Urban Forecast

In this episode of Urban Forecast, we delve into the dynamic intersection of artificial intelligence and architecture with guest Allister Lewis. A former architect turned AI enthusiast, Allister shares insights into the evolving landscape of AI tools within the construction industry. The conversation explores:The likely significant impact of AI on the architecture and construction industries, particularly in generative design.The experimentation phase expected over the next three years, and how the industry will transform over the next 5-10 yearsThe potential for AI to unleash Offsite ConstructionThe potential for AI to create efficiency and redundancy in the same measure.The episode concludes with a sneak peek into Allister's startup, which aims to create a comprehensive marketplace for architecture, engineering, and construction software, promising to revolutionise the way professionals discover, test, and adopt these innovative solutions.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the evolving relationship between AI and the future of architecture and construction.

How can we design and build cities that will design a fairer future : Panel debate recorded at the Labour Party Conference 2023 with Cllr Bella Sankey, Cllr Kieron Williams, Marvin Rees, Cllr Krupa Sheth, Cllr Mete Coban and Jon Ackroyd.Welcome to a very special episode of the Urban Forecast Podcast! Recorded at our exclusive Breakfast Club Briefing, this episode features an impressive lineup of guest speakers who are leading the way in shaping the future of urban development. We had the honour of hosting Cllr Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council; Cllr Kieron Williams, Leader of Southwark Council; Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol City; Cllr Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure, and Climate Action, LB Brent; Cllr Mete Coban MBE, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, LB Hackney; and Jon Ackroyd, an award-winning Chartered Architect and Co-founder of Ackroyd Lowrie. Guiding our discussion as the event's chair is Oliver Lowrie, an Architect and Co-founder of Ackroyd Lowrie.In this episode, our panel of distinguished speakers engaged in thought-provoking discussions and provided expert insights into designing cities that prioritise fairness, inclusivity, and equity for all. We explore innovative approaches, policies, and strategies that can transform our urban spaces into vibrant, inclusive environments, leaving no one behind.

In this episode of the Urban Forecast Podcast, we sat down with Andrew Teacher, founder of Blackstock Consulting and currently the Managing Director for real estate in ESG at Montfort, whose life story is a testament to the pursuit of creativity and resilience.We begin by revisiting Andrew's school days, where he and his friends ventured into the world of publishing, creating a magazine provocatively named "Balls." Their enthusiasm led them to cover diverse topics, from sports to music, and even secure press passes to major sporting events, igniting Andrew's passion for photography as well as journalism. However, life took an unforeseen turn when he faced a vision impairment, prompting him to use his talent for journalism and narrative within the Property Industry. Andrew takes us through the founding of Blackstock, from its early startup days to its acquisition last year by Montfort, and the insights he has gained into the property industry along the way.Tune in to this episode of the Urban Forecast Podcast for a tale of determination, reinvention, and the enduring power of passion.

In this episode of the Urban Forecast Podcast,  we delve into the dynamic landscape of the macro economy behind the UK housing market and its impact on the future of cities. In a post-pandemic world, the economy has seen a seismic shift, influenced by unprecedented government interventions and unique inflationary pressures. Join us as we explore what has led to the economic position we are in today, what the means for the housing market now and how those trends are going to change over the next 3-5 years.

Tenant demand is at an all-time high in the UK, and this is driving the rapid growth of the Built-to Rent Sector. On this episode, we sat down with Polly Simpson, Head of Multifamily Development at Savills London, who has been fully immersed in this emerging sector since its inception ten years ago. We discuss the underlying market forces that are driving the growth of the sector, what is required to deliver a successful BTR scheme, and how the sector is faring in these highly challenging times for the whole UK property market.

Join Jason Boyle, an architect with over 23 years of experience at Seller Limited and a seasoned professional in the nuclear industry, as he takes you on a journey through the world of architecture.Get ready to dive deep into the human side of the profession, as Jason fearlessly addresses the tough issues that architects grapple with every day – from burnout and undervaluation to the challenges of architectural education. With a passion for mentorship, Jason founded the Global Architect Alliance, offering online mentoring to aspiring architects worldwide. He's on a mission to reshape architectural education, advocating for apprenticeship-style learning and tackling the industry's most pressing challenges head-on. Tune in as he shares insights, stories, and solutions to create a healthier, happier architecture profession.And in a change to the usual format, Jason interviews the host Oliver!

In this episode of the Urban Forecast Podcast, we deep dive into the co-living sector with Paul Wellman and James Hanmer, both experts in this brand-new, but rapidly expanding sector. We explore how big the demand for the product is, the challenges that exist for those delivering and funding it, and the different types of products that are emerging to meet this demand.

Get ready for an exhilarating episode, where we go behind the scenes of UKREiiF, the UK’S fastest-growing and most disruptive property sector event.We sat down with Matt Christie, Director External Relations and Content at UKREiiF, to discuss the layers of strategies aimed at crafting a program of activities that drive the success of UKREiiF. We delve into how they’ve made UKREiiF more accessible, inviting broader participation and enabling attendees to voice their concerns directly to decision-makers...and how this is changing the landscape of property events through its success. Their strategy extends to engaging young and hard-to-reach individuals in the built environment, offering them a platform, stimulating future decision-making.

In the latest episode of Urban Forecast, Ashley Perry, Investment Director at Apache Capital, joins us. We delve into many topics, from insights gained at a ULI UK event to the broad spectrum of build-to-rent operators and their strategic development processes. We examine the transformation of regional cities and unused sites into thriving communities, discuss the rental market dynamics in light of tax reforms, and foresee the future of the build-to-rent sector, including growth trajectories and the transition to long-term ownership.

In the latest episode of Urban Forecast, we were joined by Jonathan Director of Inward Investment & Higher Education Academic Relationships at London Borough of Waltham Forest.In this episode, we cover Jonathan’s background working within a number of the former New Towns, and focus on the work Jonathan is currently engaged in; rapidly transforming the vibrant borough of Waltham Forest.In this conversation, we cover the conversion of iconic landmarks into lively community centres, the inspiring collaborations that have moulded the borough, and Waltham Forest's ambitious plans, which emphasises a net-zero carbon future.