Podcasts about atif qadir

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Atif Qadir, a luminary in the fields of real estate and urban planning, to explore the intricate dance between development, technology, and the socio-political landscape shaping our cities. Atif offers invaluable advice for those looking to transition from corporate roles to real estate development, emphasizing market knowledge, specialization, and capital access. We also explore the philosophical impacts of consumerism on city planning, the evolving landscape of office spaces, and how global politics intertwine with local real estate markets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the nexus of development, technology, and urban innovation.

Atif Qadir is a serial entrepreneur, but that's not where he started. Trained as an architect and urban planner, Atif decided pretty early on that he wanted to work his way up the ladder, from servicing developers as an architect or builder, to being one!   So he started developing his own small properties, and as his frustrations with finding project financing grew, so did his entrepreneurial ideas.  He launched Commonplace, a fintech platform,  with a mind to create a marketplace for emerging developers and investors.  Dating for development projects. In amongst all of this and in partnership with the Office of Michael Graves, Atif hosts a podcast show called American Building. If you'd like to join me in my quest to rethink real estate, there are two simple things you can do. Share this podcast and go to RethinkRealEstateForGood.co where you can subscribe to be the first to hear about my podcasts, blog posts and other goodies.

Regulators are taking a hard look at acquisitions for Adobe, MIcrosoft, and Amazon. And that might be a good thing for Adobe and Activision shareholders.  (00:21) Emily Flippen and Matt Argersinger discuss: - Why more rate hikes are on the way. - How housing's impact on inflation probably won't slow down any time soon. - Why Activision and Adobe shareholders might not want their company's proposed acquisitions to go through.  (19:11) Deidre Woollard spoke with Atif Qadir, the founder of proptech company Commonplace, about how issues at regional banks affect real estate, and whether empty office space can really be turned into apartments.  (31:16) Emily and Matt break down two ideas on their radar: Spotify and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF. Stocks discussed: ADBE, AMZN, IRBT, MSFT, ATVI, SPOT, SCHD Host: Dylan Lewis Guests: Emily Flippen, Matt Argersinger, Deidre Woolard, Atif Qadir Engineer: Dan Boyd

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...

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

placemakingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook-f Twitter Linkedin Instagram Transforming Public Financing for CRE with Venture-Backed Tech with Atif Qadir, AIA – Ep. 70About the GuestWe can't wait to share this next conversation with all of you. Today on the show we have Atif Z. Qadir, AIA. Atif is the CEO of REDIST, a venture-backed technology company working to transform public financing for commercial real estate. He also produces & hosts “American Building”, the podcast REDIST sponsors with the renowned Michael Graves Architecture & Design and invests in real estate in New Jersey through his company Amanat Properties. He has deep financial, operational and regulatory experience from founding these 3 companies and from his previous work at Extell Development, where he was an Associate on the acquisitions and development teams, and at Turner Construction and at Gwathmey Siegel Kaufman & Associates Architects. Atif is a licensed architect and a LEED-accredited professional. His work has been covered by Commercial Observer and The Real Deal. He is a frequent speaker on the future of real estate and technology on industry podcasts and has appeared at Harvard, Michigan, New School, ULI and Yale. Atif is on the Advisory Board of Provident Bank and on the Boards of nonprofits The Hudson School and the Haven Adolescent Community Respite Center. He also serves as a City Planning Commissioner in the City of Hoboken. He attended MIT, where he received his Bachelor of Science degrees in Architecture and in Urban Planning, and Columbia, where he received his MBA focusing in Finance. In this episode, we learned about the idea of REDIST and how it was transformed into the company it is now. We discussed the inception of the American Building podcast that he hosts. Last, but not least, we discussed how growing up as a minority in the field of Architecture shaped his trajectory! There is tons of great information in this episode! I hope you enjoy!As always, if you have enjoyed the show, please subscribe to the show and share with your friends in the industry. There will be more exciting conversations on the shows to come. So without further ado, let's start the show! Check out Atif's Podcast - American Building To Learn More About Atif Qadir, the American Building Podcast, and REDIST, Check out the Following Websites:LinkedIn - Atif QadirREDIST WebsiteAmerican Building Podcast Website Recommended Reading Section P.S. We spend (a lot) of time, sweat, tears, and money creating each episode of The Placemaking Podcast. We do this without the support of sponsors as we want to keep the advertisements out of the picture and provide an add-free listening experience. YOUR support ensures we can keep delivering these discussions ad-free!If you feel compelled to donate to the show (and receive some cool bonuses...) you can check out my Patron Page. The Weekly Real Estate Development Workshop Receive the latest news Subscribe To Our Weekly Updates Find Us Here Facebook-f Twitter Linkedin-in Youtube The Placemaking Podcast All Rights Reserved © 2020

