General Projects’ Post

Exciting progress on the Edinburgh Innovation Hub QMU took part in a ‘topping out’ ceremony, marking the completion of the roof and structure of the Edinburgh Innovation Hub, being constructed on land around the campus. The Hub, a joint venture between East Lothian Council and QMU, will be a nationally significant centre for innovation driven business growth. The 7,200 sqm Hub, which received planning permission last September, is expected to be completed next year. It will comprise flexible laboratory, office and fully equipped meeting and conference spaces for rent by small to medium enterprises (SMEs). The Hub will support and grow businesses driven by innovation, knowledge exchange and technology, bringing together research, industry and academia under one roof, creating opportunities for synergies and knowledge-sharing. Tenants will be able to rent flexible accommodation packages for move-in ready space, that is bespoke to their size and needs. Read more about our Hub development at: https://ow.ly/GUu350UqM6T and watch the latest video https://lnkd.in/ertJT-SX to see the development of the site located across from the University.  

Have a look at the latest update on the Edinburgh Innovation Hub - you get a real feel of the scale of the development in the video. #eastlothian #eses #cityregion #economicdevelopment #investineastlothian

A Landmark in the Making: Formerly known as ID Manchester - Sister! 📍 Manchester has always been a city of innovation, and the upcoming Sister development is no exception. With Bruntwood SciTech and The University of Manchester at the helm, the plans for this £1.7bn innovation district are set to transform the cityscape and create something next level. At the core of the project? A flagship office space that could deliver 4,000 jobs to the city, with flexible layouts to suit everyone from global players to up-and-coming scale-ups. Throw in vibrant ground-floor retail and leisure spots, plus a civic square ready to host events and bring people together, and you’ve got a development that feels as dynamic as the city it now calls home. But honestly, what excites me most is the potential ripple effect. This isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about building creativity, connection and growth in a space that brings people and ideas together. The promise of this innovation zone reaching across advanced manufacturing and materials makes it a hub not just for Manchester, but for the future. Sister is one to watch. It’s bold, ambitious, and exactly the kind of project that reaffirms why this city continues to lead the way. I can’t wait to see it take shape, and all the good it will do.

The success of a public space in terms of its vitality, beauty, and meaningfulness can largely be attributed to its integration with capitalist enterprises like shops, cafes, museums, and markets. This symbiosis works because: Firstly, economic activity drives human activity. Capitalist businesses attract foot traffic, which in turn animates public spaces. People are drawn to areas where they can shop, eat, or be entertained, transforming public spaces into bustling hubs of activity. This not only makes the space feel alive and vibrant but also ensures its economic sustainability. Businesses provide the necessary funds for maintenance, security, and events that keep the public space inviting and functional. Secondly, capitalism fosters diversity and choice. A variety of businesses surrounding a public space cater to different tastes, needs, and demographics, ensuring that the space serves a broad audience. This diversity in commercial offerings can create a microcosm of society, where interactions among different groups can occur, enhancing social cohesion and the cultural richness of the space. From an urban design perspective, capitalist enterprises can contribute to the aesthetic appeal of public spaces. Well-designed storefronts, outdoor seating, and the general upkeep driven by business interests can make a public area not only functional but also visually appealing. The interplay between public and private spaces can lead to innovative urban design solutions where architecture and landscape complement each other, creating environments that are both beautiful and practical. Moreover, capitalism can lead to innovation in public space use. Businesses often seek to maximize their appeal, leading to creative uses of space like pop-up markets, art installations, or themed festivals, which add layers of experience and engagement to public spaces. These events can turn ordinary spaces into destinations, enhancing their reputation and drawing in more visitors. Lastly, the self-sustaining nature of public spaces surrounded by capitalist ventures means less reliance on public funds for upkeep. This can lead to better maintained, more responsive public areas that adapt to community needs, as businesses have a direct interest in ensuring the space remains attractive to consumers. In essence, the argument is that the most successful, meaningful, and beautiful public spaces are those where capitalist businesses not only coexist but actively contribute to the dynamism, diversity, and sustainability of the area. This relationship creates a virtuous cycle where both public enjoyment and private profit are maximized, leading to spaces that are cherished by the community.

