Commercial architecture is its own field of design, with unique concerns and practices. To give a simple commercial architecture definition, it is architecture focused solely on buildings and spaces thatare usedfor commercial purposes. These include offices, retail outlets, and other facilities where commercial businessis conducted.

At first glance, the basic processes followed in many types of architecture seem the same. Whether a project is commercial, residential, institutional, etc., it tends to follow the same set of basic steps:

Thatbeing said, there is still quite adifference in the details and considerations of commercial architecture. These unique aspects are what define commercial architecture as its own category of design.Letsreview them closely.

Commercial architecture stands apart from other forms by focusing on the clients business needs. The entire designmust be engineeredto accommodate the type of business run within the facility and make the clients business goals easier to reach.

This is where commercial architects must meet a higher challenge.In residential work, for example, the design must only cater to the needs of a small group of people the occupying household.Butin commercial architecture, the design must satisfy the occupying business, its employees, and all customers(or patients, clients, and any other people the business may serve).

Commercial architects work to understand the behavior of customers and others who interact with their clients business. This requires a firm graspof the psychology of sales, as well as a familiarity with consumer trends.

Most importantly, commercial architects investigate how various design choices can influencehow consumers behave, what decisions they make, and how they perceive the clients brand, products, and services.

Of course, consideration of consumers only makes up a part of commercial designs duties. Architects in this sector must also know how to best approach design for their clients specific facility type and specific business operations. This includes accommodating the particular equipment, merchandise, and storage needs of the clients business.

For example, a producer of fresh beverages may need their facilitys design to provide large temperature-controlled storage areas. Such a client could also need spacious loading bays that allow delivery vehicles to easily access these storage areas and maintain stable transport conditions.

Accommodating business operations often requires extra infrastructure as well. Architects working on commercial projects must be ableto strategically incorporateelevators, parking lots, and other features that would rarely be seen in the residential sphere.

Overall, commercial design must account for the way that the clients business functions on aday to daybasis. It should enable all business activitiesto not only becomfortable, but also as efficient as possible. This is true whether the client is serving customers in a fast-food restaurant, or manufacturing products in a large workshop.

Commercial architecture requires a sharp business sense with an eye for future developments. Architects in this sector must be able to design a facility that will be suitable for many years to come. They should also spot opportunities to give their clients a competitive edge.

Successful commercial designs can adapt to market trends and allow for business growth,even as the clients industry evolves and changes. This is why flexibility is a prized feature in commercial architecture, and market research is such a powerful tool.

At one point or another, every commercialbusiness needs help improving an existing facility or developing a new property. Corporate offices, retail shops, restaurants, and a variety of other businesses can all benefit frompartneringwith a skilled commercial architect.

If your business needs assistance with designing an ideal commercial property,PionArchcan help. You can leverage our expertise to gain important insights for your project and develop a design that offers maximum value for your company and its stakeholders.Welldeliver strategies backed by industry knowledge, and results that will meet your companys every need.

From hip cafes to sleek workspaces, our portfolio features a diverse range of standout projects. Our teams extensive experience will ensure that your project enjoysits own great success.

Ifyoudlike to learn more about our packages and pricing, please read about ourdesign fees.Yourealso welcome to reach out to us for a personal consultation and detailed quote.

Reveal Your Businesss Potential Get Your Quote.

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Lincolnshire-based architectural practice PolkeyCollins is celebrating a strong year in business, despite the uncertainty that the COVID-19 pandemic presented the construction industry earlier this year.

Specialising in commercial architectural services, across multiple sectors including retail, office, science and education, PolkeyCollins has reported an increase in turnover in 2020 compared with 2019.

The company, which was founded by Clive Polkey and Daniel Collins, made multiple hires throughout the year including architectural and administrative staff, who have helped to propel the companys growth strategy forward, and has now prompted a decision to move to new, larger offices in 2021.

As well as strengthening the team, PolkeyCollins has also made significant investments in its BIM (Building Information Modelling) capabilities, which includes the introduction of upgraded software and training for the team.

Director Clive Polkey, said: This year has been a challenging time for everyone and we are grateful for the support we have had from our clients, partners and team members, who have pulled together throughout the year.

By specialising in understanding the client and applying design rigour across multiple sectors, we have seen positive responses and attitudes to the way we work. Our ethos has always been about creating a progressive architectural practice that delivers cost effective, detailed designs that are viable from concept to completion. This is something we strongly believe in and has proven to be even more important this year.

We are lucky to count some the UK best known brands and leading educational organisations as clients and along with new business, we have seen the number of enquiries for our services and live projects grow. This is reflected in our turnover increase and is testament to our teams skill and hard work.

Fellow director Daniel Collins, added: The challenges of this year have helped us to focus on supporting our team and meeting and surpassing the needs and expectations of our valued clients.

We are proud of our achievements as a business over the last twelve months despite the uncertainty and we have remained focused on our business plan. We are now seeing the positive results of that strategy, with a clear direction for the company over the next few years.

Our team are everything; they have worked together through difficult times with their positive, energetic and productive approach and it has made a huge difference in the work we have been able to achieve this year.

