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Kengo Kuma’s Yama-Tani: A Human-Scaled Masterpiece in Paris

Kengo Kuma & Associates have introduced an architectural gem in the northeast of Paris with the Yama-Tani residential building. Unlike the towering structures surrounding it, Yama-Tani blends seamlessly with its low-rise neighborhood, offering a refreshing departure from the city’s typical high-rises. Designed to evoke a village-like atmosphere within an urban setting, this development emphasizes both human scale and a deep connection with nature. A Village in the City The Yama-Tani project stands as a testament to the firm’s commitment to designing with nature in mind. The name “Yama-Tani” translates to “mountain-valley,” reflecting the building’s organic, flowing form. Its stepped structure,

October 14, 2024 No Comments

property News

Sudbury’s $1.7M Grant Hinges on Old Hospital Demolition

Sudbury’s downtown revitalization could soon get a boost as Panoramic Properties seeks a $1.7 million municipal grant to renovate the Scotia Tower into residential units. However, Mayor Paul Lefebvre has placed a condition on the grant: the old, long-vacant hospital building on Paris Street, also owned by Panoramic Properties, must be demolished. The Scotia Tower project, set to add 83 residential units downtown, is part of a larger housing initiative that aligns with the city’s Housing Supply Strategy and Downtown Master Plan. Despite the potential benefits, public sentiment in Sudbury has long been frustrated by the neglected state of the

October 11, 2024 No Comments

property News

Manhattan’s Luxury Real Estate Booms Despite Supply Shortages

The Manhattan luxury real estate market experienced a surge in home contracts during the third quarter of 2024, despite a notable decrease in available listings. According to recent reports, sales of residential properties priced at $20 million or more saw a 16.7% year-over-year increase, signaling a significant uptick in high-end property activity. Historically, real estate activity in Manhattan tends to slow down during the summer months. However, the third quarter saw a surprising rise in ultra-luxury home deals, driven by a strong stock market and lower interest rates. Compass, a leading brokerage, reported a 15.4% jump in contracts for homes

October 5, 2024 No Comments

UK News

Paris Apartment Blends Minimalism with Napoleon-Era Grandeur

Renowned French architect Joris Poggioli recently transformed his Paris apartment, skillfully blending modern minimalism with the rich architectural heritage of the Napoleon era. Located in a mansion once used as Napoleon Bonaparte’s office, the apartment reflects a harmonious mix of historical preservation and contemporary design. Poggioli’s vision for the renovation was clear: maintain the “historic soul” of the 90-square-meter apartment while incorporating minimalist design elements that speak to the present day. “It was an opportunity to merge my passion for minimalism with the grandeur of Napoleon-era architecture,” he explained. This approach was not just about restoring the space but allowing

October 2, 2024 No Comments

News

Hackney Wick Gets Green Light for 337-Home Co-Living Development

Hackney Wick, a vibrant and creative area in East London, is set to welcome a new co-living development after receiving approval from the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC). This exciting project, led by investor Mitheridge and developer Halcyon, will deliver 337 co-living homes in two modern blocks located along the canalside at 115-119 Wallis Road. The development is set to transform the waterside location, which currently houses three low-rise warehouses, into a thriving residential and commercial hub. The co-living scheme will feature a mix of five- and eight-storey blocks, offering studio apartments designed for individuals who value a community-oriented lifestyle.

September 30, 2024 No Comments

property News

Why Mortgage Changes Won’t Solve London’s Rental Crisis

The federal government’s recent decision to extend mortgage amortizations to 30 years for first-time homebuyers aims to make homeownership more accessible, but experts suggest this will do little to alleviate London’s tight rental market. With vacancy rates at a mere 1.7% and rental prices continuing to rise, industry analysts predict minimal impact on the overall rental supply. While the mortgage expansion now includes first-time buyers of any home type, along with those purchasing newly built homes, this change doesn’t address the root issue of housing affordability. Even with lower monthly payments, housing prices in London remain significantly high, making homeownership

September 27, 2024 No Comments

property News

Delays in London’s Affordable Homes Programme: 90% of Projects Must Begin in Next Two Years

New data from the London Assembly Housing Committee highlights a pressing challenge for the Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) 2021-26. According to the report, over 90% of the homes promised under this scheme need to start construction within the next two years to meet the programme’s goals. The AHP, designed to deliver between 23,900 and 27,100 affordable homes by March 2026, has seen limited progress. By March 2024, only 1,777 homes had begun construction. This delay has raised concerns, as completions for the current phase must be achieved by 2030. Several factors contribute to this delay. The ongoing impacts of inflation,

September 26, 2024 No Comments

property News

London’s Housing Starts Surge in August: A Positive Economic Indicator

The housing market in the London, Ontario area saw a remarkable surge in August 2024, with housing starts more than tripling compared to the same month in 2023. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), 470 housing units were initiated in August, a significant jump from the 151 units recorded in August 2023. This 211% increase places London as the third-highest region in Ontario for new housing starts, trailing only Oshawa and Peterborough. Mayor Josh Morgan attributes this growth to improved economic conditions and strategic planning by the city council. He noted that, despite the economic challenges of

September 24, 2024 No Comments

UK News

Modern Mayfair: A Luxe Transformation

Mayfair, one of London’s most iconic districts, is undergoing a remarkable transformation, solidifying its status as the city’s most coveted address. This historic area, known for its Georgian architecture and upscale appeal, is experiencing a resurgence, driven by new residential and commercial developments that cater to a global elite. Grosvenor Square, the heart of Mayfair, has long been a symbol of prestige. Now, with the American Embassy’s relocation and the completion of high-end developments like No 1 and No 20 Grosvenor Square, the area is setting new benchmarks for luxury living. These residences, offering hotel-like amenities, have attracted wealthy buyers

September 18, 2024 No Comments

Featured

London rents now consume 40% of income.

The dynamics of London’s rental market paint a complex picture of affordability challenges and regional disparities. While the average rent in the capital remains significantly higher than in other parts of the country, it’s important to delve deeper into the factors driving these discrepancies. London’s status as a global financial hub and cultural epicenter contributes to its allure, attracting a diverse population seeking opportunities and experiences. However, this influx of residents also intensifies competition for housing, driving up prices in an already constrained market. Historically, the supply of housing in London has struggled to keep pace with demand, leading to

March 28, 2024 No Comments