[1016]: Architecture + Real Estate[1016] Architecture is ready. Are you? Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then: Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
This month's AIA Architectural Billing Index, which measures month-over-month billings as reported by architecture firms, indicated an uptick in billings for the first time in two years. The black line in the graph below represents the billings ($$) indicator.
The ABI is generally considered to be a leading indicator of construction activity, which is clearly a major component of the economy. One month clearly does not make a trend, but apparently the industry is in better shape than since early 2008.
[1016]: Architecture + Real Estate[1016] Architecture is ready. Are you? Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then: Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate? To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click here To search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here(powered by ListingBook)
If you are considering a design and/or construction project, you should understand the complexities that come with protecting your interests (in writing). While you will obviously want your attorney to review the contracts you put in place, why take the risky and expensive path of paying him/her to draft contracts from scratch?
The various available AIA Contract Documents fit a wide range of project types and sizes. Plus, all of the documents are coordinated to work together and are tested by 100+ years of case law. This means fewer loophoops for problems to drop through, and helps ensure fairness in resolution of conflict.
I don't want to sound like a commercial, but AIA docs really do make sense for project owners to get good protection without reinventing the wheel.
[1016]: Architecture + Real Estate[1016] Architecture is ready. Are you? Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then: Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate? To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click here To search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here
For readers who are specifically interested in the New York Real Estate aspects of Inside the Brackets, please tune in here. I'll be creating informative and hopefully some fun content covering the neighborhoods of Northeast Queens and Western Nassau where I live and work.
Inside the Brackets will continue to feature discussion of real estate and architectural topics across a broad range of geographic areas.
[1016]: Architecture + Real Estate[1016] Architecture is ready. Are you? Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then: Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate? To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click here To search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here
It is nice to be reminded that simple ideas can have innovative power. This is especially true in architecture, where simple ideas have a much higher chance of leaping off the drawing board and into reality.
Since the first renderings of Aqua appeared design magazines, Inside the Brackets has been an admirer. Since then, Jeanne Gang founder of Studio Gang, a Chicago-based architecture firm of almost 40 people, has seen quite a reaction to her first high-rise building design. The attention is justified.
Ms. Gang recently spoke at The Art Institute of Chicago in a nearly sold out Fullerton Hall. She covered a variety of her firm's projects in about 90 minutes, and Aqua played only a minor part in the presentation. The main theme connecting the diverse projects was Studio Gang's design process which emphasizes discovering innovative form through project context and function rather than pulling from a limited stylistic bag-of-tricks.
Taking the time to properly research each project's context and history to the level that Studio Gang does is as much a testament to their discipline as the quality of their clients. The result of this process was definitely evident in each of the projects presented.
At Aqua, Studio Gang studied the building's context by documenting potential views from all units. The result of this study was the varied balconies that then became the vehicle for the unique exterior form of the tower.
Aqua certainly succeeds in making a strong visual statement, but what makes the statement noteworthy according to Inside the Brackets is the simplicity and economy of the main vehicle of expression: the curvy and varied projection of the buildings concrete floor slabs. Aqua does not rely on expensive cladding materials or subject its occupants to impractical interior spaces for the honor of architectural aesthetic. The floor slabs are a necessary part of the 82-story building's structure and Studio Gang manipulated them to simultaneously enhance sightlines of major Chicago sites from the balconies (increases function) and give the building exterior an innovative form (increases beauty). The glass-skinned walls of the condo and hotel units behind the balcony edges are rectangular and therefore economical and functional.
Of course, authors who praise and generate media attention also write critically. After granting the building the cover of the May 2010 Architecural Record and a six-page spread the last paragraph of Suzanne Stephens' "Ahead of the Curve" article pans the building's overall visual impact and doubts its success in meeting the design thesis of maximizing sightlines for occupants and observers. Although this Inside the Brackets author has not been inside the building to experience the views first-hand, we find these images compelling.
In the end, there are many ways to judge and critique a mixed-use, infill development building like Aqua, but on the criterion of creative form from a simple idea it is certainly a winner.
For an interesting look at how this building might be considered "green" see this Aqua article also by Suzanne Stephens, Deputy Editor of Architectural Record, presented in GreenSource, another McGraw-Hill publication.
See also: Aqua Tower facts and photos from ArchDaily.
If you are an entrepreneur, a small or medium-size business owner, or believe that entrepreneurship must be fostered for the betterment of all, consider the Kauffman Foundation"Entrepreneur's Pledge." Join the list to stay informed of important issues affecting business creation.
The text of the pledge is as follows: "I am an entrepreneur.
I am following a dream, pursuing an opportunity, taking charge of my own destiny.
I am bringing something of value to society, making a job for myself and for others, and creating wealth that benefits my family, my community, my country, my world.
I am one of a movement of millions of entrepreneurs and innovators who made America great, and who will continue to keep our economy going ... and growing.
I am what I am because many people have helped me along on this journey.
Therefore:
I will tell my story, sharing my successes and failures, so that others taking the entrepreneurial path can learn.
I will strive to mentor an aspiring entrepreneur.
