Kirk Van Cleave

Before SB-684, we were designing what we’ve called ‘Urban Subdivisions’ for over a decade in LA and the Bay. In Los Angeles and Oakland there have been small lot subdivision regulations in place for some time, and in other locations we have used site condos to achieve similar results. Subdivisions are preferable as the land is sold fee simple. Homeowners like it because they own the dirt their house sits on, which makes it more valuable - so developers prefer it as well. (This effectively encourages housing production.) Oakland is currently doing away with its mini-lot provision, but new state law is going to bring it back to Oakland and every other city in California in the near future. SB-684 will allow parcels as small as 600sf and will not allow “minimum requirement on the size, width, depth, or dimensions of an individual parcel”. (That’s good news for housing production.) This home is one in a two parcel mini-lot subdivision in Oakland. A second story was added to the house along with a new foundation and major interior reconfiguration, so not much of the existing was left in the end. The second house was ground up construction at the rear of the lot. Each home was ~2000sf with 3br and 2.5ba. The lot was originally purchased for ~750k (375/door) with the existing home in 2019. The new homes were built for ~300/sf, or ~600k each. Soft costs were ~100k/unit. All in cost ~2.1M, with each home selling at ~1.5M (total ~3M) in 2023

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"Cataldo said the July 1 code amendment is "minimal enough" that it will likely be an easy and quick issue to address, even for those who are surprised by it. The analysis is very close to the LEED analysis for embodied carbon, Cataldo said, so if a consultant is needed to complete the paperwork, it will likely be easy to find one that can do it." I wouldn't call this "minimal". Your biggest hitter in many buildings will be concrete, and reducing embodied carbon in concrete is going to require new mixes, with different structural properties, different cure times. My favorite local engineers are on it, but it is going to be a vetting point in engineer selection. You've also got your sustainability consultants, and while it may be "very close to LEED", it's still a different software being used for analysis. And gosh I hope this doesn't add a lot of time to plan check... So we're changing cost, schedule, consultant selection... doable, sure, but not "minimal".

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Blain, Matthew, and Stephen D. Wong. 2024. “Integration of Resilient and Complete Streets in Geometric and Roadway Design Guides.” Findings, April. This research explores the state of resilience and Complete Streets topics in current geometric and roadway design guides in North America. We conducted a content analysis of twenty-two provincial, state, and general design guides, and a topical examination of the relationship of Complete Streets elements to resilience goals. While Complete Streets topics are well integrated into guides, resilience topics are rarely present, leading to possible missed opportunities to achieve co-benefits or manage tensions. Implications from this research can begin discussions that embed safety and resilience into roadway design that also furthers multi-modal and sustainable transportation. https://lnkd.in/gV7qvZte.

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As a board member for Passive House California, I helped man the booth yesterday (along with Tracy Blair, Christian Kienapfel & Cyril Petit) at the USGBC held at The Beehive by SoLa. I appreciated that they didn't use single use cups/plates, offering water filling stations and recycling bins throughout. There were many great vendors and non-profits that I'll be studying up on in the coming weeks. We got the word out about PH standards. 1. Climate specific insulation (if you don't think we need insulation in California, I'll share my own experience on it) 2. Thermal bridge free construction  3. Airtight enclosure (which also means water and smoke tight) 4. High performance windows/doors 5. Hygienic ventilation with heat recovery and no recirculation of air (especially great for those with allergies) #interiordesigner #passivehousestandard  #greenbuilding #greenmeanshealthier #walkthetalk

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There is a stunning lack of Traditional Neighborhood Developments and stunning is also the presistent proliferation of track subdivisions, more so in Arizona probably than anywhere esle. The question is why? This CNU article asks and tries to answer this specific question: "If urbanists, academics, and planners agree that New Urbanism and Traditional Neighborhood Developments (TNDs) are the best form of residential development, why are so few projects actually being built? According to the article, longer return horizons may be the main reason: "This method of development lends itself to projects with a lifetime of 10 or more years. It does not lend itself well to builders who look at profits quarterly or annually with project lifetimes of 1-5 years. TNDs can’t compete with the efficiency of tract development." There is hope though. The author recommends that: "with longer return horizons, the initial investment# can compete and even surpass the returns of tract neighborhoods as the developer begins to sell their lots and/or homes for a premium. ...Due to increased upfront costs, a slower regulatory process, and longer return horizons, developers need to find patient equity partners that are vision-aligned as to not put artificial pressure on the project that could result in sacrificing long-term growth for short-term gains." Here are more details in the article: #subdivisions #mainstreet #suburbia #downtown #newurbanism #cnu #smartgrowth #15minutecity