Today, I sit down with Atif Qadir, from American Buildings. Atif Qadir, AIA  founded REDIST, a proptech startup based at the Columbia Startup Lab, and Amanat Properties, a development company focused on the renovation of historic real estate in New Jersey. He was previously a member of the acquisitions and development teams at Extell Development for real estate deals across the United States and Canada. Atif serves as a city planning commissioner in Hoboken, where he lives. He sits on the boards of The Hudson School, Haven Adolescent Community Respite Center, and En Garde Arts. He received his bachelor's degrees in architecture and in urban planning from MIT and his MBA from Columbia Business School.Episode Spotlights- When should medium-sized companies reach out to Redist - Opportunity for alternative financing tools - Target Markets, Deal Size & Asset classes supported - Atif shares his experience being a City Planning Commissioner - Business plan & exit criteria with investments Reading Recommendation:- Technology Review- Architect- Real Deal- Snow Crash by Neal StephensonConnect with Atif - Email:Grab your freebie - Tips for Multifamily Investing at www.ushacapital.comFound this episode insightful? Show us some love by spreading the word on social media or  rating and reviewing the show here - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/multifamily-ap360/id1522097213Follow Rama on socials!LinkedIn | Meta | Twitter | InstagramConnect to Rama KrishnaE-mail: info@ushacapital.comWebsite: www.ushacapital.com

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

Atif Qadir founded REDIST, a prop-tech startup based at Columbia Startup Lab, in 2020, and Amanat Properties, a development company focusing on the renovation of historic real estate in New Jersey, in 2017. Previously, he was at Extell Development, where he was on the acquisitions and development teams for deals across the United States and Canada. Prior to that, he was at Turner Construction and at Gwathmey Siegel Kaufman & Associates Architects.   [00:01 - 06:34] Opening Segment Get to know Atif Qadir Making financing easier for commercial real estate brokers, developers, and investors   [06:35 - 15:20] Funding Real Estate Deals with Public Financing How the government manages public financing for real estate Three Different Contexts of Syndication Syndications: Where you should begin Speed up and simplify the application process for your deals    [15:21 - 23:23]  The Ultimate Syndication of Tax Credits How Atif and his team syndicate their tax credits Atif shares about his startup and getting into Venture Capital Investors What makes real estate and real estate investors so interesting Real Estate is Not Built on Innovation   [23:24 - 33:16] Closing Segment Quick break for our sponsors Groundfloor offers short-term, high-yield real estate debt investments to the general public. Check www.passivewealthstrategy.com/groundfloor/ to get started. What is the best investment you've ever made other than your education? Investing in himself with a twist Atif's worst investment Higher education What is the most important lesson that you've learned in business and investing? “There is no one out there that is going to be the best cheerleader for you and the dreams that you have other than yourself.” Connect with Atif Qadir through LinkedIn.  Listen to the American Building Podcast, together with REDIST, and join them as they make public financing accessible.   Invest passively in multiple commercial real estate assets such as apartments, self storage, medical facilities, hotels and more through https://www.passivewealthstrategy.com/crowdstreet/ Participate directly in real estate investment loans on a fractional basis. Go to www.passivewealthstrategy.com/groundfloor/ and get ready to invest on your own terms.  Join our Passive Investor Club for access to passive commercial real estate investment opportunities. LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone who wants to explode their business growth by sharing this episode or click here to listen to our previous episodes               Tweetable Quotes: “Being a developer is not just being bad at being a developer, it's also being a janitor. It's also being a babysitter. It's also being the friendly neighbor.” - Atif Qadir “As conservative as real estate investors imagine themselves to be, real estate investors are actually quite cavalier and quite forward-thinking imaginative in what they choose to invest in.” - Atif Qadir “Don't live this conditional life.” - Atif Qadir 

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

Atif Qadir is the co-founder & Chief Executive Officer of REDIST, a venture-backed fintech company focused on real estate incentives. He is also the co-producer and host of “American Building,” a real estate podcast that REDIST sponsors with Michael Graves Architecture & Design. He joins us in this episode to talk about financing real estate deals through public incentives. There are a few public incentives available for investors today. The challenge for them is how to access them and pick the right incentive for their deals.  [00:01 - 02:01] Opening Segment Let's get to know Atif Qadir He talks about his humble beginnings From Bahrain to USA [02:02 - 12:37] Financing Through Public Incentives Atif breaks down the opportunity he saw in his tech business Finance your deals with public incentives Here's how Why getting tax credits is a highly competitive endeavor [12:38 - 22:12] Different Kinds of Tax Credit This is how tax credits work according to Atif The opposite of a tax credit The role of a syndicator in acquiring tax credits What investors should know about historic and new market tax credits [22:13 - 27:30] Final Four Segment A useful tool or resource that you cannot live without Excel and Google Drive A real estate mistake and how to avoid it Buying resources that are not really helpful Don't life, cheat, and steal Your way to make the world a better place Having diversity in the team Reach out to Atif  See links below  Final words Tweetable Quotes “The tax code is one of the most beautiful tools to encourage development, without creating current monetary obligations for government.” - Atif Qadir “There is value in having different ways of communicating. There is value in having different ways of thinking. And there's value in having different ways of behaving.” - Atif Qadir “I think the quality of a business improves when you have different people sharing different perspectives to get to the best end result.” - Atif Qadir   -----------------------------------------------------------------------------   Email atif@redist.us to reach out to DJ or follow him on LinkedIn. Know more about REDIST to claim public incentives you can invest for your real estate properties!   Listen to the American Building Podcast to know how iconic buildings came together from the perspective of their designers and developers.  Connect with me: I love helping others place money outside of traditional investments that both diversify a strategy and provide solid predictable returns.   Facebook LinkedIn   Like, subscribe, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on.  Thank you for tuning in!   Email me → sam@brickeninvestmentgroup.com

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

Special guest Atif Qadir of REDIST joins the podcast to talk about his mission to aggregate and redistribute financial and near-monetary incentives in the real estate development space, the lack of coordination between governmental agencies' data, how he built a team and leverages their superpowers, how his career led to REDIST coming from an architectural background, and more.LinksAtif on LinkedInREDIST websiteREDIST on LinkedInAmerican Building PodcastOK Computer Lecture Series: Autonomous Vehicles (YouTube)More TRXL Podcast episodesCheck out my other podcast too: ArchispeakMy YouTube channelConnect with EvanTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeEmailSponsorEnscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit enscape3d.com/trxl to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

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.

