About Cristian
I got a MD in Architecture (2006) in Chile. Currently I am carrying out a PhD in Urban Studies at UCL (2012-2016)

The idea:
In addition to the most well-known factors of successful investments for developing properties (connectivity, proximity to services, diversity, good quality public spaces and others) there are two new attractors for keeping investors interested on properties: supporting and flexibility, but now from a different viewpoint.
If there is a suitable property for creating new neighbourhoods, investors would like to take the risk. However and as soon as the project is finished, investors have to look at for other different sites for new opportunities. It means that although the former investment was successful now it does not have another possible future;i.e. it is now 'past'. So, the interest is also forced to be finished.
But what happens if we come back to the successful project and find a new chance to re-charge the investment? The place was proved as a good location, services are functioning, more people are interested for living there, local council still needs to accommodate more people, participation processes were well guided and the like. So, finally the risk is less high because of the current positive externalities, the increased know-how and a new investment could be supported (in part) by the first project.
To open this chance and keep investors interested in properties, it needs two important things:
1.- Just in case the investment was successful and if there is not historical heritage or other constraints, a possible second stage could be opened. Thus, a considerable part of buildings, services and infrastructure in the first stage need to be reinforced to support an extension (properly agreed). In this case, investors should consider an 'extra-charge' for the first stage. But if in case they decide not to go ahead with the second one, the public sector returns this extra-charge to the investors and now the chance pass to the public sector. This is the 'support' from the public sector for keeping investors interesting on a possible second chance into the same place.
2.- The second condition is 'flexibility'. If the first stage was successful and it can support a second one, so, it needs 'flexibility' to increase densities a bit more and to use the infrastructural support considered on the first stage: new towers, a couple of new buildings per area or/and an extension of services could be another chance to re-invest applying the accumulated know-how in terms of process in a secure context of investment.
It is a new chance also suitable for correcting previous issues and for getting involved again into a new investment process based on a successful first stage. If there is not a second stage because business was only well finished (but not strongly enough) so, the project is over and every actor achieved their goals; but if there was a more than successful investment, if the demand is still alive and the place can resist a second part, so, there could be another future for the same well-know successful place. If the investors have this chance, they will keep the interest in properties because there is not only one possible future but also another one in case everything is going well. This is the 'management normative bonus' as another way to open the future again because of a successful experience.
Featured articles and news
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.