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The complexity of interwoven, interdependent Increments of OSHPD projects involves a diverse range of management tools from 3D/4D/5D BIM to online platforms to VR/AR to the classic, simple paper and white board. At UCSF Health Helen Diller Hospital, Increment 6: Prefab Bath Pods is in Prototype Phase while SMR (Site Make Ready), HMR (Hospital Make Ready) and Increment 1: Shoring are in full Construction Administration. Increment 2: Foundations in final approvals. Increment 3: Superstructure / Secondary Steel is in Initial OSHPD review. Increment 4: Enclosure Façade and Increment 5: Interiors / MEP are in Initial Review and Detailing. Circling back to Increment 6: Prefab Bath Pods… UCSF Health UCSF Real Estate #UCSF #leanipd #PrefabBathPods #OSHPD

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As transportation planners, removing physical barriers to walkability is at the core of our work—influencing infrastructure, transit, and the built environment to support pedestrians. But what about other factors that influence safety in the public realm? Associate Principal Meghan Skornia, AICP talks about a number of these issues in our latest thought piece, The Social Indicators of Walkability. Read it here: https://lnkd.in/gGSE9mzx

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Especially when it comes to the cost of working with an architect or structural designer in locations like Malibu and Maui, there’s a common misconception that hiring a top contractor or architecture firm is a waste of money. The reality is that working with a reputable architecture firm can actually save you money in the long run. Here’s how. 👉 https://lttr.ai/ASX48

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New RFP is out to document the significant contribution of Black Architects to the built environment of #washingtondc! Response deadline is August 9th. #preservedc #RFP #architecturalhistory #architecture #history #blackarchitects #builtenvironment

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Season 17 of AIA California's arcCA DIGEST takes up the first of four topics drawn from the AIA California Strategic Plan: Adaptive Reuse, Building Decarbonization, Housing, and The Future of the Profession. Interestingly (but perhaps not surprisingly), articles in this season’s lineup also address building decarbonization and housing, as adaptive reuse is a potent strategy for both. Timely reading given the new embodied carbon provisions in CalGreen effective TODAY! #arcCAdigest #adaptivereuse #decarbonization #embodiedcarbon #housing

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Looking to assess embodied carbon on your next building project? Here are over 20 tools (many of which are free). https://lnkd.in/gvpB7BXJ

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🐝 Cross-Pollination: A Collaborative Effort by COAA-CA and LCI NorCal! 🚧 Why are two volunteer organizations coming together? Because great ideas thrive on collaboration! COAA-CA and LCI NorCal are joining forces to revolutionize design and construction, integrating lean principles and innovative solutions to create vibrant, sustainable communities. A cross-pollination of ideas pushes the boundaries of what's possible in the built environment. 🌟 The COAA California Chapter (Construction Owners Association of America) is part of a national organization of public and private owners who manage facilities development and capital improvement projects. COAA supports Owners' success in the design and construction of buildings and facilities through education, information, and collaboration. The Lean Construction Institute | Northern CA Community of Practice community serves Lean practitioners from the Bay Area to the Central Valley via monthly events of learning and networking. For COAA-CA (San Diego), check out how UC San Diego is pioneering new standards in sustainable, integrated campus design. When: 📅 Thursday, July 25, 2024 🕒 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (PDT) Why You Shouldn't Miss This: Ridge Walk North isn't just about housing; it's about creating a vibrant, supportive community for students. From cutting-edge academic spaces to dynamic social areas. 🔑 Highlights: - Witness firsthand the innovative living and learning spaces. - Learn how these designs enhance both academic and social experiences. - Get an exclusive peek into the future of campus life. Space is limited for this in-person event, so secure your spot today! 🔗 Register Now Using Link in Comments Below #ConstructionInnovation #LeanConstruction #ProfessionalDevelopment #respectforpeople