Atif is a licensed architect turned entrepreneur. He founded REDIST, a venture-backed fintech company based in Brooklyn and focused on real estate incentives, and Amanat Properties, a development company focusing on the renovation of historic real estate in New Jersey. Previously, he was at Extell Development and is a graduate of MIT and Columbia.Atif Z. Qadir founded REDIST, a venture-backed fintech company focused on real estate incentives, and Amanat Properties, a development company focusing on the renovation of historic real estate in New Jersey. Previously, he was at Extell Development, where he was an Associate on the acquisitions and development teams for deals across the United States and Canada. Prior to that, he was at Turner Construction and at Gwathmey Siegel Kaufman & Associates Architects. He is a licensed architect and a member of the American Institute of Architects. He also is the host of “American Building” a new podcast he produces with Michael Graves Architecture & Design, and frequently speaks on real estate and entrepreneurship at universities and industry organizations. Atif serves as a city planning commissioner in Hoboken, where he also lives. He is on the boards of The Hudson School and the Haven Adolescent Community Respite Center. Atif received his bachelor's degrees in architecture and in urban planning from MIT and his MBA from Columbia Business School.Join Our Passive Investor NetworkDownload Our Passive Investor Guide to Multifamily SyndicationsWE DISCUSS:His background as a licensed architect.Getting his first development job out of business school.The work that he mostly handled.His transition to becoming a developer.What public incentives are?What Redist does.How they founded Redist.What Redist does for developers and syndicators.Their ideal customer.A practical example of how Redist plays a part in a dealKEY QUOTE:“We gather all the information that is necessary in order to identify what you're eligible for and then choose what you should actually pursue in terms of incentives in order to aid your capitalization on a deal.”CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atifzqadir/CONNECT WITH US! Visit our Website: https://www.canovocapital.com/podcastConnect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apartmentinvestingjourney/?modal=admin_todo_tourFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpmNIzpEzxGn5ZuNgjAVV-w/featuredFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apartmentinvestingjourney/Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/apartment-investing-journey/id1464256464LOVE THE SHOW? PLEASE SUBSCRIBE, RATE, REVIEW & SHARE

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.

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.

Today we will be speaking with Faith Rose, a founding partner of O'Neill Rose Architects, a design firm based in Brooklyn. Her firm builds projects that have distinct physical, cultural, and historical conditions that create rich and meaningful spaces. She shares how her projects use a versatile approach to creating space that reflects and frames her client's aspirations. One such project is Cowboy Heaven, a vacation home project in Big Sky. This Montana-style log cabin is a place for residents to experience resort living that allows them to immerse themselves in outdoor activities. We will also be speaking with Faith about creating alternative ways of living that move beyond the traditional single-family home. There has been a demographic shift underway in the U.S. for decades now that has driven an interest in alternatives to the single-family home. Faith's work on the Cowboy Heaven and other cutting-edge projects are at this forefront, challenging the notion of the traditional family home. In this way, she connects her clients with the experience of the place. Today we will be discussing Faith's journey into architectural design including her experience entering into the public sector of New York City. Join us on this week's episode as we dive into these topics and talk to Faith about her work all over the country.  Learn more about Faith Rose Faith is a founding partner of O'Neill Rose Architects, a design firm based in Brooklyn. She works with her partner Dennis O'Neill to create residential projects in both urban and rural contexts which have been featured in New York Magazine, the Wall Street Journal, and Wallpaper Mag. Previously she served as the Executive Director of the New York City Public Design Commission, under Mayor DeBlasio, and headed the Design Excellence Program at the NYC Department of Design and Construction, under Mayor Bloomberg. Faith also received her Masters of Architecture from Yale University and her Bachelor of Arts from Amherst College. From 2004 to 2014 Faith directed New York City's Design Excellence Program at the Department of Design and Construction under the Bloomberg Administration, overseeing over 200 projects. 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 O'Neill Rose ArchitectsConnect with Faith on LinkedInGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more about the Cowboy Heaven CabinsFollow us on Instagram.Connect with Atif Qadir on LinkedIn.Learn more about Michael Graves.Learn more about REDIST.

