WZMH Architects’ Post

After speaking at the Missing Middle Summit on May 23 and listening the other speakers run through all the phases of the development process for infill housing I was struck by 4 avoidable pain points in the development process. @BlueLionBuilding we do so many of these things in house so listening to so many thoughtful experts discuss their niches of the development process helped awaken me from my dogmatic slumber. Four major things that make sense when you're doing them, but seem wrong with a little perspective: 2 of 4 - Disconnect between what zoning bylaws allow and what missing middle housing can/should be: I'm thrilled to see City Council vote 23-1 in favour of the Major Streets branch of the EHON initiatives and adding an amendment to increase the cap from 30 to 60 units. Thrilled. I'm thrilled to see celebrated Toronto architects undertake research projects to contemplate what 6 storey multiplexes could look like in the middle of neighbourhoods.  I’m thrilled to attend conferences of thoughtful professional contemplating this whole development model. But as far as creating missing middle housing is concerned I think these victories remain more symbolic than effective as a city building tool. The overwhelming majority of everyday lots in this city cannot support a project of that scale without additional minor variances. Maybe those variances are reasonable and awarded with minimal delay or conflict, but like the other EHON initiatives before it, this is not a declaration that Toronto's streets are open to the creation of housing.  I think that only comes with the further opening of zoning bylaws to allow a broad range of housing types to be built without minor variances on most lots, or a radical reconfiguration of the minor variance process to replace the public hearing components with the review and approval of City staff.  Anything less than that is to entrap ‘minor’ variances in a process befitting major zoning changes.

🏢 From Blight to Bright: Success Stories of Birmingham Property Transformations 🏢 Birmingham, once burdened by widespread urban decline, is witnessing a remarkable renaissance. This resurgence is thanks to visionary developers, dedicated municipal leaders, and innovative thinkers who have turned dilapidated buildings into thriving hubs of activity. Here's how they did it: 1. **Strategic Partnerships:** By collaborating with public and private entities, developers have tackled complex challenges collectively. Partnerships have encompassed local government, private investors, and community organizations, each bringing unique insights and resources to the table. 2. **Sustainable Practices:** Emphasizing sustainability, many projects have integrated eco-friendly technologies and materials. The focus on energy efficiency and green spaces not only contributes to a healthier environment but also attracts modern businesses and residents seeking sustainable living options. 3. **Community-Centric Development:** Successful transformations have consistently prioritized the needs and desires of local communities. Projects like the Avondale Brewery and Pizitz Food Hall reflect a keen understanding of Birmingham's cultural identity, fostering a sense of pride among locals and boosting the city's cultural scene. 4. **Economic Revitalization:** Revamping properties has spurred economic growth by creating jobs and attracting new businesses. The influx of workspaces and retail outlets has revitalized neighborhoods, turning once-neglected areas into bustling economic centers. 5. **Heritage Preservation:** Balancing progress with preservation, many projects have maintained the historical integrity of older buildings. Preserving architectural heritage has given Birmingham's urban landscape a unique character, blending the past with the future. Birmingham’s transformation is more than a series of renovations; it's a testament to what strategic vision, community involvement, and sustainable practices can achieve. Each reclaimed property tells a story of resilience, innovation, and a collective commitment to a brighter future. As professionals vested in urban development, let us draw lessons from Birmingham's journey and continually strive to transform blighted spaces into beacons of opportunity. 🔗 [Insert link to detailed article/report] #UrbanRenewal #BirminghamRevival #PropertyTransformation #SustainableDevelopment #CommunityEngagement #EconomicGrowth #HeritagePreservationseriousserious

“Support for denser housing, particularly if it’s forced on councils, gets a lukewarm reception,” Resolve Political Monitor director Jim Reed states in The Sydney Morning Herald this morning, talking to the latest polling. “There’s a general acceptance that we need more supply, but communities want to retain some measure of control over what this looks like and where it goes.” There are three elements here in my eyes: 1. "Measure of control" = genuine community #codesign (not just consultation) that is #placebased and meaningful. 2. "What this looks like" = beautiful design that is guided by existing communities to respect the places they love. Popular, enduring design through council-led #patternbooks, perhaps. 3. "Where it goes" = #strategicplanning, including by #localgovernment building on the extensive plans they've already developed. The community expect us to engage properly with these questions, transcending the simplistic yes vs no debate we seem to have fallen into. Street Level Australia Housing Now! Sydney YIMBY

