise in helping groups forge a common purpose and in leading them to discoveries that can shape their evolution. Arthi is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and the University of Pennsylvania. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:How to create designs that transform architectural spaces into homes for studentsBuilding two new Residential Colleges that Arthi's team designed at Princeton UniversityWhat specific tools and strategies should be deployed by architectures when building dormitory projectsAddressing the impact of COVID-19 has had in building on-campus housingHow to integrate inside and outside to connect the colleges to the site and to the landscape  About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksArthi's LinkedInDeborah Perke Partners Contact Deborah Perke Partners WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

In today's episode, I am joined by Paul Lewis, FIAI, Principal at LTL Architects based in New York City. He shares with us his experience of working on projects for universities across the United States, from NYU to the University of Wyoming. Additionally, we learn more about his project working on the Carnegie Mellon University Residence & Academic Hub Project. Recently, he was awarded the prestigious Rome Prize, the Emerging Voices Award and the Young Architects Award. As a 265-bed residence hall, the Carnegie Mellon University Residence & Academic Hub Project aims to improve the quality of student life by providing an open space for social interaction as well as fostering an environment for wellness and play. Paul shares with us his experience working on this project, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. To add to his impressive list of professional experience, he also works with students to develop environmentally sensitive and sustainable projects as the Professor and Associate Dean at Princeton University School of Architecture. In today's episode, we learn more about Paul's experience as a designer and educator, how virtual learning and quarantine measures are shaping the design of student dormitories, as well as the challenge of building a university building off-campus during the COVID-19 pandemic.About the Guest:Paul is a founding partner of the amazing design firm, LTL Architects, and for his work is a winner of the prestigious Rome Prize, the Emerging Voices Award and the Young Architects Award. Besides his work as a designer, he is a professor of architecture at his alma mater, Princeton University, and was recently named an Associate Dean. With the ample free time he has, he also serves as the President of the Architectural League of New York. We will be talking about his Carnegie Mellon University Residence & Academic Hub Project.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Carnegie Mellon University Residence & Academic Hub Project.Addressing “Town and Gown” issues, the expression used to describe the relationship between a university and the surrounding municipalityPaul's experience working as a professor at Princeton's School of ArchitectureHow virtual learning and quarantine measures are shaping the design of student dormitoriesChallenges of building a university building off-campusAbout Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksPaul's LinkedInLTL Architects LinkedInLTL Architects WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

In today's episode, I discuss the topic of sustainability with my guest Lauren Eckhart Smith, the Head of Design at Alagem Capital Group in Beverly Hills, California. I also speak with her about One Beverly Hills, a mixed-use project that includes residential, retail, hotel and both new construction and renovation components. This project, located at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard, is a one-of-a-kind building with the most advanced technologies for health and sustainability. Additionally, I discuss with Lauren how this particular 17.5-acre site is one of the largest projects incorporating sustainable design and architecture in California, far beyond the hand-waving that we see in our industry. She also shares with us her experience working with the City of Beverly Hills as well as her experience working on past jobs, such as designing the IAC Headquarters in New York by Frank Gehry, the Bloomberg LP Headquarters in London by Norman Foster. A new wave of sustainable building designs has emerged - and it's nothing compared to what we have seen in the past. Join us on today's episode if you are interested to learn more as we dive into this topic, including Lauren's personal experience working in the industry. About the Guest:Lauren Eckhart Smith is the Head of Design at Alagem Capital Group in Beverly Hills, California. After beginning her career at Gensler Associates, she spent a large portion of her career working on iconic buildings such as the IAC Headquarters in New York by Frank Gehry, the Bloomberg LP Headquarters in London by Norman Foster. Lauren is currently in charge of the design of One Beverly Hills, a master-planned and unsurpassed development at the gateway to Beverly Hills including 300 luxury residences, retail, a lifestyle members club and eight acres of botanical gardens.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Lauren's experience working with Alagem Capital GroupWhat does sustainable design mean?Lauren's experience working with IAC Headquarters in New York by Frank Gehry, the Bloomberg LP Headquarters in London by Norman FosterOne Beverly Hills projectHow large projects can address sustainability, far beyond the hand-waving that we see in our industry. About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksLauren's LinkedInAlagem Capital Group LinkedInOne Beverly Hills WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