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Architect eyes larger office after 'strong' year | TheBusinessDesk.com - The Business Desk

Life as we know it has changed due to the pandemic; masks are mandatory, social distancing is encouraged and sanitisation is life-saving. Our homes have now become a place to work, relax, exercise, attend school and shop its no surprise that interior design trends are seeing a massive change.

With economies freefalling, the Interior Design industry has dealt with its fair share of impact. However, heres some good news: the global interior design services market to reach four billion, growing at a CAGR of 7.8% between 2020 to 2027. China is forecast to grow at 11.9% CAGR. Japan and Canada are forecasted to grow at 4.2% and 7% respectively. Germany is set to grow approximately 5.1% CAGR.

More construction in developed economies such as the US is likely to increase the demand for design and architecture services. As the rich get richer, new homes are acquired and existing spaces are constantly renovated. There is a growing trend to customise and personalise the space we live in, from kitchens to bath spaces and more recently, home offices and study rooms.

Source: Mireya Acierto/Getty Images for Robin Wilson Home/AFP

People still want big kitchens that open onto a family room but home offices, outdoor spaces, and Zoom rooms (or at least a dedicated space for Zoom meetings and lecturers) are big on wish lists, says interior designer Caitlin Scanlon of Caitlin Scanlon Design.

For students who enjoy frequent excursions to IKEA and constantly marvel at showroom exhibitions, a degree in Interior Design might just be the next best move. You can learn how to create your own showrooms, the skills to deal with clients and the technical knowledge to create spaces that consider human health, well-being, and safety. With this degree, youll have access to internship opportunities and formal training to progress to earning your license and practice alternatively, you can continue with a masters degree and then a PhD.

For those planning to join the industry, the average interior designer makes an average of US$50,224, which is one of the highest median wages, compared to professions in other fields.The BA (Hons) Interior Design at University of Arts London has produced graduates that are not only industry ready and qualified, but also think out of the box as they take part in a live project in year two and a large-scale interior project that examines all aspects of an interior environment from conception through to completion in year three.

Situated in Sydney and Melbourne, Whitehouse Institute of Design offers a Bachelor of Design (Interior Design) programme that focuses on a diverse range of areas including residential, retail, community and commercial office interior design. New York School of Interior Designs Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design offers interesting modules that include kitchen and bath design, furniture design, and an architectural workshop. Thats not all, students must also take an intensive course in either French or Italian heres to a well all-rounded education!

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Why 2021 is the year you should become an Interior Design major - Study International News

Pune, India, Dec. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global architectural acoustic panels market size is projected to reach USD 9,752.8 million by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period. Development of acoustic panels made from eco-friendly and recycled organic waste will be a prime growth determinant for this market, states Fortune Business Insights in its report, titled Architectural Acoustic Panels Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Product Type (Metal Acoustic Panels, Plastic Acoustic Panels, Wood Acoustic Panels and Others), By Application (Residential, Commercial and Industrial) and Regional Forecast, 2020-2027. The construction industry predominantly relies on synthetic and inorganic materials such as polystyrene and glass wool for thermal insulation and noise reduction. However, these materials are known to have significant environmental impacts and as a result, acoustic panel manufacturers are showing increasing interest in utilizing biodegradable materials for making soundproofing solutions. For example, Soundproof Cow has engineered the Quiet Batt 30 Soundproofing Insulation, which is made from 80% recycled cotton and is non-toxic as well as itch-free. Similarly, Audimute has developed its green sound absorption solution, the eco-C-tex, which has been produced from recycled cotton and cellulose. With regulatory bodies emphasizing on reducing pollution from buildings, the demand for green architectural acoustic panels is expected to rise in the coming years.

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According to the report, the global market value stood at USD 7,862.8 million in 2019. The top features of the report include:

List of theTop Companies Profiled in the Global Architectural Acoustic Panels Market are:

Restraining Factor

Subdued Construction Activities amid COVID-19 to Stifle Market Growth

A major challenge impeding the architectural acoustic panels market growth is the on-going and the steadily intensifying COVID-19 pandemic that has caused unprecedented damage to the global construction industry. A recent survey by the London-based Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) found that construction activity contracted across the globe in the second quarter of 2020. With 25% of projects coming to a standstill and on-site productivity falling by 12%, the escalating costs are anticipated to exert tremendous pressure on the construction industry over the next twelve months.

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The adoption of architectural acoustic panels will be inevitably affected due to the sudden decline in constructions as these panels are widely utilized for noise control in this industry. Moreover, disrupted investment plans will further hamper the market as acoustic panels are expensive.

Regional Insights

Massive Investments in Infrastructure to Propel the Asia Pacific Market

Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the architectural acoustic panels market share during the forecast period on account of the massive public and private investment in infrastructure development in the region. The region is also witnessing a huge influx of foreign investments in the construction sector, which also favors the growth of the market. In 2019, the Asia Pacific market size stood at USD 3,533.4 million.