Alex Ely of Mae has published the latest article in his Architects’ Journal campaign, Architects' Action for Affordable Housing (AA4AH), co-initiated with Luke Tozer of Pitman Tozer. This series proposes strategies for the next government to boost housebuilding across the UK 🏡 ABA fully supports the AA4AH campaign's priorities. We are committed to diversifying housing stock and fostering civic spaces for all residents, regardless of income or social standing. Our collaboration with Brent Council demonstrates how enlightened local authority stewardship can transform London’s 1960s housing estates. In our community consultations, the most vocal plea from existing residents was, “We just want our neighbourhood to be normal.” They meant usable balconies, more beautiful materials, larger windows, better sound insulation, more lifts, improved safety, more playgrounds, and a greater sense of familiarity. We urge the incoming government to implement these five priorities within their first 100 days in office. 🏡#1 Prioritise Affordable Housing to deliver growth. 🏡#2 Link Net Zero and Affordable Housing policies. 🏡#3 Build a resilient, fair and sustainable industry. 🏡#4 Create equity in housing supply. 🏡#5 Empower a self-build and community housing drive Image: Newsletter article titled 'A Moving Experience' from Brent Council, where 84% of residents voted in favour of the ongoing estate regeneration. Link to AA4AH 👉 https://lnkd.in/euMrwQdf #AA4AH #UrbanRenewal #CommunityConsultation #NeighborhoodRevitalization #CivicSpaces #InclusiveDevelopment #SocialHousing

🚀 From Blight to Bright: Success Stories of Birmingham Property Transformations ✨ Birmingham, once synonymous with industrial decline and urban blight, is amidst an inspiring renaissance. As professionals dedicated to urban development, the success stories of Birmingham's property transformations offer invaluable lessons in resilience, innovation, and community engagement. 🔑 Key Takeaways: 1. **Strategic Vision and Planning**: Successful revitalizations commence with a forward-looking master plan. Birmingham exemplifies how a collaborative vision, combining public and private efforts, can pave the way for sustainable growth. 2. **Adaptive Reuse Projects**: Iconic success stories like the transformation of the old Sloss Furnaces into a vibrant arts and music venue underscore the power of adaptive reuse. Repurposing old structures not only preserves historical integrity but also breathes new life into neighborhoods. 3. **Community-Centric Approach**: Engagement with local communities is crucial. Birmingham's initiatives show comprehensive inclusion - where residents' input and cultural heritage shape the developmental blueprint, fostering authenticity and belonging. 4. **Sustainable Practices**: Eco-friendly property transformations are a hallmark of Birmingham's resurgence. From green rooftops to energy-efficient building standards, these projects highlight the importance of sustainability in modern urban renewal. 5. **Economic Impact**: Renewed properties have catalyzed local economies, creating jobs and boosting small businesses. Birmingham’s Parkside District transformation showcases a thriving mixed-use community that has become an economic hub. 👥 Professional Insight: For urban developers, architects, and policymakers, Birmingham's evolving landscape illuminates the critical elements that drive successful property transformations. The city's journey underscores the importance of strategic adaptation, community involvement, and sustainable practices to reinvent urban spaces into thriving districts. As we navigate our own urban development ventures, let Birmingham's example inspire us to turn blighted areas into bright, bustling hubs of activity and culture. #UrbanDevelopment #PropertyTransformation #SustainableBuilding #CommunityEngagement #AdaptiveReuse #EconomicRevitalization #UrbanPlanning #BirminghamSuccessStories --- Feel free to connect and share your own insights or experiences in property transformation. Let's drive meaningful change in our urban landscapes! 🌆seriousserious

Check out the latest Austin Development Updates below and let us know how we can help answer any of your development questions!

Even by my usually hectic standards, January 2024 was an incredibly busy yet successful month. Quite a way to start the year: • Development Review Board approval for Mack Real Estate Group's Mack Industrial Park in the City of Scottsdale. This is the first phase of 125 acres along the Loop 101 at Bell Road; • City of Phoenix City Council approval of a signature mixed-use development for Pivotal Group, Inc. This will be an architectural gem for live, work and play on Central Avenue at Indian School Road; • Phoenix City Council approval for a new, infill apartment community at 36th Street & McDowell Road designed by an award-winning architect on a micro parcel; • Phoenix City Council approval for a unique business park to be developed by Trammell Crow Company. This case was a challenging land use which was initially voted down by Village Planning Committee, but ultimately approved by Planning Commission and the City Council due to strong citizen and staff support; • Village Planning Committee approval for a PUD allowing improvements and signage to the Norterra Shopping Center along I-17 and Happy Valley Road; • Village Planning Committee approval for an innovative apartment community near the airport and light rail at 56th Street & Van Buren for Alliance Residential Company; and • Town of Fountain Hills Town Council approval of a hotly-contested 316-unit apartment building intended to revitalize the Target-anchored shopping center. Quite a month! This isn't including a handful of neighborhood meetings, dozens of lobbying meetings and, oh yeah, a five day follow-up mission to Israel including a visit with the President and a briefing with the Minister for Strategic affairs. More on that trip in a later post! #landuselaw #entitlements #realestatelaw #wins #WitheyMorrisBaugh

