Hal Shapiro, a developer specializing in small-scale mixed-use projects in Kansas City, shares his insights on the importance of community in urban development. He discusses the unique challenges of building smaller residential spaces, like his work on the Interurban Lofts, and emphasizes the need for intentional design to foster connections among residents. Hal also reflects on his experiences at development conferences, highlighting the value of intimate gatherings for networking and mentorship in the industry.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Finding His Tribe
Hal Shapiro attended his first small development conference after his first mixed-use project got approved.
He felt connected to the people and projects, unlike larger conferences where he felt lost.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Small Conference Value
Hal Shapiro has attended numerous small development conferences.
He values the connections and take-home value compared to larger conferences.
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Early Development Interest
Hal Shapiro's interest in development was sparked by a Houston skyscraper tour.
He pursued mortgage banking before returning to the family business.
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Building Small is a guide for small-scale developers, offering insights and strategies for navigating the complexities of smaller projects. It emphasizes community building and creating walkable environments. The book covers various aspects of development, from financing and design to construction and management. It provides practical advice and real-world examples to help aspiring developers succeed. The book is highly regarded within the small-scale development community for its practical approach and focus on community engagement.
In the urbanism and planning world, we talk a lot about Missing Middle Housing. Rightfully so, since it’s a critical element that helps a community succeed and provide the total range of housing options. And, it’s historically what we used to build a LOT of, before the advent of zoning and modern development codes.
Hal Shapiro of Real Property Group in Overland Park, KS, talks with us about his unique niche and take on working in this field. Hal started on the lending side of the equation, and eventually worked his way into property ownership and development. But his projects are something different than what we talk about with Missing Middle Housing. Hal has worked on projects somewhat larger than the historic four and six and twelve-plexes we talk about so much. But he’s also much smaller than the big boys.
Hal and I had a chance to reconnect at the most recent Small Scale Developer Forum, hosted by Jim Heid. I interviewed Jim recently on the podcast as well. Hal has been very involved in the Forums for several years, and is an enthusiastic supporter of entrpreneurship generally. Hal offers some great tips in this for working at a unique scale, that hardly anyone else pursues. For anyone that’s got a bit of experience in the development world, and loves walkable places, this is definitely worth a listen.
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Music notes: all songs by low standards, ca. 2010. Videos here. If you’d like a CD for low standards, message me and you can have one for only $5.
The Messy City Podcast