In today's episode, I speak with architect and Founder of Beyond the Built Environment, Pascale Sablan. She shares with us her experience working on the Cleveland Foundation Headquarters as a Senior Associate at S9 ARCHITECTURE in New York. This project, located at the corner of Euclid Avenue and East 66th Street, is meant to be as open, transparent, and inviting as possible to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment. More broadly, we discuss the topic of design justice and how that aims to challenge structural inequalities by centring marginalized individuals in community-led design practices. As Founder of Beyond the Built Environment, Pascale shares her vision of working to dismantle injustices in the built environment and advocating for equitable, reflectively diverse environments.What is the relationship between design, power, and social justice? Join us on today's episode as we discuss incorporating marginalized voices into the built landscape, learning more about the design process behind the Cleveland Foundation Headquarters, and Pascale's personal journey working with S9 ARCHITECTURE. About the Guest:Pascale Sablan graduated from Pratt and pursued a Master of Science in Advanced Architectural Design at Columbia University. During this time, she found her advocate voice by defending her design ideas and implementing holistic design visions for the built environment. She is the 315th African American female architect in the United States to attain my architectural license. She has been awarded the 2018 Pratt Alumni Achievement Award, the NOMA Prize for Excellence in Design and Building Design + Construction 40 Under 40 as well as being featured on the cover of the September 2017 issue. As the recipient of the 2021 Whitney M. Young Jr. Award, she is a champion of women and diverse design professionals. Through her work, she has greatly enhanced the profession and broadened social awareness of the built environment by calling for design justice. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:What is design justice and what does that mean?How to incorporate marginalized voices into the built landscapeThe design process behind the Cleveland Foundation HeadquartersWhat is the relationship between design, power, and social justice?Rethinking design processes, centring people who are normally marginalized by design and using collaborative practices in architectureAbout Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksPascale's LinkedInPascale's InstagramS9 Architecture LinkedInThe Built Environment WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

In today's episode, I speak with architect, activist, and Associate at Adjaye Associates, Pascale Sablan. She shares with us her experience working on the Cleveland Foundation Headquarters as a designer at S9 ARCHITECTURE in New York. This project, located at the corner of Euclid Avenue and East 66th Street, is meant to be as open, transparent, and inviting as possible to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment. More broadly, we discuss the topic of design justice and how that aims to challenge structural inequalities by centering marginalized individuals in community-led design practices. As Founder of Beyond the Built Environment, Pascale shares her vision of working to dismantle injustices in the built environment and advocating for equitable, reflectively diverse environments.What is the relationship between design, power, and social justice? Join us on today's episode as we discuss incorporating marginalized voices into the built landscape, learning more about the design process behind the Cleveland Foundation Headquarters, and Pascale's personal journey working with S9 ARCHITECTURE.About the Guest:Pascale Sablan graduated from Pratt and pursued a Master of Science in Advanced Architectural Design at Columbia University. During this time, she found her advocate voice by defending her design ideas and implementing holistic design visions for the built environment. She is the 315th African American female architect in the United States to attain my architectural license. She has been awarded the 2018 Pratt Alumni Achievement Award, the NOMA Prize for Excellence in Design and Building Design + Construction 40 Under 40 as well as being featured on the cover of the September 2017 issue. As the recipient of the 2021 Whitney M. Young Jr. Award, she is a champion of women and diverse design professionals. Through her work, she has greatly enhanced the profession and broadened social awareness of the built environment by calling for design justice. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:What is design justice and what does that mean?How to incorporate marginalized voices into the built landscapeThe design process behind the Cleveland Foundation HeadquartersWhat is the relationship between design, power, and social justice?Rethinking design processes, centring people who are normally marginalized by design and using collaborative practices in architectureAbout Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksPascale's LinkedInPascale's InstagramS9 Architecture LinkedInThe Built Environment WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