📢Exciting Developments in London 🏘️ An ambitious project to build 4,000 new homes at Earls Court in London has just been submitted for planning approval. This initiative, led by The Earls Court Development Company, is set to be a game-changer for housing in the capital, addressing the critical demand for new homes in the area. The work isn't planned to start until 2026 however, it is an exciting project and change to look forward to. One of the most impressive things about this development, is its commitment to sustainability and community. The project isn't just about building homes; it's about creating a living, breathing neighbourhood. With a strong focus on green spaces, pedestrian-friendly streets, and state-of-the-art facilities, this development aims to foster a sense of community and well-being among its future residents. It's heartening to see such a holistic approach to urban development in one of the busiest cities in the world. It is also going to create thousands of jobs within the industry. 👷🚧🏗️ To read more about the project, click the link in the comments below. 🔗⬇️ #London #SustainableLiving #Residential #Construction

British Columbia is entering a new era with transformative zoning laws. 🏘️ The rise of multiplexes: Single-family lots can now transform into multiplexes, blending duplexes, suites, and even townhomes. More homes in the same space! 💼 Ownership & Rental Opportunities: New zoning laws mean a mix of ownership and rental options, including affordable housing contributions from builders. 📐 Design & Space Innovations: With increased floor space ratio (FSR), we're pushing the boundaries on building area per lot, ensuring our neighbourhoods are not just denser, but beautifully designed. 🚗 Reimagined Parking: Progressive steps toward evolving urban transport with no off-street parking mandate for new multiplexes. 🏠 Government Support: BC Housing Minister's legislation aims for 130,000 new homes over the next decade, fostering small-scale, multi-unit housing. RDC Fine Homes is excited to navigate this shift, employing sustainable building techniques and eco-friendly designs to meet the changing needs of our communities. Read our blog post to learn more: https://ow.ly/b7W550QK029 #RDCFineHomes #BCZoningRevolution #EcoFriendlyBuilding #CommunityDevelopment #Construction #CustomHomeBuilder

🚀 Join us for an engaging discussion on creating affordable and sustainable housing opportunities in Philadelphia! Featuring distinguished speakers Kimberly Dowdell and Jamie Gauthier, this event promises valuable insights into addressing our city's housing challenges. 🎤 Kimberly Dowdell, President of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), will share her vision for the Chief Architect initiative and highlight the role of architects in shaping equitable, sustainable communities. As a leading advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion, Kimberly's expertise bridges diverse pillars of society to foster a more collaborative approach to architecture. 🎤 Jamie Gauthier, Philadelphia City Councilmember, will discuss her initiatives like the Built to Last program and strategies to prevent displacement and discrimination against voucher users. With a goal of creating 30,000 housing units, Jamie will delve into funding strategies, comprehensive planning, and the role of transit-oriented development (TOD). 🌟 Learning Objectives: 1- Analyze AIA’s mission and its alignment with Philadelphia's housing challenges. 2 - Evaluate challenges related to housing retention, including taxes, energy burdens, and housing quality. 3 - Explore effective housing solutions from cities like Toronto and Denmark and their applicability to Philadelphia. 4 - Learn about tailored solutions for Philadelphia’s housing issues, including tenant rights support and transit integration. 📅 Don't miss this opportunity to contribute to a proactive, collaborative approach to ensuring housing in Philadelphia is both attainable and sustainable. Together, we can enhance the quality of life for all residents. 📚 Credits: 1.5 AIA LUs (HSW) #JustServicesPHL #AffordableHousing #SustainableHousing #PhiladelphiaHousing #EquityInArchitecture #AIA #JamieGauthier #KimberlyDowdell #CityPlanning #PublicPolicy #Architecture #Housing #Philadelphia Register here!! https://lnkd.in/eADfvnm7