3Stories’ Post

😍 She's a beauty! We are delighted to announce that HOLD Self Storage has secured committee approval for our site in London, Chiswick W4.*  Many thanks to all at London Borough of Hounslow and the planning committee for recognising this quality scheme and approving it (unanimously!).    This is a big win for HOLD. Anyone involved in large-scale planning applications knows they are a true labour of love. War and Peace meets Operational Real Estate.    Special mention must be given to our excellent team of consultants, architects and designers, led by Tolstoy himself Callum Kempe and the wild-eyed (and haired) support of John Minter. They have worked tirelessly to secure this art deco urban self storage vision with up to 85,000 sq ft of storage space and 4,000 sq ft of creative office space. In particular, we would like to thank our consultancy partners – too numerous to list all, here but to name a few:    Pegasus Group - Barry Cansfield | Kate Simpson | Wei Mo | Richard Cook DMWR Architects Ltd - Jeff Stokes | Kit Cope | Barry Harper-Smith i-Transport - Neil Marshall | David Webb Edge Structures Ltd - Tony Bailey SRE Ltd Adam Tucker | Grace Boatfield Terrapin Peter Bingle | Ian George   3Stories - Helen Gilbert | Jordan Littler Jim Tarzey Warning ⚠: if you see a group of pit-stained people slumped over their pints in Marylebone later this evening, do not approach.   Onwards and upwards! * Subject to S.106 agreement. #selfstorage #realestate #property #planning  

If more communities would be open to affordable and workforce housing options, there wouldn’t be too many market rate and luxury units. I can’t tell you how many times I hear across Illinois. We don’t want any affordable housing. We only want market rate. Yet, the demographics for their communities clearly show that their employers need places for their employees to live and their people are housing burden. If communities don’t know their own demographics, and work to assist their constituents, that’s a problem. It would be great if we could stop economically shaming people, or discount them by the level of their earnings. #affordablehousing

Given the shortage of 55+ units (projected to be 500k by 2030) I think there is an opportunity for condo conversion for apartment projects built 20-25 years ago. Two bedroom units could be apapted to a one bedroom unit that anticipates aging along with updated building systems to create healthy indoor environments. Amenity spaces could also be adapted to incorporate wellness features. The urban location of many properties is ideal and by creating more options for a third chapter demographic, we can free up larger single family homes.

Good to see the Sydney Morning Herald reporting on the proposal for the historic Parcels Post Building at Central Station. There is a case for adaptive re-use (it’s already a hotel), but it is difficult to justify a proposal that demolishes an entire historic elevation of a building which was always designed to be seen in the round (like Sydney’s Lands Department and Education Department buildings - both also on long term leases from the NSW Government and both also being converted into hotels). It is also worth remembering this building is apparently protected by the State Heritage Register. A far less damaging solution should be possible for one of our more important public buildings. https://lnkd.in/gU5ezbJq

How do you ensure the legacy of a historic building is preserved while modernizing it for today’s needs? When it comes to working on historically preserved buildings, every detail matters. Hiring the right contractor is crucial—not just for the quality of the work, but for maintaining the integrity and character of the structure. In New York City, projects involving landmarked properties come with unique challenges, including strict guidelines from the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC). A skilled contractor familiar with these regulations can navigate the complexities, ensuring that every update or restoration is compliant while honoring the building's history. From sourcing period-appropriate materials to employing preservation techniques, the right team can seamlessly merge history and innovation. Getting it right means respecting the past while shaping the future of our city’s architectural heritage. #DoriDoors #Landmark #Preservation #DoorInstall

📢 Save #SmithfieldMarket – Sign the Petition!! https://lnkd.in/eRqrjdmV? 🖋️   The City of London Corporation announced to close #SmithfieldMarket permanently. This 800+ yr old iconic site is not only the largest wholesale meat market in the UK but also one of the largest in Europe. Improvements of the site to engage more visitors and local communities is welcomed (such being the new location of the Museum of London), but to completely close down the site obliterates its rich heritage.   🏙️ Smithfield is one of the last major heritage sites in the Square Mile, as the City increasingly gives way to modern skyscrapers and office spaces. This decision reflects a worrying trend: while the City of London Corporation claims to prioritize #refurbishmentoverdemolition to support #NetZero Goals and vows to cherish the City's millennium-long history, projects are approved with little public consultation, often contradicting the city’s own sustainability and heritage protection commitments.   🔎 A notable example is the recent #LondonWallWest project. Despite independent studies showing that refurbishment would produce significantly lower carbon emissions, the City approved plans to demolish existing structures for new ones. The proposed taller buildings will overshadow and adversely affect nearby Grade I, II, and II* listed landmarks, including the #BarbicanEstate, Ironmonger's Hall, and the historic Church of St. Giles.   This decision poses critical questions about how we balance progress with preserving our rich cultural and architectural heritage -- I hope #realestateprofit is NOT the only consideration going forward.    More details and reporting in the comments. Let’s act now before it’s too late!

Modular buildings can be utilized as temporary or permanent municipal structures, providing swing space during renovations or expansions, and serving as new permanent facilities. Explore a few of the reasons why #government #modular buildings can make a difference, and how they can be utilized—both permanently and temporarily. READ MORE >>> https://lnkd.in/g-b_sVVi #ModularMonday #MunicipalModular #Modularbuilding

As cities grow, their real estate needs evolve. San Diego’s experience with 101 Ash Street shows the complexities of public agency office deals. From hidden asbestos to costly renovations, this case underscores the importance of thorough inspections and historical research. Read More: https://lnkd.in/g_YJrp8g #CityPlanning #RealEstate #JonesAndMayer

If you’re thinking about renovations, speak to the building experts first. Some may warn you about ‘over-capitalising’ – which is code for ‘you’re not going to increase the value of the property by the amount you’re spending’. It’s good advice, although it depends on your intentions for the property. It also pays to speak to an expert about the most effective way to finance renovations – there are lots of options. Let us know if you need a hand. #bacchusmarsh #financialrelationshipmanager #rateone #newhome #westernsuburbsmelbourne #melbournecafe #melbournecoffee #hubandspokeapproach #regionalvictoria