Europe is predicted to hold the second-largest position in the global market as a large number of multinational companies in the region are rapidly adoption architectural acoustic panels to comply with the green building regulations set by the European Union (EU). Robust growth of the construction industry in the US will accelerate the growth of the North America market in the forthcoming years.

Competitive Landscape

Apex Players to Implement Aggressive Expansion Strategies

With the intent to capture a larger market share, key players in this market are aggressively implementing strategies to entrench their position. Chief among these is the launch of sound-absorbing solutions made from sustainable materials as the emphasis on green buildings is rising worldwide. The other strategy adopted by the leading companies is the acquisition of regional players to deepen their presence in regional markets.

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Acoustic Panel Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Product type (Wooden Acoustic Panels, Mineral Wool Acoustic Panels, Fabric Acoustic Panels, Polyester Acoustic Panels Others), By Application (Construction, Industrial, Transportation, Other) and regional forecast 2020-2027

Acoustical Ceiling Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Product type (Mineral fibre, Gypsum, Others), By Application (Non-Residential, Residential, Industrial) and Regional Forecast, 2020-2027

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Architectural Acoustic Panels Market to Hit USD 9,752.8 Million by 2027; Rising Demand for Efficient Soundproofing Solutions from the Hotel Industry...

10. Arper Outfits the CBRE Groups New Office in AmsterdamThe CBRE Group, the worlds largest commercial real estate services and investment firm, moved into new Amsterdam offices that once housed a car garage. The Dutch branch relied on their own design team to create the modern interior of The Core, which merged original details with new furnishings from Arper.

9. The noho move chair Is Made From Reclaimed Fishing Nets + CarpetsNew brand noho launched with a new chair thats completely sustainable, as its made from a 100% regenerated and regenerable nylon. Based in Aotearoa, New Zealand, noho collaborated with Aquafil to create an everyday chair collection made out of ECONYL regenerated nylon, a material from upcycled waste plastic, like reclaimed fishing nets and end-of-use carpets. The noho move chair is designed with dynamic comfort which allows the user to sit back and lean forward while the chair moves with you.

8. Montreals Empty Olympic Tower Revived into Offices for DesjardinsAbandoned since 1987, the Olympic Tower of Montreal was transformed into new offices for Desjardins, one of Quebecs largest financial institutions. Provencher_Roy designed the office interiors which span seven of the buildings 12 floors, equaling 80% of the available rental space. Now labeled the Montreal Tower, the structure was opened up when Provencher_Roy removed a good portion of the prefabricated concrete panels and replaced them with an all-glass curtain wall covering about 60% of the facade.

7. ROOM Launches New Modular Meeting Rooms for the Modern WorkspaceNew York-based ROOM continued to reimagine the modern workspace with modular architectural solutions that give employees options for privacy. The startup launched a trio of new designs the Meeting Room, Open Meeting Room, and the Focus Room offering private spaces for focused work or collaboration, whether its in-person or virtual.

6. The Ziggy Table and Stool Easily Adapt to Any Work SituationMany companies have been prioritizing adaptability to keep up with the needs of their ever-evolving workspaces and employees. The Ziggy Table and Ziggy Stool, designed by Brad Ascalon for Hightower, are compact pieces that keep that in mind. The geometric duo are both fun and functional and can easily be moved around as needed for solo work or brought together to collaborate with others.

5. H-E-B Digital and Favor Set up New Office in Austins 1st Recycling CenterOnce home to Austins first recycling center, this 81,000-square-foot warehouse was renovated by IA Interior Architects to become the new home of H-E-B Digital and Favor Delivery. The massive transformation resulted in an energetic headquarters decked out with local art and materials that give nod to its Texas location.

4. Nendo Infuses 1s and 0s into Glass Partitions at an Office in TokyoWhen designing the new interior of the IoT Center for a global professional firms Tokyo office, nendo dove into the digital world. In addition to the typical workspaces and conference rooms, the digital hub in Tokyo housesthree galleries and a lounge where new digital technologies are put on display and a multipurpose space for seminars and events. Instead of using typical partitions to divide the spaces, nendo designed transparent glass walls infused with binary code, i.e. the 0s and 1s computers use to write and store data.

3. Shapeless Studio Brings Geometric Shapes to the New NYC Ahlem Eyewear ShopLA-based Ahlem Eyewear enlisted the help of Shapeless Studio Architecture & Interiors to design their retail space in New York City. The modern eyewear brand, which specializes in design-focused frames handmade in Paris, moved into the flexible 500-square-foot space situated on Elizabeth Street in SoHo a space that can easily morph into a showroom, gallery, or event space. Taking inspiration from the brands unique eyewear, particularly their craftsmanship, geometric forms, and use of sustainable materials, the designers created a space that welcomes visitors with a floating curved wall, custom millwork, and sculptural walnut doors inspired by the work of Isamu Noguchi.

2. A Warehouse Is Transformed with Shipping Containers into Innovative OfficeWhen the Spectris Innovation Centre Porto was looking to expand, studium transformed an empty warehouse in Maia, Portugal. The basic warehouse with grey walls is now a colorful home to a variety of meeting areas, team spaces, individual work spots for about 60, and select places for leisure time.

