The Russian city of Norilsk, located in the Arctic, has the status of the most populous city in this climatic zone in the world. However, the city does not have points of attraction for the international community. The city authorities took care of this issue and announced a competition for the redevelopment of the urban space and functional environment. What will help Norilsk get the title of the global center of the Arctic? Kees Donkers is a leading urban designer in the city of Eindhoven (Netherlands). A person known far beyond the borders of his country. At the scientific-practical conference “Development of the Arctic: nature, city, people”, which took place in Norilsk, he spoke with a sore subject for an industrial city: he told how to turn abandoned factory buildings and non-residential buildings into actual public spaces. Kees Donkers himself is known for the fact that he and his team managed to give a second life to the city of Eindhoven. Earlier the giant Philips left the city. Like Norilsk and many other Russian monocities, Eindhoven was the city of one city-forming company. But in the 1990s, Philips moved production to China, and managing team to Amsterdam. “When the industrialists left, our city became one of the ugliest in Holland,” recalls Kees Donkers. – What is called a crisis happened. It was in the nineties. We lost the industry, but started developing design. And already in 2012 they competed with Helsinki for the title of the world design capital ”. With the support of the Mayor of Eindhoven, it was possible to unite the efforts of the municipality, business, the Technical University and all interested citizens in order to find new ways of developing the city. Under the leadership of Case Donkers, a plan was developed to revitalize the five industrial spaces on which Philips was based. In particular, the project brought together the De Witte Dame (White Lady) lamp factory, the most famous building previously owned by Philips, with the city center. Now the former factory building is a popular and visited place. The Municipal Library, Eindhoven Design Academy and shopping districts are located inside. To finance a large-scale “reboot” of the entire look of Eindhoven, Kees Donkers created a special fund. In 2010, the city authorities stopped subsidizing it, but Donkers continued the business on his own.Eindhoven today has an ultra-modern look. The city, which depended on the one company, has transformed in literally 20 years, turning into a beautiful independent place. On tourist sites, former abandoned buildings are now included in the list of city attractions. At the conference held in Norilsk, another foreign expert, soil scientist Graham Spiers, clearly showed how it is possible to restore nature after anthropogenic destruction. He shared his experience in reclamation of the Canadian city of Sudbury, which is also in many ways similar to Norilsk. The experience of two foreign cities, Eindhoven and Sudbury, is consonant with what Norilsk is already doing, says Maxim Mironov, a representative of the city development organization. “In April, together with the Urbanika Institute for Spatial Planning, we presented the Norilsk master plan. Along with other conclusions and suggestions, the analysis of the situation showed the lack of high-quality closed public spaces. To solve this problem, the agency, with the support of the city and the production company Norilsk Nickel, is working to create an urban public space in the building of the former technical library. The second project is the opening of a modern digital education center. The future “IT-club” will create a basis for solving urgent technological problems of the territory, will contribute to high-quality digital education for children and youth, ”said Maxim Mironov.

Real estate in the UAE has experienced its strongest two years since the early 2000s, with factors such as the global COVID-19 pandemic and low USD interest rates transforming the market. Prices have been rising dramatically and supply has been unable to keep pace with demand. As the vaccine rollout continues and measures such as lockdowns are being eased, prices in the UAE property market will continue to rise; according to Reuters, residential property prices in Dubai rose in April-June 2021 for a second straight quarter. Ryan Mahoney (Dubai, UAE) is the CEO of Better Homes and the CEO and owner of CenCorp, both property-related businesses operating within Dubai. Tourism Dubai is one of the most visited international destinations in the world; therefore, COVID-19 related disruptions to travel impacted the market as it did in other cities around the world. Lockdowns, social distancing and travel restrictions over the past 18 months have inevitably caused a slowdown in tourism. However, as restrictions begin to be lifted and travel becomes a possibility once more, tourists are starting to return to the emirate. This is good news for the hotel industry, which has been operating back up to full capacity since the middle of May 2021. Pent-up demand has resulted in tourism numbers increasing more than expected since the end of lockdown. Many investors are now seeking prime properties at a time when demand is outweighing supply. Business Travelers In 2019 alone, more than 2.3 million people visited Dubai for business purposes. The rise of flexible working, which began as a response to the pandemic, is also potentially good news for the hotel industry. With employees and employers alike recognizing the benefits of remote working, hotels offering business hubs and facilities may find themselves busier than ever before. Short-Term Rental Growth Increased numbers of visitors for both business and leisure purposes are forecast to drive sustainable growth in the short-term rental sector in Dubai. The implementation of new technologies will help to push this growth forward as people emerge from lockdown. Technologies such as online self-check-in and virtual viewings help travelers feel safer as their contact with others is minimized. Increase in First-Time Buyers In the first two months of 2021, first-time buyer sales across the UAE increased by 62% year-on-year. The rental market has also seen an influx of new contracts. While it remains to be seen how the recovery phase post-vaccine will pan out, the signs look promising for the Dubai property market.