🚗✨ 𝗪𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗭𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗸𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗹, 𝗮 𝗵𝘂𝗯 𝗼𝗳 𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Zandkasteel Amsterdam | Offices, Meetings, Events & More, the iconic Amsterdam Zuidoost building designed in the 1980s by Alberts and Van Huut as the headquarters for ING bank, has transformed into a dynamic multipurpose space. Now housing co-working facilities, residential spaces, schools, and unique meeting and event venues, the location also boasts over 650 parking spaces, a crucial asset in this vibrant area. We're enhancing the functionality of Zandkasteel’s parking facilities to serve residents, tenants, visitors, and the wider public. The area is a lively hub, home to destinations like Amsterdamse Poort, Johan Cruijff ArenA ⚽, Ziggo Dome, and AFAS Live. 🌟 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗹𝗲-𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 We're elevating the parking experience by introducing camera-enabled entrances and exits, enabling seamless drive-in and drive-out access. Visitors can book their parking spots in advance through the ParkBee app, ensuring convenience and reliability in a busy urban environment. This innovation underscores ParkBee’s commitment to redefine parking as a smooth and efficient experience. 🤝 𝗔 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 This partnership reflects a shared commitment to reimagining real estate and optimising urban spaces. With the support of Re:Invent, Wonam, and Zadelhoff, ParkBee and Zandkasteel are setting a new standard in user-centric parking, transforming urban spaces to meet the demands of a modern, dynamic community, giving space back to the city!

We prefer people and companies that take big swings. @centennialyards not only fits the bill, but goes beyond. 🍻 To those doing it bigger, better, bolder. 📷 by : " Centennial Yards | Downtown ATL on Instagram: "MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT — Many of you have been asking, “What’s next?”.⁠ ⁠ Well, today, we want to tell you…⁠ ⁠ If you’ve been to events at Mercedes Benz Stadium or State Farm Arena, you understand the challenge of finding exciting places within a couple blocks of those venues. The struggle is REAL (and even more frustrating for guests visiting our city).⁠ ⁠ We believe Downtown Atlanta deserves better. ⁠ ⁠ So for the last two years, our team has been crafting a blueprint for the largest entertainment district in the southeast U.S. And we think you’re going to love it.⁠ ⁠ Imagine singing karaoke with your girlfriends, then walking across the street for a Beyonce concert…⁠ ⁠ Imagine watching a Hawks victory, then strolling across the road to a wine bar…⁠ ⁠ Imagine bowling with your family and then walking over to an Atlanta United match…⁠ ⁠ The possibilities are pretty exciting.⁠ ⁠ This new phase will include 470,000 sq. ft. of entertainment, retail, and restaurant space, including a flagship hotel.⁠ ⁠ We partnered with one of the best architecture firms in the world, Gensler, to create a stunning site plan that integrates beautifully with nearby transit (multiple MARTA stations, cycling lanes, and the new BRT line). The district will feature communal spaces & walkways, interwoven with greenery and pedestrian-focused design elements. It will also pay tribute to the site's rich railroad heritage.⁠ ⁠ Of course, Centennial Yards is about more than just big events. This next phase will sit on 8 acres—just 15% of the total 50 acres we’re developing. That means Centennial Yards is where you’ll go for big events, AND it will be home to a thriving community of Atlantans who live there year-round.⁠ ⁠ Our goal is to break ground on this new phase by summer.⁠ ⁠ We’re excited about this big leap at @centennialyards and hope you’ll follow along (more fun announcements in the months ahead)!""