And the most popular At The Office post of 2020 is

1. See Inside the New Art-Filled Offices of JAY-Zs Roc NationSurrounded by galleries in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City, the new offices of Roc Nation fit right in with founder and rapper JAY-Zs collection of modern art displayed throughout. Working closely with Roc Nations CEO, Desiree Perez, architect Jeffrey Beers designed a sleek, collaborative environment perfectly complementing the entertainment companys impressive roster of talent and other creative ventures.

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Best At The Office Posts of 2020 - Design Milk

Brainerd Chemical Company Inc. is a major manufacturer and distributor of chemicals for research facilities, industrial plants and agricultural operations.

C L Boyd Company Inc., aka the Clarence L Boyd company, is the John Deere construction equipment dealer for much of Oklahoma and more than 100 years old. The Crews family has been involved in operations since the 1930s.

CACI is a $5.7 billion company whose mission and enterprise technology and expertise play a vital role in our national security, safeguarding our troops, and enabling our government to deliver cost-effective and high-quality support for all Americans..

Casualty Corporation of America, Inc. is a locally owned Oklahoma property and casualty insurance company based in Jones. The company commenced business in 1964.

CEC is a privately held, multidiscipline engineering firm whose collaborative, highly skilled problem-solvers provide solutions to improve infrastructure, from conception, to design, to construction. Incorporated in 1966, CEC has grown to more than 210 employees strong, with offices located in Texas, along with Oklahoma. Clients include numerous federal, state, municipal, county, government agencies and private organizations.

Central Technology Center, part of the Oklahoma CareerTech system, provides technical education leading to individual success and elevates the workforce through economic development collaborations. Last year, CTC had more than 20,000 enrollments and provided customized business and industry training to 400 companies. Training included a wide array of safety classes with an emphasis on tailoring curriculum to meet the needs of each specific industry.

City of Mustang offers wide-ranging services to the citizens of Mustang, a suburb of Oklahoma City. An award winning Library, unmatched recreational opportunities and programming, emergency services that are well planned, equipped and trained, a commitment to reinvest in infrastructure, a construction environment that is not over regulated, a fiscally conservative administration, a calm political climate and a willing and helpful team of employees are what make the organization successful.

Claims Management Resources adjusts and recovers property damage claims for self-insured entities. CMR partners with organizations in the utility industry and governmental agencies.

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Who are the Top Workplaces contenders? - Oklahoman.com

Three projects and initiatives in Covington and Ludlow received funding Tuesday from the 2020 Urban Revitalization grant program from Duke Energy.

The utility company awarded $213,500 to eight projects and small business assistance programs across the Cincinnati area.

This is the tenth year of the program which has awarded more than $2.6 million to 83 projects across the region.

Its exciting and gratifying to see how these grants have spurred development and lasting change along dozens of Main Streets across southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky over the past 10 years, said Amy Spiller, president of Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky. These urban cores are transforming into vibrant and entrepreneurial hubs with beautifully restored buildings, dynamic businesses and a diversity of new jobs.

The Duke Energy grant really uplifts and injects life into our project and inspires hope around what we can bring to the West End community amidst a health and racial pandemic, said Toilynn ONeal Turner, founding director of the Robert ONeal Multicultural Arts Center, which was awarded $100,000 as part of this years Urban Revitalization grants.

The reality is every dollar makes a significant impact, said ONeal Turner. And the initial dollars, for things like our architect and our surveyors and to develop our marketing strategy, these dollars are crucial for us to see the vision of this project coming to life.

Its been a wonderful experience to keep moving forward at a time when many of us are really trying to evaluate and address how were going to move forward collectively.

$10,000 was awarded to the Catalytic Development Fund of Northern Kentucky for 722 Scott Blvd. in Covington, the former site of NorthKey Community Care.

The project will create 11,600 sq. ft. of office space.

The grant funds will assist in architectural and engineering drawings, as well as other pre-development costs required to qualify for historic tax credits.

The Catalytic Fund was also awarded $15,000 for 471 Elm St. in Ludlow where North South Baking Co. is set to expand. Owner Kate Standfest owns and operates the business and is working with the Catalytic Fund to transform the property into a commercial baking kitchen to serve wholesale customers, and to offer on-site retail.

The grant will go towards architectural design and engineering services for the 3,000-sq. ft. building which was originally home to an automobile service and filling station.

The Center for Great Neighborhoods of Covington was awarded $11,000 in support of culinary businesses and a commercial bakery retail space.

The funding will allow the organization to offer virtual support to local chefs, many of whom completed its chef fellowship program, launched in 2016 to support local residents passionate about food, but lacking money and connections to bring their visions to fruition.

It will also allow for pre-development work on a shared retail and commercial bakery space on Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.

-Staff report

Image via Kenton Co. PVA

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Covington, Ludlow Development Projects Awarded Funds - The River City News

Flagler County commissioners on Monday will consider approving a $20 million loan from a commercial bank to finance the proposed Sheriffs Operations Center in Bunnell, significantly adding to the countys current debt load of $142 million and annual debt servicing of more than $11 million, records show.