On this week's episode, we will be speaking with Johanna Anderson, Executive Director of Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services. We will be speaking about Founder's Way, a major mixed-use project in downtown Ithaca, New York on the site of a former Catholic school. This project was purchased by INHS from the Immaculate Conception School at 320 West Buffalo St. in Ithaca from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester. The property will be redeveloped with the intention to create a mixed-use community that includes space for nonprofit and community-based organizations, and affordable rental housing serving a range of household sizes and income levels. Across the United States, historic and ongoing displacement, exclusion, and segregation have perpetuated racial disparities in real estate. Today we will also be discussing housing affordability as a national crisis across the United States at a broader level, including Johanna's own experience as an affordable housing expert. Join us on this week's episode as we talk about the Founder's Way project as well as Johanna's current work with Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services. Learn more about Johanna AndersonJohanna 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.  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 Founder's Way.Connect with Johanna on her websiteGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldConnect with INHS on LinkedIn.Follow us on Instagram.Connect with Atif Qadir on LinkedIn.

In today's episode, we will be speaking with Yasmin Rehmanjee, partner and Co-Director of the New York office of Buro Happold. She has had two decades of structural engineering design experience, leading large-scale, multidisciplinary projects such as the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Today we will be speaking to Yasmin about the Hudson's Site in downtown Detroit, a 680-foot mixed-use project that will pay homage to the late department store and tallest retail building in the world. We will also be speaking to her about the broader topic of urban redevelopment in cities like Detroit, and how it celebrates the rich history of the Hudson's site. The Hudson's Site is an iconic building that integrates adjacent developments, including the Monroe Blocks and the Shinola Hotel. This site was known as the premier retailer in downtown Detroit in the 1950s and 1960s but sadly had to close its doors twenty years later when business began to decline. It is now being designed by SHoP Architects out of New York and will incorporate more than one million square feet of retail, office, residential units, and public space. Join us on this week's episode as we talk about the Hudon's Site project as well as Yasmin's current design projects. Learn more about Yasmin RehmanjeeYasmin Rehmanjee is a partner and the Co-Director of the New York office of Buro Happold, a pre-eminent engineering firm with offices around the world. She has built an incredible portfolio of completed projects including the Hudson's Site and Mercedes Benz Stadium. Yasmine leads large-scale, multidisciplinary projects including sports and entertainment, commercial development, higher education, and healthcare. As a passionate advocate for equity and diversity, she also works to better reflect the varied cultures, communities, and clients that her firm serves. This has led her to become a mentor and teacher for many of Buro Happold's young engineers. Listen to this week's episode to learn more about Yasmin's personal journey. 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:Connect with Yasmin on LinkedIn.Learn more about Buro Happold.Connect with Yasmin on her website.Grab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldFollow Yasmin on Twitter @YasminRehmanjeeLearn more about the Hudson's Site.

Jon Pickard is a Co-founder and Principal at Pickard Chilton, an award-winning architectural design firm based in Connecticut. We are talking about 2+U (also known as the Qualtrics Tower), the studio's recently completed 690,000-square foot next-generation office complex in the heart of downtown Seattle. 2+U consists of 2 separate towers of 38 stories and 18 stories joined atop a common podium. It has 19,000 square feet of retail and restaurants over 2 floors, as well as an underground parking garage. It tops out at 530 feet, offering stunning views of Elliot Bay. The developer of the project was Skanska USA and the total project budget was $392 million. Learning from the BestBefore Pichard Chilton, Jon Pickard worked at a firm just down the street from his own in Connecticut. Cesar Pelli & Associates was an architect's dream workplace, Jon says. He was mentored by Cesar and learned how to build effective teams, work with world renowned clients, and design with integrity. It was here Jon met his cofounder, William Chilton. Jon credits his time at Cesar Pelli & Associates as the reason he and William were able to build such a successful firm of their own. The reputation of the company allowed them to get in the door with high-profile corporate clients before they had truly made a name for themselves. Years later, Pickard Chilton has grown a client roster that is a Who's Who of corporate America, from ExxonMobil to Uber.  Winning the ProjectIt was both the portfolio of Pickard Chilton and their innovative designs that encouraged Skanska to extend an invitation to a Hackathon for a new office project in downtown Seattle. Through iteration and collaboration, Skanka and Pickard Chilton developed a concept that was as much about the community of Seattle as it was about the design of the tower. This sealed the deal, and Pickard Chilton was confirmed for the project, which would include demolition of Rainier Square Mall, the restoration of Town Hall, and the construction of F5 Tower. Designing a Building for the FutureJon says they approached the project with the future workplace in mind and didn't just follow the office trends of the day. While open office is currently popular with tech companies, (the target tenant demographic in Seattle today,) it was important that they build for other tenants and work styles that might occupy the building in the future. Jon believes building sustainably is more than the materials you use. It is also about building a space that will withstand the test of time. This innovative thinking extended beyond the design to the tools they used to communicate with both Skanska and future tenants. Virtual reality played a major role in showcasing the vision for U + 2 in design presentation and the sales center.  Successful Design Through CollaborationAlthough Pickard Chilton has many “favorite children,” referring to completed projects he is proud of, he says U + 2 was exceptional. The shared vision between his team and the developer, Skanska, gave Jon's team the freedom to design a building that was innovative, human-centric, and community-minded. Jon is proud of the fact that he had very little to do with the success of the project. The credit, he says, goes entirely to the project team, which remained the same from day one. Collaboration, Jon believes, was the key to success. 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:Connect with PickardChilton on Instagram and Twitter.Learn more about PickardChilton on LinkedIn.Contact the PickardChilton on their website.Grab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldFollow us on Instagram.Connect with Atif Qadir on LinkedIn.