As more and more companies offer remote work, and thanks to the advantages offered for new residents by certain countries, many Brits are deciding to leave the United Kingdom. Today, Brits are choosing Spain as their country of residence – attracted by the excellent climate, accessible cost of living and various facilities on offer for their relocation. Spain as a country of residence for Brits Life in the United Kingdom can be very exciting, but also draining. That’s why many Brits are deciding to move to Spain, whether it’s to work from the country or retire in a warmer and more accessible location. As a result of the country’s many kilometres of sunny coastline, great prices when compared to other European countries, and the various cultural advantages it has to offer – such as its delicious cuisine – Spain is a particularly attractive choice. In the last few years, there has been a huge increase in British residents in this country, hoping to improve their quality of life in every way possible – simply by moving. What’s more, various facilities are available to help with this relocation. Spanish residency visa Brits looking to move to this country can opt for the Golden Visa for Spain. This is a permit for foreign nationals looking to enter the country to make a significant capital investment and is valid for residents of the United Kingdom. In these cases, British nationals can apply for a temporary visa or – if applicable – a residency visa for investors, offering some excellent advantages. This residency permit can be obtained by meeting certain requirements and allows applicants to obtain a residency visa to live in the country for at least one year, and authorisation to stay for two years – with the option to renew if the investment made is maintained and at least one trip to Spain has been made during the residency period. Advantages of this excellent change Brits who choose to move to Spain with this visa can enjoy various benefits. The price of living is generally less than in the United Kingdom, which usually implies an improvement in the quality of properties available. With affordable prices, Brits can purchase larger homes in safe locations, with all the social benefits they need and an exceptional climate in which to enjoy the outdoors, all year round. Carrying out the formalities To carry out the formalities and make this change, we recommend turning to experts, who can also help you apply for a resident’s visa. One great choice is My Spain Visa: a team of lawyers specialised in these matters who have helped dozens of Brits to start their new lives in Spain. The company is well acquainted with the necessary protocols for a change of residency – ensuring all documents are in order and offering you the greatest benefits possible – taking the burden of paperwork off the shoulders of interested investors and guaranteeing total peace of mind throughout the process.

