Erik Kasper, AIA

Here is an article from the Herald where I am quoted: #LiveLocalAct #architectinMiami #UnitedArchitects #rezoningMiamiBeach #rezoningMiami

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Column: Accelerating Tampa Bay's transformation with key projects Tampa Bay is on the verge of a remarkable transformation. With major projects like airport expansions, mixed-use developments, new stadiums and enhanced infrastructure, our region is poised for a growth spurt unlike anything we've seen in recent years. The successful execution of these projects has the potential to reshape our economy, attract new businesses and improve the quality of life for everyone in our community. However, if we don't prioritize the timely completion of these developments, we risk missing out on these opportunities. Local elected officials must act swiftly to ensure these projects move forward without unnecessary delays. https://lnkd.in/etHxnQAV

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Converting a 116-unit hotel to an apartment complex may seem like a straightforward project, that is, until you get behind the walls and uncover all the unique challenges. For Lenox Cove Apartment Homes in Jacksonville, we had to transform four structures in total, three apartment buildings and one clubhouse. An obstacle emerged when we noticed there was one circuit breaker for every three hotel rooms — for an apartment complex, we would need to install one feed for every unit. The complex also changed ownership during construction, a curveball that fortunately didn’t hinder the work. All in all, this project showcased the power of value engineering, as we prioritized the most crucial modifications while ensuring everything was up to code. For a transformation of this scope, we were able to overcome adversity on a large scale. It was a real statement piece for J. Lane Construction, a project that allowed us to live up to the hype. https://linktw.in/lhUuAs #commercialconstruction #buildingconversion #valueengineering

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A few Saturday morning observations and thoughts to share with all you business leaders… Today, I want to address a pressing issue that has been plaguing our world:  shocking displays of stupidity. Yesterday I had to get a Background Check for my Professional Architectural License Renewal in Puerto Rico.   When I arrived at the County Sherriff’s Office, I was greeted with this sign, “ID’s or Money are NOT Accepted from Undergarments”.   It was shocking, and frankly unbelievably humorous, that this sign was even posted.  Then it got better.  When I was greeted by on older and clearly experienced Sheriff Deputy to be fingerprinted, he asked where this background check was to be sent, and I told him, “Puerto Rico”, to which he replied, “Well, we can’t send these out of the Country!”   At this point, I thought it appropriate to offer an unsolicited civics lesson of the US Territories and Possessions, and that fact that Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, the District of Columbia, and approximately 6 other possessions are in some way connected to the United States.   I also felt compelled to tell the Deputy that many of them actually vote in our elections.   To which he simply replied, “Didn’t know that, put your fingers on the scanner sir.” We all have witnessed mind-boggling instances where critical thinking seems to have taken a backseat.  But fret not, my friends, for there is hope! It's time we come together to address this issue head-on and work towards a more enlightened future. Firstly, let's understand that stupidity is not an innate characteristic of individuals, but rather a consequence of various factors. It can result from a lack of education, misinformation, cognitive biases, or even the echo chambers created by social media. Identifying and acknowledging these roots is key to devising effective solutions. Remember, change starts with us as business leaders. By taking action and advocating for a more intellectually enlightened world, we can combat shocking stupidity and pave the way for a brighter future. Together, let's prioritize education, critical thinking, and open dialogue, ensuring that knowledge triumphs over ignorance. And remember, PLEASE do NOT keep your ID’s or Money in your undergarments.   #KnowledgeIsPower #CriticalThinking #EducationMatters #Enlightenment CR architecture + design

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27th Ave Hollandpark Ecoresidences LLC plans to leverage Florida's Live Local Act to build a six-tower, 3,233-unit project in Miami’s West Little River, making it the largest residential development proposed under the new affordable housing law. The project, designed by Arquitectonica and dubbed Holland Park, will include two nine-level parking garages with 4,249 spaces, over 57,000 square feet of retail space, and a freestanding single-story amenities building. The development will replace 140 single-story residences, a church, a maintenance shop, and a one-story office building. Taking advantage of the Live Local Act- this law allows developers to bypass local zoning restrictions in exchange for setting aside at least 40% of units as workforce housing. It also caps rents for those units at 120% of the area median income, which would allow a studio apartment to be rented for $2,385 per month. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eVp6hNnv