Six banks responded to Flaglers Nov. 3 request for proposals to finance the loan. The countys financial adviser is recommending awarding the bid to CenterState Bank, whose Gary Lubi, a well-connected local banker and past president of the now defunct Chamber of Commerce, submitted that banks proposal: a 15-year loan at a fixed 1.83 percent interest, pending a closing on or before Dec. 18. Lubi has brokered various financing and re-financing arrangements with Palm Coast, the county and the school board over the years.

CenterStates was not the lowest bid. Capital One offered a 1.68 percent interest rate, one of J.P. Morgans four options was a rate equal to that of CenterState, and RaymondJames offered a 1.69 percent rate. Other bidders were KeyBank and Truist.

While CenterState did not offer the lowest fixed interest, Jay Glover, the countys financial adviser wrote in a memo to Jerry Cameron, the county administrator, their proposal includes an attractive draw down feature that will allow the County to draw funds down through June 30, 2022. This minimizes the interest cost in early years and gives the County flexibility on final draw if the full $20,000,000 is not needed to complete the project. When comparing the CenterState proposal to the lowest interest rate proposal (Capital One at 1.68%), there is a small present value benefit in debt service cost with the draw down feature.

The CenterState loan would bring principal and interest costs of the loan to $22.85 million.

Architects and the general contractor on the project unveiled plans for the 51,000 square foot building along the future Commerce Parkway, south of the Government Services Building complex, at a commission meeting on Monday. The county is the landlord for all constitutional officers, responsible for housing all their offices at the countys expense. The sheriffs Office vacated its operations center off State Road 100 in mid-2018 after employees became chronically sick from what was believed to be water intrusion and other issues that caused symptoms similar to sick building syndrome. The county had bought and renovated that building for $7 million less than three years before. The building was sold at a huge loss in July: the buyer paid $807,000 for it, an apparent difference of just $423,000 from the price the county paid for it in 2013, but that was before the nearly $6 million in renovations the county invested in the building. The county is still carrying that debt.

Contrary to Camerons claims to commissioners on Monday, the proposed loan for the new building will not be bonded and financed by the countys half-penny surtax that the commission approved in 2012: since the commission voted in the tax, foregoing a referendum, the commission does not have the authority to bond revenue or finance a loan from that particular tax. It will finance the bank loan through the countys portion of the states sales tax revenue.

The two taxes are often confused, as Cameron appeared to have been on Monday when a commissioner noted that the local surtax doesnt go on forever. It does if you say it does Cameron told the commissioner (the tax is not set to expire before 2032). Each tax generates about $2.9 million a year.

The small county surtax we enacted cannot be used to pay debt and cannot be used to repay this bank loan, County Attorney Al Hadeed confirmed. (Cameron himself appears to have ordered his public information office not to answer questions about his inaccurate statements on Monday. When asked what bond he was referring to on Monday, Julie Murphy, whos in charge of Camerons PR, wrote, This is not a public records request. The records, however, which were not provided by Murphy, clarify the picture, though it isnt clear why Cameron did not disclose the financial recommendations to commissioners on Monday: the countys financial adviser sent his memo on Dec. 1.)

The countys commission-approved half-penny surtax has paid or will pay for such things as the cottages at Princess Place Preserve, parking at Bings Landing, improvements at Bunnells Carver Gym and the long-planned, yet-to-be-built south branch library. Revenue from the half-penny share of the state sales tax, which may be bonded, paid for the jail expansion, the once and future sheriffs operations center, the GSB complex and will be used for a west-side fire station.

But in both cases, money spent on those projects means its money diverted from other needs. That will also be true of the financing of the sheriffs operations center, which will significantly narrow the countys ability to pay for other projects through that fund. It is difficult to conceive, for example, how the county would pay for both the operations center and a branch library. The countys available funds for unexpected projects or emergencies will also be further limited.

The loan amount for the proposed sheriffs building falls short of projected costs for the building, which on Monday were pegged at just under $21 million, when architectural and engineering fees and furniture costs are included, as they must be. The cost does not include an additional building for purchasing and logistics planned for the sheriffs grounds, and it does not include interest on the loan, all of which would push the cost well beyond $21 million.

Fortunately for the county, it has no legal debt limits.

The $142.5 million in debt the county is currently carrying was issued between 2004 and 2020. Not all of it is for general government services. For example, the nearly $10 million owed for the Plantation Bay sewer plant and water projects the commission approved this year and last are administered through a separate fund that only Plantation Bay utility ratepayers are responsible for. Thats also the case for the outstanding debt of $6.5 million from when the county acquired the plant in 2014. The airport and a Beverly Beach utility the county administers also have their own funds, outside of the general government stream.

In sum, the county currently owes $115 million through its general government funds, and $27 million through proprietary funds such as Plantation Bay and the airport. In general government, for example, the county took out a bond to build the GSB complex in 2005 and refinanced in 2015, leaving it with a still-outstanding debt of $52 million. The $33 million bond to build the courthouse in 2005 was not refinanced. The county still owes nearly $29 million on that building. (See the countys debts in detail here.)