In this week's episode, I met with Lea Cloud who is a co-founder and partner of CDR Studio with Victoria Rospond. She shared with me her experience working on several projects, including working on the Bushwick townhouse in Brooklyn as well as a residential project in Snowmass, Colorado. Prior to co-founding the firm, she gained experience working at PKSB Architects where she was project architect for two New York State University projects, a library addition and renovation at the Fredonia Campus. Lea also shares how she is able to succeed as a designer with a diverse work portfolio. Her expertise has led her to work on multiple projects in Passive House, sustainable design, architectural design, interiors and comprehensive planning. She continues to use this experience in large-scale, complex educational and commercial facilities to implement forward-thinking design solutions. The Bushwick townhouse project in Brooklyn incorporates the concepts of connectivity and openness into its design layout. Lea also shares with us how she rethinks the role of stairs in this architectural design. Join me as we explore these topics and much more in this week's episode of American Building. About the Guest:Lea Cloud is a co-founder and partner at CDR Studio Architects, a full-service design firm in New York. Prior to starting the firm, she was at PKSB Architects, where she had an opportunity to work on the renovation of the famous Seagram Building designed by Mies van Der Rohe, Phillip Johnson, Ely Kahn and Robert Jacobs. Lea serves along with me as a city planning commissioner in Hoboken, New Jersey. She is a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design. We will be talking about her Bushwick townhouse project in Brooklyn and more broadly about how to rethink the role of stairs in architectural design.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered:Lea's experience co-founding CDR Studio Architects with her business partner Victoria RospondHer experience designing projects and working at PKSB How to succeed as a designer with a diverse work portfolioThe idea behind the design of the Bushwick townhouse Lea's experience designing a residential project in Snowmass, Colorado About Your HostAtif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US.Resources and LinksLea Cloud's LinkedInLea Cloud's Company LinkedInCompany WebsiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more on the American Building websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with Atif Qadir on LinkedInLearn more about Michael GravesLearn more about REDIST

Today we will be talking to Clayton Taylor and JR Gideon who are jointly working on the Eastbound project, a new mixed-use development in East Austin. This project is designed for open-air business-ready gatherings on a large scale and incorporates the current trend of destination mixed-use. Additionally, we will be speaking about how real estate professionals are already transforming where we work and how this has changed during the pandemic. Both of our guests have impressive professional portfolios, Clayton is the Founder and Principal at architecture firm West of West based out of Portland Oregon and JR is the Development Associate at Lincoln Property Company in Texas.  The Eastbound project has reflected the growing and shifting center of development projects during the COVID pandemic. During quarantine, disruptions and supply chain shortages have exposed vulnerabilities in the production stages of development. Clayton and Gideon discuss how they were able to overcome these challenges in order to continue moving this project forward. Join us on this week's episode as we learn more about our guests' current projects and examine the impact of COVID on the development of the Eastbound project.   Learn more about Clayton TaylorClayton is a founding partner of West of West, an architectural design firm based in Portland Oregon. As a graduate of UCLA and California Polytechnic State University, he has led multiple creative office projects such as Columbia Square, Crossroads of the World, and The Telephone Building in the Los Angeles area. Clayton is also an NCARB certified architect.   Learn more about JR GideonIn the summer of 2019, JR joined the Lincoln Austin team and currently assists development efforts in the emerging Austin office market. In addition to working with the development team, he analyzes market research and supports leasing efforts. JR is a graduate of UT Austin and worked for an architectural firm on the west coast through the professional residency program in the UT School of Architecture. About your host: Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US. Resources & Links:Learn more about West of WestConnect with Clayton on LinkedInLearn more about the Eastbound projectConnect with JR Gideon on LinkedInGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldFollow us on Instagram.Connect with Atif Qadir on LinkedIn.Learn more about Michael Graves.Learn more about REDIST.