HERE'S MY 2024 LINKEDIN REWIND, BY COAUTHOR: 2024 proved what I've known for 30 years: the spaces between tourist activities matter as much as the activities themselves. Whether becoming an Australian citizen or co-founding the Institute of Neuroarchitecture, this year showed how thoughtfully designed environments transform both individual experiences and entire communities. From theory to impact: • Launched comprehensive 14-part Neuroarchitecture Series • Established Institute of Neuroarchitecture's foundation for 2025 quarterly seminars • Joined The Committee for Brisbane Connectivity Sub-Committee • Advanced evidence-based design standards for Brisbane's future • Earned Australian citizenship, deepening my commitment to Brisbane's transformation Three posts that resonated deeply with our community: "THE TALE OF TWO GAPS" How neuroarchitecture could close Brisbane's $35M daily tourism gap by transforming spaces between attractions https://lnkd.in/ggD3Qree "THE MISSING METRIC IN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT" Why Brisbane could lead global shift in development metrics https://lnkd.in/g4MJ3ubd "AUSTRALIAN CITIZENSHIP ACHIEVEMENT" On earning the right to vote and deepening community connection: https://lnkd.in/gP8RVArB Looking ahead: 2025 launches our quarterly online neuroarchitecture seminar series, and its role in building community starting with ‘mixed-residential development’, followed by ‘aged care/dementia’, ‘retail’ and finally ‘precincts’. As Brisbane prepares for 2032, we're positioned to demonstrate how neuroscience-informed design can transform not just buildings, but human potential. The evidence is clear: when we design spaces that enhance human experience, we create lasting value for communities and developers alike. Brisbane's future depends not just on what we build, but how thoughtfully we build it. #NeuroarchitectureSeries #ShapingExperience #Brisbane2032 #Elevate2042

The Impact Hub Berlin: A Pioneer in Eco-Friendly and Circular Construction Thanks to a social Digiqal project, and together with dear friends, we have been members of Impact Hub Munich since 2017. The Impact Hub Network, with its 110+ locations and 25,000+ members, is a global community committed to social and ecological change. In Germany, Impact Hub is supporting impact entrepreneurs with coworking spaces, incubators and accelerators in various cities. The network offers not just inspiring workspaces but also valuable resources, workshops, and events that equip members with the knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change. The focus is on climate protection, diversity, equality, and inclusion. Yesterday, we finally revisited Impact Hub Berlin and met its founder, Leon Reiner, who, along with his amazing team, hosts and supports a multitude of innovative impact makers in the German capital. The hub’s location on Rollbergstraße is also a shining example of forward-thinking architecture and circular construction. The spaces of Impact Hub were designed to leave a minimal ecological footprint while achieving maximum social impact. This is reflected in the use of recycled materials and products, which make up about 70% of the total building substance. From the red MDF panels and bricks at the reception, sourced from other construction sites, to the wooden slats of the phone booths, assembled from surplus stocks of various carpentries - every element has a story and contributes to the circular economy. The very beautiful and high-quality design of Impact Hub dispels the prejudice that recycled materials lead to an inferior appearance. Instead, the space presents itself in a high-quality and uniform design, redefining the aesthetics of circular construction. Impact Hub Berlin is not just a workplace but also a meeting point for like-minded individuals committed to a sustainable future. With programs like “Climate Tech,” the hub supports impact entrepreneurs and promotes innovations in areas such as the circular economy and sustainable food. For us at Simanek & Partners, Impact Hub Berlin is an inspiring example of how creative solutions and a strong sense of community can shape a more sustainable world. It is also proof that circular building and working is not just a vision for the future but can be a reality today. Many thanks to Leon and his team, as well as to Lea Klein, Amelie Mertin, Johanna Rapp, Johann Schorr, Ulf Walliczek 🇪🇺🇺🇦 🇪🇺🇺🇦 from Munich. #Sustainability #CircularEconomy #Innovation #TransformingRealEstate