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$21 Million Sheriff's Building Would Be Financed With 15-Year CenterState Bank Loan at 1.83% Interest - FlaglerLive.com

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CINCINNATI Duke Energy today announced the recipients of its 2020 Urban Revitalization grants, which deliver $213,500 to eight redevelopment and small business assistance programs across southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky.

This is the 10th iteration of the companys Urban Revitalization grants. Since launching the program in 2011, Duke Energy has awarded more than $2.6 million to 83 grantees across Greater Cincinnati.

Its exciting and gratifying to see how these grants have spurred development and lasting change along dozens of Main Streets across southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky over the past 10 years, said Amy Spiller, president of Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky. These urban cores are transforming into vibrant and entrepreneurial hubs with beautifully restored buildings, dynamic businesses and a diversity of new jobs.

Video Amy Spiller speaks about Urban Revitalization grant program

On top of funding redevelopment projects in urban areas outside of Cincinnatis central business district, this years Urban Revitalization grants also provide support to entrepreneurs and small businesses that continue to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Duke Energy grant really uplifts and injects life into our project and inspires hope around what we can bring to the West End community amidst a health and racial pandemic, said Toilynn ONeal Turner, founding director of the Robert ONeal Multicultural Arts Center, which was awarded $100,000 as part of this years Urban Revitalization grants.

The reality is every dollar makes a significant impact, said ONeal Turner. And the initial dollars, for things like our architect and our surveyors and to develop our marketing strategy, these dollars are crucial for us to see the vision of this project coming to life.

Its been a wonderful experience to keep moving forward at a time when many of us are really trying to evaluate and address how were going to move forward collectively.

VideoToilynn ONeal Turner speaks about impact of Urban Revitalization grant

Duke Energy, through the Duke Energy Foundation, provided more than $2 million in grants across Greater Cincinnati communities in 2020. This includes nearly $300,000 for pandemic-related causes like hunger relief and elder care, supplies for front-line workers, and grants to struggling small businesses owned by women, veterans and minorities.

Grants provide gap funding, catalysts for further economic development

The vision for the Urban Revitalization grant program emerged during and after the Great Recession. Thats when Duke Energy leaders learned that nontraditional developers like community groups, small business owners and entrepreneurs were interested in giving new life to historic, yet blighted and neglected, buildings that once served as the epicenters of communities and neighborhoods. However, these visionaries experienced difficulties getting these projects off the ground.

Plans to restore a 100-year-old structure from top to bottom oftentimes cannot move forward due to small, but critical, upfront costs, like the development of detailed architectural and engineering plans, said Spiller. This is where the Urban Revitalization grants prove invaluable.

While our funding is modest in comparison to the costs to redevelop or revamp a property, these catalyst grants are vital for individuals and organizations to obtain the necessary credentials for seeking and securing permits, additional grants and traditional financing for construction.

Photos Urban Revitalizations grantees, past and present

2020 Urban Revitalization grantees

The following Greater Cincinnati projects were awarded grants today:

Catalytic Development Funding Corp. of Northern Kentucky

The redevelopment of the former NorthKey Community Care building will create 11,600 square feet of high-quality and desirable office space. Future tenants will value the buildings location, which is one block west of Covingtons vibrant Madison Avenue commercial corridor and 1 mile south of downtown Cincinnati, as well as its 40-space, on-site parking lot. The Urban Revitalization grant will be put toward architectural and engineering drawings, as well as other predevelopment costs required to qualify for historic tax credits. Experts believe this project could serve as a catalyst for the redevelopment of at least three neighboring properties along Scott Street.

Catalytic Development Funding Corp. of Northern Kentucky

Kate Standfest owns and operates North South Baking Co. and sells her delicious baked goods at events, cafes and coffee shops across the region. Soon shell be able to expand her operations and create jobs all while giving new life to a vacant, 90-year-old structure in the heart of Ludlow. Standfest is working with the Catalytic Fund to transform the building at 471 Elm St. into a commercial baking kitchen that will serve North South Bakings existing wholesale customers as well as offer an on-site retail area. The Duke Energy grant will be used for architectural design and engineering services related to the transformation of the 3,000-square-foot building, which originally housed an automobile filling and service station.

Center for Great Neighborhoods of Covington

The Center for Great Neighborhoods of Covington will use its Urban Revitalization grant for two purposes. First, the funding will allow the organization to offer virtual support to local chefs, many of whom completed the Chef Fellowship program. The fellowship program was launched in 2016 to support local residents who are passionate about sharing their food creations but lack the money, language, connections and more to make their dreams come to life. The virtual support will help these individuals and other food entrepreneurs navigate the realities of operating food-based businesses during the pandemic.

The second focus of the Duke Energy grant is predevelopment work associated with the creation of a shared retail and commercial bakery retail space along Covingtons Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. commercial corridor. This future community asset will serve the broader neighborhood and provide an affordable space for local bakers looking to start their own businesses.

Avondale Development Corp.

