In the 2011 book The High Cost of Free Parking Professor Donald Shoup thoughfully walks the reader through the history of parking in the United States into the present situation in which we find ourselves. Everyone wants a free parking space; but as Professor Shoup explains, there is no such thing as a ‘free" parking
Just Add Water
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycVkJRy1b44
Recently, at a conference in Santiago, Chile, I had the opportunity to meet Fernado Fishmann, founder of Crystal Lagoons, and to learn about how Crystal Lagoons is transforming real estate projects around the globe. The concept came to Mr. Fishmann, a biologist turned real estate developer, when trying to come up with a solution to turn
Real Estate Industry Trends for 2013
With the first quarter coming to an end we have gathered a short list of what we believe are the Real Estate Industry Trends for 2013. Let us know if you agree, disagree or see other issues which we missed. Our list is not in any particular order and not intended to be comprehensive, just provocative.
Small Really is the New BIG !
Small fuel effiecient cars are nothing new. In fact many of the major car manufacturers are now offering a variety of options which achieve 40+ miles per gallon. However, what we have not seen until now is a highly fuel efficient car which is highly affordable. Introducing the Elio to be produced in Louisiana by
Cincinnati Central Business District
There has been much written of late about how Central Business Districts (CBDs) are the key to regional economic health, growth and sustainability. We have written in the past about new urbanism concepts and concerns such as walkability and density. We have also written about the benefits of practical public transportation. As I walk through the
Put That Unproductive Space to Use !
Take a look at how the Korean’s are putting previously unproductive space to use and combining internet sales with brick and mortar real estate. Good idea huh !
“Pocket Neighborhoods”: A Concept Worth Consideration
Architect Ross Chapin, who has spent his career championing the "pocket neighborhood" concept has proven that "walkability" and "new urbanism" concepts which are successful in the Northwestcan be successful in the Midwest. TheInglenook community development in Carmel, Indiana is proof that "pocket neighborhoods" can be successful anywhere. We particularly like the concept
Smart Buildings Done Easy !
Take an old technology which has not seen any real updates in decades, make it internet connected and add a few semiconductors (to make it smart) and radically change the way offices and homes consume energy ! That is what the Nest Learning Thermostat promises to do. See the video below.
Modular Construction
Has modular construction finally come of age ? The Modular Building Institute thinks so. Modular construction is no longer just for preparation of walls and roof joists. Today, contractors are using prefabrication and preassembly in construction of steel framed structures, multi-story structures, health care and education facilities. The benefits of modular construction positively affects:
New Word: “De-Malling”
In the late 1960’s and 1970’s the retail industry clustered under a common roof in controlled 72 degree conditions. As consumer tastes changed and populations shifts, the "life-style" center became the next new thing. The problem being addressed today is what do we do with all of the covered malls around the country ? One