I will make my voice heard by those who make policy decisions that affect me and my business. I will appreciate and celebrate my accomplishments, and the accomplishments of all my fellow entrepreneurs.
I will give back to the society that helped me to be successful.
I will Build a Stronger America."
[1016]: Architecture + Real Estate[1016] Architecture is ready. Are you?Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then:Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate?To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click hereTo search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here(powered by ListingBook)
As part of the Summer 2010 Green Tech U program at the Chicago Center for Green Technology (CCGT), [1016] Architecture principals Josh Canale and Andrew Wilson, AIA, LEED AP will be presenting a lecture/discussion on their lastest green project entitled, "Designing Wrightwood Crossing."
The program will touch on sustainable design ideas through the lens of the project case-study, including: practical application of the LEED for Homes rating system, infill development advantages, and specific systems used on the project. Participant questions will be emphasized and all are welcome.
Thursday, May 27, 2010 from 6 - 8 PM
445 N. Sacramento Blvd. (Between Lake and Chicago) Chicago, IL 60612 For more information about the CCGT, check out their webpage here.
For full Summer 2010 program information about all "Green Tech U" events, click here. (.pdf file)
[1016]: Architecture + Real Estate[1016] Architecture is ready. Are you? Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then: Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate?To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click here To search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here
According to the Wall Street Journal and the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, when pondering this question in 2010, even the majority of homeowners who are not "underwater" on their mortgages are feeling more apt to renovate their existing digs than sell and move to a different home.
This "Do More with Less" theme could well be the theme of 2010 and a nascent economic recovery. In that vein, we wanted to share this video showing how a little space combined with a lot of imagination can result in more than you expect.
The Wall Street Journal article also mentioned a "psychology return on investment" which we are proud to say we covered in one of our previous posts on Getting the Most Out of Home Improvements as "emotional return." A level-headed analysis of costs vs. value should definitely include this non-monetary return on improvements intended to be enjoyed over many years.
[1016]: Architecture + Real Estate[1016] Architecture is ready. Are you?Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then:Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate?To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click hereTo search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here(powered by ListingBook)
Looking for a new home in Long Island or Queens? If you want to search the latest, up-to-the-minute information on the Long Island MLS and then act on that information with confidence, then you probably do need a buyer's agent.
As a licensed architect, co-founder of [1016] Architecture in New York and Chicago, and a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson and Realtor with the New York office of RealEstate.com, I bring a unique perspective to the real estate purchase process and see often opportunities where others may not.
I have dedicated my professional life to learning as much as possible about the real estate market and the built environment. I am committed to sharing that knowledge with my clients through exceptional service.
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate?
To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click here
To search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here (powered by ListingBook)
Click image below to see photos from the last meeting on April 8th at Showcase Kitchens.
The AEC-NYC Professionals Circle is a regional networking community that brings together the finest architecture, engineering and construction professionals in the New York City area. Taking much of the “work” out of networking, our monthly social events provide ample opportunity for members to make meaningful, industry-specific connections.
For over a year and a half, the AEC Professionals Circle has provided low-cost, no-hassle networking opportunities for NYC metro area professionals. [1016]: Architecture + Real Estate [1016] Architecture is ready. Are you?
Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then:
Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate?
To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click here
To search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here (powered by ListingBook)
As architects, we recently meet more and more homeowners who are interested in renovating or adding on to an existing home rather than seeking to sell and move or to build new.
Their questions are plenty, but usually revolve around one central issue: How to I get the most out of my home improvement dollar?
Here are some general tips to consider when deciding whether or not to undertake your project:
Assess how long you want to remain in the home. Obviously, if you are thinking of staying put to enjoy the fruits of your improvements for ten years, you will be able to make different decisions than someone interested in moving on from a fixer-upper after only one or two year. Think of this time as "emotional" or "utilization return" on your investment. This factor will also affect the life-cycle return of energy efficient improvements such as new windows or insulation.
Refer to the latest numbers. Check out this Cost vs. Value 2009-2010 resource from Renovation Magazine to see how much of your money you can reasonable expect to recoup when you sell the house. There is data for various regions and metro areas across the country, so you should be able to get a good idea of a general range for typical improvements such as adding an attic bedroom, or renovating a master bathroom. The difference between cost and value is the true price tag of your improvement.
Consider doing some of the work yourself. Labor can make up anywhere from 15% - 30% (or more) of the cost of a renovation job, so tackling some of the simpler items can make an impact on the overall budget. Beware, however, of taking on more than you can handle safely and economically. Frustrations, complications, and delays are always just below the surface on renovation projects.
Remain sober about the economic benefit of certain changes. If you check the Cost vs. Value chart from number two above, you realize gone are the days of renovating a bathroom or kitchen and selling your house for a 20% gain in just over a year. Is that "true price tag"worth spending to get your emotional or utilization return?
Ask for professional advice before undertaking a big project. As an architect and real estate agent, I am obviously a big proponent of planning and knowing the realities of your real estate market before making decisions regarding home improvements. Most professionals will be glad to give an quick opinion or consult without cost or obligation. If you like what they have to say, consider engaging them to help you with the rest of your project. Find a professional for your job at ServiceMagic.com.