This week we will be speaking with Jenny Peysin, a licensed architect based in Brooklyn, NYC, about her current passive house project, Wilderness Drive in the Catskills region of upstate New York. As the founder of Jenny Peysin Architecture, her approach to design is rooted in a modernist philosophy, one that incorporates people with the spaces in which they live and work. She has also become a certified passive house designer and has since shifted her focus towards this way of designing and building. In today's episode, we will be speaking to her about this topic of passive housing, along with how this is changing the current urban landscape in order to reduce our current ecological footprint. Moreover, this conversation will explore the changing policy and shifting structure of our urban landscape that is now enabling more transformation to occur than ever before. Passive houses, which are ultra-efficient dwellings that use a fraction of the energy to heat regular homes, are increasingly seen as a solution to rising greenhouse gas emissions. Today we will speak to Jenny about how her work, including her Wilderness Drive project in Green County, in the Catskills Region of New York, has provided energy-efficient infrastructure and utilities. Join us as we explore this topic and much more, including how Jenny is currently re-shaping the current urban landscape to incorporate more sustainable designs.Learn more about Jenny PeysinJenny Peysin is a licensed architect based in Brooklyn, NYC, who has previously worked with Blaze Makoid Architecture and Iu + Bibliowicz Architects. She is a registered architect in the states of New York and Connecticut and holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University. Jenny also interweaves her love of New York City and its rich history with her work as the founder of Jenny Peysin Architecture. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, she also received her certificate of passive house design and has since been passionate about incorporating sustainability into every level of her projects. Her current focus is on incorporating residential projects and providing client-oriented design solutions that reduce carbon emissions and meet international climate targets.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:Connect with Jenny on Instagram.Learn more about Jenny Peysin Architecture on LinkedIn.Contact the Jenny Peysin Architecture on their website.Grab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldFollow us on Instagram.Connect with Atif Qadir on LinkedIn.

Today we will be speaking with Chris Mazzola, the Director of Development at Bijou Properties and a developer who focuses on residential anchored, mixed-use developments in New Jersey. He has been with the company for seven years and has shaped many of their major projects in the process, from acquisitions all the way to leasing. On today's episode, we will hear more about the 7Seventy House, a new major mixed-use development in Hoboken, New Jersey, and dive into Chris's personal experience working on this development. At a broader level, we will also touch-on the impact of climate change on urban real estate portfolios and how this has led to evident shifts in urban development projects.How can built environments mitigate the effects of environmental hazards? The 7Seventy House has kept this question in mind while undergoing development, its nascent occurring on the heels of Hurricanes Henri and Ida. Chris shares with us how water management infrastructure along with municipal policies can address the broader issue of flooding for waterfront and riverfront cities across New Jersey and New York. Join us on this week's episode as we speak to him about this topic, his personal journey working with Bijou Properties, and how the 7Seventy House is allowing tenants to experience Hoboken living like never before.Learn more about Chris Mazzola Chris Mazzola is the Director of Development at Bijou Properties, which he has been with for the past seven years. Previously, he worked at JP Morgan and Brookfield Properties. Born in Long Island, eventually moving to Hoboken, he is passionate about introducing individuals to residential collections that allow tenants to experience Hoboken living. As the Director of Development for Bijou Properties, he oversees the development of multiple projects, including acquisitions, financing, design and construction, marketing, and leasing.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:Connect with Chris on his website.Learn more about Bijou Properties on LinkedIn.Contact the Bijou Properties team on their website.Grab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldFollow Bijou Properties on Instagram.Check out Chris on LinkedIn

Today we speak with Camila Crazut, an architect and interior designer working as a Project Manager at Spivak Architects in New York City. After training and becoming licensed as an architect in Venezuela, Camila came to the US to extend her training with a degree in interior design. Regardless of the title, Camila identifies as a designer capable of a wide range of creative projects, including the project we focus on today, a Central Park West residential apartment. We discuss the unique challenges of executing a renovation project in today's climate with the increased cost and delayed schedules caused by the pandemic. For young professionals entering the design and architecture field, it might be easy to accept any project that comes through your door. Camila dives into the characteristics that define a “good client” including trust in the designer, openness to new ideas, and a clear idea of the desired end result. She also shares her experience in identifying signs that a client and project might be a bad fit. Camila shares how design thinking transcends a project's budget and can provide a satisfying result regardless of the cost of the furniture and finishes. About Camila CrazutCamila is an architect and interior designer. She currently works as a Project Manager at Spivak Architects in New York City. Previous to joining the firm, 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. Although she now identifies as an interior designer, Camila was trained and is licensed as an architect in Venezuela. In addition to her current project, Camila shares the differences she identified between her education in the US and abroad and how she navigates different perceptions of the title “interior designer”. 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:Connect with Camila on LinkedInLearn more about Camila's projects on her websiteLearn more about Spivak ArchitectsFollow Spivak Architects on InstagramGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldConnect with Host Atif Qadir on LinkedInFollow American Building on  Instagram