More great speakers revealed for CoreNet Symposium 2024!   Thursday 15 August – Q Theatre, Queen Street, Auckland We will run two sessions that showcase the disruptive and powerful thinking of three leading New Zealand intellects on topics of importance to us all: 1. The future of Auckland's mid-town We all know change is coming, and it is sorely needed. So, what is the future that is emerging, and how might it positively disrupt New Zealand’s biggest city?  This session will come at this question from two perspectives: first, how an ecosystem approach built around smart design and smart buildings, combined with revitalisation and inculcation of our cultural heritage, will define our future; then, how an intergenerational perspective is the only way for us to move forwards. Jennifer Miles - Associate Director, RCP - will look at the development of mid-town through an ecosystem lens: the opportunities to preserve and restore green spaces, enhance biodiversity, mimic natural processes, and equitably distribute ecosystem benefits. She will examine how a human-centred approach is key to successful landmark development, looking at how the Symphony Centre Development has incorporated ecological and biomimicry principles into urban design and architectural planning. Graham Tipene – noted Tā Moko artist, consultant and key artist on civic and Council-led projects throughout Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland - will lead a conversation about design thinking from the perspective of someone who never felt so good to not fit in. He will explore mid-town through the concepts of Whangai, Geneology of Circumstance, and growing up in a city that lacked Māori design aesthetic, and how our vision of a future Tāmaki could be. He will dive into why he and others have made it their mission to give Māori design thinking the mana it deserves so it is normalised for a generation he will never meet.   2. Unlocking Aotearoa New Zealand's potential   Kate Horton – Principal | Practice Lead: Strategy22, TwentyTwo - will explore how we might shape our environments based on the insights learned from the habitats that nurture the longest living people on earth. She will cover the workscape as it stands now and why our thinking needs to change; how we can challenge traditional location drivers and propose a new set of location drivers that are centred on people and communities, and explore what a lasting legacy for our communities looks like.   Visit the symposium website to find out more about our speakers and sessions, as well as to register for Early bird tickets: https://lnkd.in/g4ixM6Sd Early bird tickets are now available for sale – so buy your tickets early – this year is definitely going to sell out… Register here: https://lnkd.in/gcnMtV9k Thanks to the many people making this great event happen: David Maurice, Anthony Flannery, Hana Faamalepe, Asha Lal, Michael Leng, Gail Calder, Michael Holloway, George Hulbert and many more!

Look at that inviting city space. You might think it's some historical neighborhood in Amsterdam, but no. It was founded in 1997! Brandevoort is an alternative vision for a "city of the future", standing in stark contrast to asinine techbro ego trips like NEOM, Sidewalk, or Dubai, and their equally asinine midcentury ancestors, the modernist abominations concocted by nutjobs like Le Corbusier. Where those concepts intend to subvert the natural human condition, and force man into an artificial existence, mediated by technology or centralized bureaucracies, Brandevoort is an old-school city, built on the human scale. It is designed to accommodate modernities like cars and electricity, but the spatial relationships are drawn from the pre-industrial era, and the architectural forms are classical, humanist, and free of the postmodernist conceit that blights other planed cities. Unsurprisingly, where the techbrotopias have all failed, Brandevoort is thriving. People want to live there. The quality of life is outstanding. In short, it just WORKS. But Brandevoort is not without detractors, ie elitist weirdos who can't comprehend why a city would be so... traditional. How dare people prefer a traditional lifestyle? Why don't they want to live somewhere where every building looks like a modern art project making a statement about how humans suck? Why don't they want to be tracked and quantified? Why don't they realize WE KNOW WHAT IS BEST FOR THEM? Sound familiar? This is exactly what is happening with technology today. People are rejecting the digital version of these "future" cities: the tangle of enshittified tech platforms that claims ownership of our technology, control of our creations, our individuality but also our relationship to others. It turns out people want to own the devices they buy. They want to play an active role in producing art. They want to choose the media they consume. They want to keep their private life private. And they want to have a sense of community, not belong to some mindless global hive. WHO COULD HAVE GUESSED? Brandevoort isn't a return to the past. It is a return to timelessness. It preserves only the things that have aged well, and doesn't try to fix what isn't broken. Similarly, the rejection of techbro culture isn't a rejection of technology. It's a call to pretend the 2010s never happened. That we need to ask ourselves "where could we have taken technology in 2007 had we known where we'd end up in 2024?" Imagine how much better the world would be if the computing power available to us today were put to better use. Imagine if AI were used to make 3D renderers or MIDI sequencers easier to use rather than skipping the creative process. Imagine if we had digital concierge that gave us the information we need to decide what to buy or watch rather than spoonfeeding us with some POS algorithm. Imagine if we could customize our experience. Imagine if we still had physical buttons. Now stop imaging and start doing.