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In the heart of Pride Month, I find myself immersed in a sea of thoughts, pondering over the essence of pride and how my role at HDR can serve as a beacon of hope for my LGBTQ+ brethren. HDR, a global titan in the realm of architecture and engineering, is not just about constructing buildings and city infrastructure. We are the architects of society, molding sustainable and inclusive urban landscapes that echo our commitment to social equity, diversity, and safe spaces for all. Architecture, in its truest form, is a reflection of our values, dreams, and shared identity. It’s not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about building bridges of acceptance and equality. The architectural landscape has evolved, embracing inclusive design as a potent weapon against oppression and a catalyst for positive change. Here’s how we, at HDR, can empower our LGBTQ+ communities in the work we do every day: 1. Sanctuaries of Inclusion: Housing is not just about four walls and a roof; it’s about creating a sanctuary where everyone feels at home. Vancouver, a city renowned for its diversity and progressive values, can pioneer in crafting such inclusive spaces. Architects can design homes that transcend functional needs and prioritize inclusivity with features like gender-neutral bathrooms, accessible entrances, and communal spaces. 2. Battling Homelessness: The homelessness crisis in Vancouver is a grim reality, with LGBTQ+ youth bearing the brunt of it. By joining forces with local organizations, architects can design shelters and transitional housing that cater to the unique challenges faced by queer individuals, ensuring safety, dignity, and self-acceptance. 3. Beyond Blueprints: The vibrant LGBTQ+ community of Vancouver is a kaleidoscope of events and advocacy efforts. Architects can actively participate by attending these events, partnering with community organizations, and weaving LGBTQ+ narratives into urban planning discussions. 4. Public Spaces of Acceptance: Public spaces, from parks to community centers, should be a haven for all. Architects can ensure privacy, safety, and visibility by designing spaces that accommodate diverse identities. Thoughtful lighting, seating arrangements, and signage can contribute to a more accepting environment. Remember, architecture is not just about building structures—it’s about sculpting a city’s soul and reflecting its citizens and their values. The Vancouver office has an opportunity to lead by example, creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and respected. If we work together, just imagine the possibilities! #VancouverPride #PrideMonth #HDR #BuildingCommunities

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Art Of Form Architects' Design for Port Washington Police Station. #artofform #planning #architecture #interiordesign #realestate  #conciergedesign #NOUPFRONTCOSTTENANTFITOUTSTUDIES #esg #permitexpediting #proptech #buildingautomation #architects #technology #art #commercialrealestate #facilities #artofformarchitects #notforprofit #correctionalfacilities

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Some good news here. Through advocacy by the AIA and other professional associations, the DoD has increased it's fee limitations for architects from six to ten percent! This is the kind of change that stabilizes and improves conditions for the whole industry. Thank you The American Institute of Architects (AIA) for your ongoing advocacy! #AIA #Advocacy #PublicPolicy

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Very important trend in US transport infrastructure: more rail networks and stations being built and lots of innovation in how they are being financed/funded. In the northeast, the mid west, the south and California-Nevada(the Brightline Trains line from LA to Vegas which Grimshaw are involved with as designers). I've always liked how they go about raising money for infrastructure in Denver and indeed Colorado since I first became aware of Fastrack, a 117 mile rail network for Denver and its satellites. They used a sales tax device to pay the capital costs of the network, with a small tax levied on all purchases - with the income stream then supporting a bond/borrowing so that construction could be forward funded. And Colorado continues to be innovative over how to get incomes streams for public infrastructure of this scale. Their new rail service linking Denver to other cities along Colorado’s Front Range is closer to reality. And it's also being enabled by financial innovation with a new $3-per-day fees on car rentals being identified so as help generate money for the line, which will connect Pueblo, Colorado Springs and Fort Collins to Denver.The 173-mile route would serve a majority of the state’s population. The new revenues come as local officials gear up for a potential ballot measure this Autumn to raise more money to run the service. In my view part of the problem in the UK and indeed Australia is the lack of regional or metro scale governance to enable decentralised income-generation and project promotion - and the centralised, national nature of the systems of sales-tax (VAT in one GST in the other). US cities and regions may have many challenges but they are afforded opportunities to raise their own bonds and finance for infrastructure. Andrew ByrneMark Middleton Andrew Whalley OBE. I went to see Fastrack in Denver on my last visit to the US in later 2017: impressive as a device and as a result.

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📰 Need some weekend reading? AIA California has got you covered! Find candidate questionnaires, details for the AIA Annual Meeting, and a number of letters both in support and opposition of proposed bylaws amendments and resolutions in one place: bit.ly/3V78irm. Read my thoughts on priority issues, the value of design, the economy, member engagement, and the evolution of practice below ⬇

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Interesting article on the benefits of joint ventures. When there is strong cultural alignment the benefits for the project are exponential.

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