Overall, being realistic with your goals, expectations, budget, and abilities are all critical aspects to a home improvement. Assembling a team of professional advisers may cost a little more on the front end, but could save big bucks by steering you clear of costly mistakes.
About Andrew Wilson
As a licensed architect, co-founder of [1016] Architecture in New York and Chicago, and a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson and Realtor with the New York office of RealEstate.com, I bring a unique perspective to the real estate purchase process and see often opportunities where others may not.
I have dedicated my professional life to learning as much as possible about the real estate market and the built environment. I am committed to sharing that knowledge with my clients through exceptional service.
[1016]: Architecture + Real Estate [1016] Architecture is ready. Are you?
Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then:
Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate?
To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click here
To search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here (powered by ListingBook)
Looking for the best search information for Chicago real estate? Your Problem:
You want to know how to search the MLS for access to Chicago real estate information, just like an agent.
If you are searching the internet independently for Chicagoland real estate listings then you are probably running into the following frustrations:
Fragmented searches on many different websites, none of which give you depth of information you are seeking.
Since information is spread between different brokerage sites, it is difficult to keep a convenient record of which properties you liked or didn’t like.
It is entirely too cumbersome to get additional information or schedule a showing for an interesting home without someone dedicated to helping you.
Submitting questions online and dealing with multiple agents is frustrating and ineffective. Listing agents are too busy or they think you're not worth their time.
An agent for a given property is not obligated to you as the buyer. The seller is their client, not you!
The Solution: A Buyer's Agent + ListingBook
You need the best available information at your fingertips and an agent available as a professional resource to answer questions specific to your situation. I do that in association with a powerful and free website called ListingBook.com.
ListingBook puts the power of up-to-the-minute MLS searches at your fingertips and provides a single-source for all listings, communications, and recordkeeping with me as your buyer’s agent. ListingBook increases the breadth of your search across all MLS listings, just like an agent, and consolidates results in one place to save you time.
You are in control and are free to update your searches as you see fit. Don't be forced to rely on unresponsive agents for changes.
Also, with a free ListingBook account through me, I will be informed of the progress of your search and will be available to answer questions along the way. You will have access to a single agent as a dedicated resource.
After technology stops, the transaction begins, and that will always require the best people on your team.
Visit Josh's ListingBook page to learn more and to search the MLS with real-time information. Don't forget to ask me about the homebuyer tax credit which is set to expire soon! Whether you are a first time buyer or moving from a house you already own, you could be eligible to save.
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate?
To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click here
To search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here (powered by ListingBook)
[1016]'s largest project to date, Wrightwood Crossing in Lincoln Park, Chicago, was featured in the "Deal Estate" section of the March 2010 Chicago Magazine.
The author highlights the developer's flexibility in dealing with neighborhood groups and other area stakeholders. G.Corp Development has a very high reputation for managing the development process in Chicago's most sensitive neighborhoods.
Construction progress continues, and this infill architecture development is seeking LEED Platinum certification from the USGBC.
Also, be on the look out for a [1016] Architecture presentation on this LEED registered project as part of the "Green Tech University" at the Chicago Center for Green Technology. More information will follow.
Read the full Chicago Magazine article online: here.
Check out other Wrightwood articles on Inside the Brackets: here. [1016]: Architecture + Real Estate [1016] Architecture is ready. Are you?
Let us know: Think about it, comment below, then:
Check out [1016] elsewhere on the web: Facebook, eHow, SlideShare
Looking for Chicago or Long Island Real Estate?
To search Chicago MLS like an agent: Click here
To search Long Island MLS like an agent: Click here (powered by ListingBook)
We got glazing.
Here are the latest construction progress pictures from [1016] Architecture-designed Wrightwood Crossing in Lincoln Park, Chicago. Most of the (highly energy efficient) windows are now installed, so now you can really get a feel of what the building will look like. Some masonry details on the south are to be completed.
View looking southeast from Wrightwood Ave.
Northeast corner of the building from Wrightwood Ave.
View of south elevations from the interior of property.
Wrightwood Crossing is an infill development project owned by G.Corp Development. The building is LEED registered seeking Platinum Certification.
Inside the Brackets covers topics such as trends, sustainability, high-performance design, real estate market, and the economy. Chicago, Queens, and Long Island real estate are our areas of expertise.
The main purpose of Inside the Brackets is to develop a conversation and serve as a resource for those who are looking for more information on these topics.
We combine architectural knowledge with real estate expertise.
![[1016]: Inside the Brackets](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIF21vMvhIGLrvUVJ2lneHDRQxNS1kIzPYGa1opeeWKKklq2O1ZzP0Ve3BbT57IunlAYDe3WNX5JBRC9opoJKUrbZRPJG8zldYwNku3rMTXdbMKS-iurfCvvjB3pq-N-zgML2sJcep04/s1600-r/%5B1016%5DLogoBlog01.gif)