Today we will be talking to Rob Menendez, a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. We will be discussing a major intermodal transit hub in Manhattan's Times Square, serving 65M people per year, known as the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Located in the heart of Times Square, this project is not only the nation's largest bus terminal but the busiest in the world. As Rob notes, the current plan for the project's expansion tackles the need to make transit more environmentally friendly in the face of the current climate crisis.In the last 24-hours, New York City has witnessed an unprecedented amount of rainfall with massive flooding overnight in the state as a result of Hurricane Ida. Join us on this week's episode as we speak to Rob about how he plans to tackle the rising concerns of the climate crisis, including what the future may hold for green bus transit. We will also discuss how he plans to coalesce the need for minimizing the harmful effects of carbon emissions with The Port Authority.About Rob MenendezRob Menendez is a lawyer by trade as well as being a counsel at Lowenstein Sandler, where he focuses on investment management clients, particularly early-stage companies. He also does pro-bono work through the Lowenstein Center for Public Interest, particularly in voter rights, and is a board member of the Hudson School in Hoboken. As the son of U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, he grew up in Hudson County and has always had a profound fascination for real estate and public policy. He seeks to incorporate design elements that will improve the experience of individuals by adhering to the latest and best trends of sustainable 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:Connect with Rob on Lowstein Sandler.Learn more about Lowstein Sandler.Connect with The Port Authority on Instagram.Learn more about The Port Authority.Check out The Port Authority on LinkedInGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldConnect with Host Atif Qadir on LinkedInFollow American Building on Instagram

In today's episode, we will be speaking with Alicia Hylton-Daniel who is the founder of Hylton Daniel, a design and construction company in Durham, North Carolina. She is both an interior designer and a general contractor, featuring in the Durham Magazine and the HGTV show Love it or List It, where she shares her portfolio of modernist renovation and new construction projects in greater Durham. Today we will be speaking with her about Modernist 4, a new single-family home project currently in development. We will also touch on how COVID-19 has impacted the real estate market in Durham, including how this tumultuous period has spotlighted social justice and safety amid a backdrop of economic uncertainty. Now, more than ever, buildings are integral for reshaping our social, work, and lifestyle environments. Modernist 4 is one such example, capturing the urban setting whilst emphasizing a sense of privacy and modernity for the homeowner. Alicia's intentionality on this project has allowed her to increase the overall connectivity between people and their environments in the greater Durham area. Join us on this week's episode as we speak to Alicia about her personal journey as well as her plans for her upcoming project, Modernist 4. Learn more about Alicia Hylton-Daniel Alicia Hylton-Daniel began her journey in interior design when a house fire caused by a faulty fireplace at her new Durham home occurred in 2002. That experience completely changed her career trajectory from being a hopeful paralegal to becoming an interior designer and a general contractor. Now she is is the founder of Hylton Daniel, a design and construction company in Durham, North Carolina, and has built a portfolio of over a dozen stunning modernist renovation and new construction projects. Her success is far-reaching; she has graced the pages of Dwell Magazine, has been on the cover of Durham Magazine and has completed two building projects for the HGTV show Love it or List It.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:Connect with Alicia on her website.Learn more about Modernist 4.Connect with Alicia on Instagram.Follow Alicia on Twitter @hylton_designCheck out Alicia on LinkedInGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldConnect with Host Atif Qadir on LinkedInFollow American Building on Instagram

This week we'll be talking to Phillip Gesue, the Chief Development Officer at Strategic Capital, a Jersey City-based development company that is a subsidiary of China Construction America. Previously, he held senior development roles at the Witkoff Group and Time Equities. In this week's episode, we will discuss how a 37 story high-rise, located just steps from the Hudson River, is set to become the city's landmark condominium residence.We will be speaking with him about how he has been involved with the architectural design and development of 75 Park Lane, his career at Strategic Capital, as well as how his team has implemented a number of technologies to increase energy efficiency and reduce the building's waste. We will also discuss the buyer segment of Chinese nationals and Chinese Americans and how that has become intertwined with the macro-level topic of immigration in the greater New York City area. About Phillip GesuePhillip Gesue is an executive vice president at The Witkoff Group, a real estate investment and development company founded by Steven Witkoff, where he oversaw Witkoff's development projects. As a Columbia University graduate of the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation with an MS in Real Estate Development and Bachelor's of Science in Business and Economics from University of Pittsburgh, Phillip is an expert in the field. He is also a board member of New York's Art Omi International Arts Center.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:Connect with Phillip on LinkedInLearn more about 75 Park LaneFollow 75 Park Lane's InstagramLearn more about Strategic CapitalGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldConnect with Host Atif Qadir on LinkedInFollow American Building on Instagram