In today's episode, we will be speaking with Peter (Pete) Brosens, the co-founder of Stolar Capital, a real estate investment firm with offices in Hoboken and Philadelphia. Since 2012, the firm's focus has been on developing large mixed-use projects in transit-oriented downtown locations in New Jersey. We will be speaking with Pete about his Chatham on Main project which incorporates the charm of garden-style living into his development plans. Today we will also be discussing the larger topic of the challenges that inevitably come with journeying into the world of real estate and how Pete has leveraged his past experiences at JBG Companies.  The career path to becoming a real estate developer is not a smooth one, it will undoubtedly involve many twists and turns. However, it is possible to set yourself up for success in the early stages of your career as a real estate developer. Join us on this week's episode as we learn more about Pete's journey, including the challenges he had to face and how they have brought him to where he is today. We will be exploring these topics in-depth, including Pete's experience acquiring, rehabilitating, and leasing single-family homes in the Washington Metropolitan area.   Learn more about Peter BrosensPeter is the co-founder of Stolar Capital, a real estate investment firm that blends entrepreneurial, hands-on management with data-driven risk assessment processes. In doing so, they transform underutilized properties into development plans that can withstand short-term market disruptions. Peter's involvement with the firm has led him to overseas business development and management of the acquisition department. He has also raised a $10M specialty-financing fund to focus on investment in repositioning multifamily residential assets across the country. Prior to starting Stolar Capital, Peter worked at the JBG Companies in Washington, DC, where he developed several large commercial buildings. Peter received his BA in Political Science from Columbia University.   About your host: Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US. Resources & Links:Learn more about Stolar CapitalConnect with Peter on LinkedInGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more about the Chatham on Main projectConnect with Stolar Capital on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram.Connect with Atif Qadir on LinkedIn.Learn more about Michael Graves.Learn more about REDIST.

Today we will be speaking with Vishaan Chakrabarti, a licensed architect and the founder of the Practice for Architecture and Urbanism (PAU). His professional portfolio is diverse, expanding from creating a master plan for the surrounding area of Michigan Central Station in Detroit to creating a social housing neighborhood in East New York. In this week's episode, we will be speaking to Vishaan about his latest project for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, originally designed by I.M. Pei. His firm has brought its vision for creating sustainable and equitable designs to this project in order to create more accessible spaces. We will also be discussing how his firm's design will seamlessly integrate with legendary architect I.M. Pei's geometric forms and shimmering glass pyramids.The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located on Lake Erie and has been an essential driver for the local economy. It was no surprise that after securing a plot of land that the institution would immediately start looking towards expansion and renovation. From all across the world, twenty-two leading architects submitted their proposals and eventually, eight were shortlisted. Vishaan's firm was selected as the winning design -- a 50,000-square-foot triangular building made of steel. Join us on this week's episode as we learn more about Vishaan's journey as well as how his firm is dedicated to crafting a careful balance of the cutting edge and the conservative.   Learn more about Vishaan ChakrabartiVishaan Chakrabarti is a licensed architect and the author of two books, A Country of Cities: A Manifesto for an Urban America and NYC 2040: Housing the Next One Million New Yorkers. Previously, he held senior roles at SHoP Architects and New York City Department of City Planning. Vishaan also serves on the board of the Architectural League of New YOrk and the Regional Planning Association. Vishaan lectures internationally and has made several media appearances on CBS, MSNBC and NPR. He holds a Master of Architecture degree from the University of California, Berkeley, a Master of City Planning degree from MIT, and dual bachelor's degrees in art history and engineering from Cornell University. About your host: Atif Qadir is the Founder & CEO of REDIST, a technology company making it easy for commercial real estate professionals to find and use the $100B of real estate incentives given out every year in the US. Resources & Links:Learn more about PAUConnect with Vishaan on LinkedInGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more about the Rock and Roll Hall of FameConnect with Vishaan on his websiteFollow us on Instagram.Connect with Atif Qadir on LinkedIn.Learn more about Michael Graves.Learn more about REDIST.