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Building Envelope Costs in Florida   Building a home in Florida comes with unique considerations. In this episode of Build Better Homes, we are joined by my good friend Nate MacIntyre(@n.macintyre on IG) whom I’ve worked with for years and is expert on building envelope and construction defect we explore the impact of building codes on: * The Building Envelope. Discover the crucial role of the building envelope in Florida construction and its impact on overall cost. * Balancing Regulations & Costs. Learn how strict codes can drive expenses towards the building envelope, sometimes necessitating adjustments elsewhere. * Making Informed Decisions. Understand the trade-offs between code compliance, material selection, and affordability. * Building Smart in Florida. Explore strategies for navigating Florida’s building regulations while staying within budget and creating a durable, energy-efficient home.   Join us as we delve into the world of Florida construction codes and empower you to make informed choices for your dream home.   #buildbetterhomes #FLbuildingcodes #buildingenvelope #constructioncosts #energyefficientflorida #buildingregulations #smartchoices #FLhomebuilding #durablehomes #smartbuilding #homeownershipgoals

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The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is considering expanding and upgrading the Lee County rest stop on I-75, located just South of Fort Meyers. To this end, WGI - an engineering, land surveying, and professional services firm - is conducting a feasibility study that covers a wide range of area renovations and expanded facilities. As part of this study, ecoPreserve's Peter Westlake has documented ways to configure an Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure (EVCI) at the rest stop. Pete's observations and recommendations included shore power locations for trucks and charger locations for trucks, buses, and cars. #evci #transportation #sustainability

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☀️🌴 At the Bisnow The Future of COCONUT GROVE AND CORAL GABLES: Community Preservation, Current Trends, and Office Development event. "Business Development is the pursuit of possibilities, where foresight and adaptability converge to turn challenges into catalysts for growth." Representing: Florida Lemark Corporation 🏗️ #BusinessDevelopment #RealEstate #Bisnow #Developer #Development #BusinessDeveloper #CoralGables #CoconutGrove #RealEstateDevelopment #Networking

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Mid-2023 a new Flood map for Miami-Dade County affected most new ground-up construction projects as the minimum elevation of the first level was required to be higher than what the zoning code said, making the maximum height practically lower. UNTIL NOW! And Believe it or not, they made a decision that makes sense! With this new code, we now have to figure out not one but three potential base elevations to measure the maximum height of our projects. Want to know more about it? Click on the reel below.

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🌟 Exciting Opportunity for Construction Students in Florida! 🌟 We are thrilled to introduce the IIBEC Florida 2024 Scholarship Program, aimed at supporting students pursuing construction-related degrees in Florida. This scholarship is designed to foster education and help cultivate future professionals in the construction industry. Who Can Apply? Florida residents enrolled in construction-related trade or degree programs with at least one term remaining. Students committed to a career in construction and eager to explore the impact of technology like AI on sustainability in the industry. Scholarship Details: 🏆 Awards range from $1,500 to $3,000. 📅 Application Deadline: June 30th. Winners announced by August 1st, with funds disbursed by August 15th. Application Requirements: -Two professor references. -Unofficial transcripts. -A face-to-face panel interview for finalists. An essay on leveraging AI in roofing for enhanced sustainability. This is a non-renewable scholarship with the opportunity to reapply annually. For more details on how to apply, please refer to the flyer attached. Let’s help support the next generation of construction professionals! Please share this post with potential candidates or anyone in your network who could benefit from this scholarship. Together, we can help build a brighter future. #ConstructionEducation #ScholarshipOpportunity #FutureBuilders #SustainabilityInConstruction #IIBECFlorida

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🌟 Exciting Opportunity for Construction Students in Florida! 🌟 We are thrilled to introduce the IIBEC Florida 2024 Scholarship Program, aimed at supporting students pursuing construction-related degrees in Florida. This scholarship is designed to foster education and help cultivate future professionals in the construction industry. Who Can Apply? Florida residents enrolled in construction-related trade or degree programs with at least one term remaining. Students committed to a career in construction and eager to explore the impact of technology like AI on sustainability in the industry. Scholarship Details: 🏆 Awards range from $1,500 to $3,000. 📅 Application Deadline: June 30th. Winners announced by August 1st, with funds disbursed by August 15th. Application Requirements: Two professor references. Unofficial transcripts. A face-to-face panel interview for finalists. An essay on leveraging AI in roofing for enhanced sustainability. This is a non-renewable scholarship with the opportunity to reapply annually. For more details on how to apply, please refer to the flyer attached [Link to flyer]. Let’s help support the next generation of construction professionals! Please share this post with potential candidates or anyone in your network who could benefit from this scholarship. Together, we can help build a brighter future. #ConstructionEducation #ScholarshipOpportunity #FutureBuilders #SustainabilityInConstruction #IIBECFlorida

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Are you an architectural firm with projects in the rendering phase or early stages of construction that you’d like to showcase? The Daily Record will feature architectural renderings of Northeast Florida projects in the works in our July 11 issue. Here's how to submit your renderings and information. #architects #architecture #renderings #businessnews #readitherefirst #subscribe

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