Title: Developing with Time with Atif Qadir   Atif Qadir, AIA founded REDIST, a prop-tech startup based at the Columbia Startup Lab, and Amanat Properties, a development company focused on renovation of historic real estate in New Jersey. He was previously a member of the acquisitions and development teams at Extell Development for real estate deals across the United States and Canada. Atif serves as a city planning commissioner in Hoboken, where he lives. He sits on the boards of The Hudson School, Haven Adolescent Community Respite Center, and En Garde Arts. He received his bachelor's degrees in architecture and in urban planning from MIT and his MBA from Columbia Business School.   Let's tune in to his story!   [00:01 - 04:47] Opening Segment   Get to know my guest Atif Qadir Architect turned Real Estate Developer   [04:48 - 10:33] Developing With Time   Atif shares his first development project Managing capital and going out on his own Forty-percent Over Seventy-percent Leverage Atif talks about REDIST   [10:34 - 23:29] Transitioning out of Development   Why Atif Shifted Careers Different Areas and Changing Scales Legacy Investments for Fun Purchasing, Renovating, and Renting Out Condominium Units  Risk Management Perspectives   [23:30 - 25:31] Closing Segment   Final words Connect with my guest, Atif in the links below Resources Mentioned   Zillow   Tweetable Quotes   “When you're working in really expensive markets, you have to be able to have low leverage; you'll have to be able to have as few investors as possible.” - Atif Qadir   “No one is a guarantor of the loan.” - Atif Qadir   ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Reach Atif through: atif@redist.us or LinkedIn   Check out his website: https://www.redist.us/   WANT TO LEARN MORE?   Connect with me through LinkedIn   Or send me an email sujata@luxe-cap.com    Visit my website www.luxe-cap.com or my Youtube channel Thanks for tuning in!     If you liked my show, LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe!  

For this episode, we welcome Samer Hanini. Samer is the founder and managing partner of the Hanini Group, a development company with an affiliated architecture firm, Brick Design, and a construction management firm, Hanini Construction. We are talking about the Peoples Bank Building, his recently completed 120,000-square-foot mixed-use building in downtown Passaic, New Jersey. This historic landmark was built in 1931. After standing empty for nearly 30 years, it was completely renovated to include both retail and office. For this project, Samer and his team served as developer and designer as well as construction manager.A Risky Leap into DevelopSamer knew that he wanted to make a name for himself in real estate after graduating from NJIT in 1990, but with a limited budget and even less experience, buying property near New York City was going to be difficult. When a series of historic building shells in Newark New Jersey came up for auction, Samer jumped at the chance. The only problem was he would have to purchase the property without ever setting foot in the building. His brother, Thafer, and a friend scraped together the cash they needed for 10% down and made the purchase. 30 years later, he still points to these early days of trial and error as examples of how his company has worked against the odds to deliver high-quality assets that transform the communities they inhabit.Making the Numbers WorkWorking in cities throughout New Jersey that were once industrial hubs has allowed Hanini Group to build expertise in historic rehabilitations. Samer explains that a critical element to his success has been to get creative about financing by using federal, state, and local tax incentives. The construction costs in New Jersey are similar to those of New York City, but the rental rates are almost a third of what you could get in the city. Cost is the primary reason so many historic buildings in New Jersey sit empty for decades. Taking full advantage of every tax incentive, grant, and government programs is the only way to get the balance sheet of a historical rehabilitation in that area to work, Sameer explains. There is no better example of Hanini Group's creative financing than with The Peoples Bank Building in Passaic New Jersey.Working Around the Challenges of a Historic BuildingThe 12-story Peoples Bank Building was constructed in the depths of the Great Depression. In subsequent years, it bore witness to Passaic's rise as an industrial city. It was and still is the tallest building in the city and can be seen from miles away. Samer saw an opportunity to breathe new life into this historic landmark and the neighborhood surrounding it. After sitting empty for two decades, however, the building had its own challenges. Samer explains that there was ten feet of water in the basement when he purchased the building because it is built on stream. Determining how to keep the historic integrity of the building while making it suitable for modern tenants was also a feat.A New Era of Develop for PassaicFive years later, residents of Passaic once again see the lights of their favorite local landmark shining through the day and night, and the historic clock on the front of the building is operational. Many believe this is essentially the beginning of a new era of development for Passaic. As the largest project in his portfolio, Samer is proud of the community-minded approach he took to the entire building process. Just like his first development in Newark, he now has another example that he can point in the future of just what his passionate team can accomplish with the right combination of clever financial maneuvering and respect for the unique past of every building.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.

For this episode, we welcome Matthias Hollwich, Founder and Partner of the architecture firm HWKN (“Hawk-in”). This episode takes a deep dive into 25 Kent, HWKN's recently completed commercial building on the Williamsburg waterfront in Brooklyn. Totaling 500,000 square feet, the development is divided among office, light manufacturing, and retail. It includes 1.8 acres of open space and, for grateful dog owners, a pop-up puppy spa and camp. The owners of the project are Heritage Equity Partners and Rubenstein Partners.About Matthias HollwichMatthias started his firm in 1999 after working for the world-renowned architect, Rem Koolhaas. He knew before setting out on his own that he would need to take time to understand his individual design point of view instead of simply replicating the style he learned from Rem. He experimented with teaching at ETH in Zurich, founded an architectural tech company at the height of the dot com bubble, and traveled through Europe before moving to the US. Only then did he found his firm, HWKN. Matthias describes HWKN as more than an architecture firm. It is “a collection of design, construction and communication specialists led by an architect and tech entrepreneur”. Particularly in the early days, Matthias knew that he didn't want his work to be defined by one thing. Instead, he used experimentation to take on many different projects, clients, and theories. It was that same sense of curiosity that drew him to Toby Moskovitz of Heritage Equity Partners.Finding the Right Development PartnerWhen Toby Moskovitz called Matthias about the opportunity to design a large project in Brooklyn, HWKN jumped at the chance. It was clear, however, that Toby wasn't the typical development partner. Although she specialized in tech investment out of Israel, she wanted to make a name for herself in New York real estate. She had a vision to create a building that embodied the future of real estate while acknowledging the DNA of the location, in this case, Brooklyn. Together, Matthias and Toby walked the waterfront of Williamsburg, admiring the old warehouses that have come to define the neighborhood. It was the warehouse aesthetic that surfaced as the primary inspiration for 25 Kent after multiple design workshops were completed together.Designing for the FutureThe design of 25 Kent established more than an aesthetic, it created an intent for how the site should and would be used. By breaking away from the typical office dimensions, structure, and materials, Matthias was able to design a site that feels more like a campus where the ideals of collaboration, the collective, and cross-pollination could flourish. This shift in thinking about 25 Kent as an asset for the future means Mattihaus believes it will not suffer from criticism surrounding open office and coworking. He believes 25 Kent can adapt to the needs of workers now and long into the future. It can also easily accommodate uncommon tenants such as Brooklyn Flea and Smorgasburg. This flexibility will make it a site designers and developers admire and draw inspiration from for years to come.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.