The planned Avondale Leadership Development Center of Excellence will be a high-tech, multipurpose education and training facility serving as a hub for community members and the growth of next-generation leaders. Avondale Development Corp. will use its grant money for a variety of predevelopment work associated with transforming the 1.2 acres of vacant land in the heart of the Avondale community.

Among other amenities, the Avondale Leadership Development Center of Excellence will offer affordable office space for local small businesses; multipurpose space for community events, programs and groups; a 400-seat auditorium for major community forums and meetings of nonprofit organizations; and an industrial kitchen that will serve as a soup kitchen for community members, as well as a facility for restaurateurs.

College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corp.

Just a stones throw from recent Urban Revitalization grantees Tortilleria Garcia and Kiki, the Ruth Ellen Building at 5904 Hamilton Ave. in College Hills mid-business district is primed for a new beginning. The College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corp. was awarded a grant to begin restoring the buildings historic integrity including the removal of a deteriorating facade that was added about 60 years ago.

The grant dollars will be put toward developing architecture and construction drawings, both of which will qualify the project for the Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit program a requisite to ensure the projects short- and long-term viability. Once the Ruth Ellen Building is restored, it will feature 11 housing units capable of housing more than 20 residents who will add to the liveliness and strength of the College Hill community.

Hamilton County Development Corp.

The Hamilton County Development Corp. will apply its Duke Energy grant dollars toward the creation of an assistance program that aims to help small businesses, especially those owned or led by minorities and women, that have been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This support includes helping businesses navigate the various state and local programs and relief packages available; guidance related to cash flow, staffing, marketing, accounting, supply chain and more; and expert advice on planning for the post-pandemic recovery period and the expected longer-term shift in consumer behaviors.

Mt. Airy Community Urban Redevelopment Enterprise (CURE)

The Mt. Airy CURE is in the midst of facilitating the revitalization of the Mt. Airy business district and surrounding neighborhood, which is located in and around Colerain Avenue in northwest Cincinnati. The organization will use its grant to create conceptual renderings of its business district and commercial properties that will be used to build interest and grow momentum among developers, businesses looking to set up shop in the area and other stakeholders.

Robert ONeal Multicultural Arts Center

Cincinnatis West End neighborhood has a rich history, and Toilynn ONeal Turner intends to preserve and build upon it with the creation of the Robert ONeal Multicultural Arts Center. Named for Toilynns father, a famed Cincinnati artist and civic activist who passed away in 2018, the center will be a modern, professional-grade facility that will celebrate the works of local African American and multicultural artists. It will also serve as a multipurpose hub that houses a marketing agency, co-working studios for creatives of color, and street-level retail and event space that will host national and local performances, conferences and meetings.

The grant will fund complex architectural and engineering plans for the complete restoration and expansion of a historic, yet vacant and dilapidated, West End property that will be home to the Robert ONeal Multicultural Arts Center. The award will also be put toward the creation of renderings and other graphics and presentation materials to support the centers ongoing marketing and fundraising efforts.

Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky

Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, provides electric service to about 870,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in a 3,000-square-mile service area, and natural gas service to approximately 542,000 customers.

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S. It employs 30,000 people and has an electric generating capacity of 51,000 megawatts through its regulated utilities, and 3,000 megawatts through its nonregulated Duke Energy Renewables unit.

Duke Energy is transforming its customers experience, modernizing the energy grid, generating cleaner energy and expanding natural gas infrastructure to create a smarter energy future for the people and communities it serves. The Electric Utilities and Infrastructure units regulated utilities serve approximately 7.7 million retail electric customers in six states North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The Gas Utilities and Infrastructure unit distributes natural gas to more than 1.6 million customers in five states North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The Duke Energy Renewables unit operates wind and solar generation facilities across the U.S., as well as energy storage and microgrid projects.

Duke Energy was named to Fortunes 2020 Worlds Most Admired Companies list, and Forbes 2019 Americas Best Employers list. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energys illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media contact: Lee Freedman800.559.3853@DE_LeeF

Original post:
Duke Energy awards more than $200000 to Greater Cincinnati ventures that aim to spark redevelopment, help small businesses - Duke Energy News Center

Mortenson Announces Leadership Promotions in Denver

Aaron Calhoon

Jed Sluyter

Mortenson, a top-20 U.S. builder, developer and energy and engineering services provider, announced the leadership promotions of Aaron Calhoon and Jed Sluyter on its Denver team.

Our people are our greatest competitive differentiator at Mortenson, and its always our goal to create the kind of workplace where team members are motivated to grow and succeed with us, said Gene Hodge, vice president and general manager at Mortenson. Aaron and Jed have consistently demonstrated their leadership dexterity on complex projects, and we look forward to seeing what theyre able to accomplish for our clients in this new capacity.

Calhoon has been promoted to project executive and will work closely with Mortenson vice president of operations, William Gregor, to oversee local operations for the company. He was most recently on a two-year assignment in Las Vegas, Nevada, working on the Allegiant Stadium project with Mortensons Sports and Entertainment Group.

Since joining the company in 2008, Calhoon has been responsible for providing overall leadership on large or complex projects, such as Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center, Saint Joseph Hospital and the University of Colorados Visual Arts Complex.

