Developing is tough!

As they say, if it was easy, everyone would do it.  Our goal, as a firm, is to ultimately develop our own projects.  There are many reasons for this decision, but recently, we bought a property and began the process of developing it.  We created pro-formas, designed it, negotiated leases, worked with the city for permitting and the contractor on pricing.  As the title describes, it is extremely difficult.  Mentally, physically and financially.  However, there is an inherent advantage for architects to evolve into developers.  Our ability to constantly design during the entire process puts us ahead of other developers.  It saves money and/or helps to resolve the financial pro-forma, in real time.  There’s no need to call your architect and then wait for their response.  We can do it on the fly which is invaluable.  The only thing they don’t tell before you begin your venture is … developing is tough!