This week we'll be talking with Galia Solomonoff, founder and creative director of SAS/Solomona Architecture Studio, in New York City. We will be speaking to her about the Philadelphia Art Alliance, which Galia completed in collaboration with JacobsWyper Architects in 2019. This project preserved and re-imagined a dilapidated building in the heart of Philadelphia and owned by the University of the Arts. Currently, it is a gathering spot for artists to share ideas and redefine the city's urban landscape. It is a profound misconception of our profession that the designs which are often most celebrated are the ones that are the most expensive. Galia shares her opinion on this topic and discloses how art can be made accessible to anyone, regardless of net worth. We will also learn more about the foundations of Galia's architectural journey and explore how she has incorporated this theme of accessibility into her work. About Galia SolomonaGalia Solomona is an award-winning and internationally recognized architect. Galia founded Open Office in 1999 and then SAS in 2004 and has been working in Art and Architecture ever since. Since 2004, the SAS/Solomona Architecture Studio has designed 97 built projects, an incredible number for a firm of six designers. The firm's work ranges from adaptive reuse projects to new construction, and from private townhouses to large museums for art. Beyond this, Galia is a winner of the National Endowment of the Arts grant and has previously worked at Rafael Viñoly Architects.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:Connect with Galia on LinkedInLearn more about SAS/Solomona Architecture StudioConnect with JacobsWyper Architects on LinkedInGrab our exclusive guide Seven Tips on How to Stand Out in Your FieldLearn more about the Philadelphia Art AllianceCheck out Michael Graves Architecture and DesignSubscribe to the Michael Graves Youtube Channel

Today, our guest is Rachel Loeb. Rachel is the President and CEO of the New York City Economic Development Corporation. NYCEDC is a mission-driven non-profit organization that works on behalf of New York City to invest in neighborhoods to address long-standing community needs. We'll chat about the Bronx Point project, which broke ground earlier this year. It features 542 units of affordable housing, creates a new waterfront esplanade, 10,000 square feet of retail, and the Universal Hip Hop Museum. Tune in as we discuss how this project will benefit the community, the importance of diversity in leadership, and the necessity for follow-through when it comes to the value you promise.  About Rachel: Rachel is the President and CEO of the New York City Economic Development Corporation. NYCEDC is a mission-driven non-profit organization. The organization works on behalf of New York City to invest in neighborhoods to address long-standing community needs. EDC drives sustainable infrastructures like affordable housing and open space and oversees initiatives to create jobs and lead innovation to strengthen the City's competitiveness. Rachel served previously as the COO of NYCEDC before being President. Before her public sector career, she worked in senior development roles at The World Wide Group and Avalon Bay.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 mentioned: Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn Learn more about NYC EDCApply for a position with NYC EDCFollow NYC EDC on InstagramConnect with NYC EDC on LinkedInCheck out Michael Graves Architecture and DesignSubscribe to the Michael Graves Youtube Channel

Today, our guest is architect Kirk Mitchell. Kirk is the founder and principal at AKT Designs, an architecture and interior design firm based in Bergen County, New Jersey. We will be talking about 432 Woodland, a spectacular renovation of a single-family home in the Palisades, a stunning cliffside area of northern New Jersey. Listen in as we discuss how the pandemic has impacted residential design, the best ways to narrow down unlimited options while designing with a client, and Kirk's renovation process that focuses on maximizing the value of a home while making sure his client's dreams come true, no matter how eclectic.   About Kirk: Today, our guest is architect Kirk Mitchell. Kirk 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. That includes new construction and renovations of single-family and multi-family buildings. He has particular expertise in combining historic details with modern technology, having completed over 80 townhouse projects as AKT Designs, and previously as the Director of Design & Construction for Dixon Advisory, an Australian investment company focused on metro New York City.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 mentioned: Connect with Kirk on LinkedIn Learn more about AKT DesignsFollow AKT Designs on InstagramConnect with AKT Designs on LinkedInDONATE to the Future Forward for HaitiCheck out Michael Graves Architecture and DesignSubscribe to the Michael Graves Youtube Channel