Sluyter has been promoted to field operations manager. Sluyter will focus on making sure each Mortenson project is set up for success in the Preconstruction and Design Phase by supporting project planning, estimating, and scheduling. This focus will then carry forward into supporting jobsite teams and construction activities to ensure positive project outcomes.

Sluyter started his career with Mortenson in 2001 with the companys Seattle office and spent time in the Portland office before moving to Denver in 2013. Since joining the Denver office, Sluyter has successfully helped lead the Colorado Judicial Center, Westin DIA, and Gaylord Rockies projects before most recently taking on the role of general superintendent for the Denver office a role in which he consistently excelled in demonstrating a team-first approach. As Field Operations Manager, Sluyter will continue to pursue operational excellence on projects through expert planning, organization and evaluation of Mortenson job sites. Sluyter earned his bachelors degree in construction management from Central Washington University.

Atlas Real Estate Hires Vincent Deorio as Vice President of Corporate Development

VincentDeorio

Atlas Real Estate, a full-service real estate company specializing ininvestment brokerage, property management and institutional acquisition, welcomes VincentDeorio as vice president of corporate development.

Deorio joins the Atlas team to fuel the continued growth of the company. He has extensiveexperience in acquisitions and development, market expansion and fundraising, with a proventrack record in leading the growth of firms backed by both private equity and venture capital. Hehas deployed in excess of $1b across multiple markets and asset classes, for both institutional andprivate capital partners.

This is a tremendous opportunity to lead the growth of an exciting organization, said Deorio. Imincredibly honored to join the team at Atlas and to drive the expansion of both our institutionalsingle-family rental acquisition and property management business lines.

Deorio is a resourceful and talented real estate professional. Prior to Atlas, Deorio held the role of vice president of corporate development at Mynd Property Management in Oakland, California. Inthat role, he led all M&A activity, successfully closing 18 acquisitions in 16 markets and acceleratingthe company from 400 units under management to approximately 10,000 units, with over $92.5Min funding and 375 team members. Deorio played an integral role in helping Mynd achieve the 2020San Francisco Business Times fastest growing private company award.

Adding Vincent to the Atlas Executive Team is catalytic for the growth trajectory of the company,said Tony Julianelle, CEO of Atlas Real Estate. Vincent has an incredibly impressive track-record.His unique background adds a depth to our team that will play an integral part in rapidly expandingour business in the years to come.

MVE + Partners Appoints New Principal, Director of Business Development

Richard Flierl

MVE + Partners (MVE), a leading architecture, planning, interior design and urban design firm, recently announced the addition of Richard Flierl, principal and director of business development in Colorado, to its executive leadership team. An industry veteran with a wide range of experience collaborating with architects, landscape architects, urban designers and business development experts and deep roots in the region Flierl will help establish MVEs Denver-based studio with a goal of expanding the firms presence and portfolio in Colorado and neighboring regions.

Drawing on his experience in creating and expanding design studios nationally, Flierl will help shape the direction, strategy and culture of MVEs growing presence in Colorado. In this role, he will manage and nurture the firms existing relationships with local and national developers, contractors, consultant groups and industry leaders to build the firms regional talent base while cultivating new partnerships.

With over three decades of industry experience, an aptitude in strategic market expansion and a deep understanding of our mission and vision, Flierl is well-poised to successfully establish our new Denver-based studio, said Matt McLarand, president, MVE. While weve always had work in the Rocky Mountain region, expansion in this market is key now more than ever as millennials and remote workers relocate to the region and drive population growth.

Flierl will help MVE grow its portfolio across numerous project development types, including urban infill, commercial, residential and mixed-use, master planning and suburban redevelopment. Transit-oriented developments, an area of expertise for both Flierl and MVE, will also be a key focus of the new studio as demand for more vibrant, walkable and connected communities in Colorado is on the rise.

Im honored to join MVEs leadership team and help guide the firm in expanding its footprint in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region, said Flierl. My diverse industry background and keen understanding of the local development market coupled with MVEs 45-year legacy of imaging award-winning places will allow us to accomplish great things in Colorado and beyond.

KEPHART Announces New Principal

Nicole Williams

KEPHART community :: planning :: architecture, a leader in residentialarchitectural design and land planning, is pleased to announce the promotion of Nicole Williams to principal.This promotion recognizes the outstanding leadership and insight Nicole provides the KEPHART team andthe contributions she has made to the culture of the firm.

As a licensed architect and KEPHARTs Director of Contract Administration and Quality Control, Nicolesfocus is on ensuring that the construction documents KEPHART produces are of the highest quality, inaddition to assuring clients have a thoughtful experience during the construction phase of their projects.During her seven-year tenure with the firm, she has become an exemplary leader, sharing her extensiveknowledge of construction and the building industry.

Nicole possesses the unique ability to see a project through the eyes of an architect, developer andcontractor and merge those visions. Her skill and passion for sharing this expertise and developing our staffhave been instrumental in our continued success, said Bryce Hall Principal and President of KEPHART.

In addition to Bryce Hall, Nicole will join seven existing principals on KEPHARTs leadership team.

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