Adelaide’s newest apartment development in Whitmore Square, designed by Enzo Caroscio, promises to be a sophisticated addition to the city’s southwest. Called 58 IPARRITYI, the Kaurna name for Whitmore Square, the boutique mixed-use building will sit on the southwest corner and will have 11 residences and a retail and hospitality precinct at the ground level. Designer Enzo Caroscio, known locally for his work on the SAHMRI and Bohem apartment complex, said he took inspiration from the creative architecture of the Labyrinth home of Xavier Corbero and Rome’s Palazzo della Civilta’ Italiana. Caroscio said he wanted to create “highly sculptured and articulated architecture through recessed shadowing and the play of solid versus void”. The building features setback and stepped upper levels, repetitive and varied window openings, with symmetric arched framed loggias that will be transformed throughout the day by the contrast of shadows passing across at the façade. “The composition and creative form of the building creates a boutique and sophisticated original addition to Whitmore Square,” Caroscio said. “From within, we have created homes that feel part of the city with its visual connections to the green square and city skylines.” Melissa Pisanelli, the director of the developer Studio Simpatico, said she had lived in the city for the past decade and had ensured every aspect of 58 IPARRITYI was carefully considered to enhance city living. “I adore the village living that the southwest quarter provides, it offers the convenience of city living bundled with a strong sense of community,” Pisanelli said. “It’s exciting to see so many young couples and families moving into the area, as well as small businesses, and a surge of creative professionals.” Pisanelli said the complex was designed with these people in mind and would “contribute to the colourful and rich heritage of the square”. “The building is design orientated with fully functional spaces thoughtfully designed to be lived in,” she said. The generously sized homes include architecturally designed kitchens with Miele appliances, ducted reverse cycle air-conditioning, large bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, and floor-to-ceiling tiled bathrooms with premium Caroma fittings and fixtures. “We chose to partner with Caroma for all of our premium fittings and fixtures not only due to quality design and craftsmanship, but its unique heritage in Adelaide”, Pisanelli said. “The brand is a reminder of the entrepreneurial endeavours of migrants to Adelaide.” The fittings are not the only aspect giving a nod to South Australia. Local artists have also been commissioned to provide an artwork work for each level, including a permanent floral installation by Studio Botanic florist Nadia Travaglini, and each of the 23 bathrooms will have a hand-crafted basin by local ceramicist Samantha Faehrmann of Butter and Gravy. Pisanelli said custom-made oversized arched windows and large Juliette balconies will allow in natural light and promote cross-ventilation to the apartment. “Architecturally, there is nothing else like it in Adelaide,” she said. The innovative homes also incorporate large, functional outdoor spaces, with west-facing residences featuring a private ‘loggia’  to provide privacy and shade while framing views of Adelaide’s parklands. While the apartments will have private car parks, the complex will also house a Mercedes-Benz EQA electric vehicle for the shared use of residents through booking on a private app. If you’re on the hunt for real estate in Adelaide, 58 IPARRITYI is one of the most sought after developments in the city. 

The housing market in Australia has experienced a bumpy ride over the past year, as have most industries dealing with the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. However, data from September 2020 suggests a strong recovery in 2021. The economics team of Westpac has forecast house prices bottoming out at a fall of 2.3% by June 2021, compared to earlier predictions of a 10% slump over the same time period. Between June 2021 and the middle of 2023, experts are now expecting a national average rise of 7.5% per year, or 15% in total. These gains will be led by certain areas including Perth and Brisbane, while some major cities including Melbourne are expected to decline further than average over the coming months. Michael Akkawi is an entrepreneurial property developer with a focus on addressing the housing shortage. Akkawi’s work is known for its attention to detail and unique aesthetics, delivering lifestyle solutions to the housing market. Information shared in January 2021 showed that some regions of Australia were already experiencing a boom in house prices. The median house price for Sydney reached $1.2 million and Melbourne also reached record highs. This is despite the recession triggered by the response to COVID-19 and the fact that many urban professionals have chosen to relocate to more affordable coastal areas. Six out of eight capital city markets in Australia reached record highs for house prices in December 2020. While Perth and Darwin did not break any records, house prices still rose in both cities. With more professionals working from home, there has been an exodus towards coastal properties with scenic locations. The knock-on effect of this is that house prices in these typically more affordable areas are also on the rise as demand increases and stock levels remain low. An interest rate cut in November 2020 has been partially responsible for increased demand across the Australian housing market, with rates cut to an all-time low of 0.1% for cash rate. This helped to drive demand, with access to cheaper credit making mortgage payments for more expensive properties more affordable to many. Experts from Westpac have stated that the sustained low rates will push up average house prices from shore to shore, coupled with fiscal support from state and federal governments and ongoing regulatory support.

The recent progress in the property market Malta has become a success story for most countries. The amount of properties which are being sold and rented out both in terms of property value and property quantities.  The Property Market Growth in Malta The market in Malta is large, but there are various factors which help boost property market Malta. The first major factor is the the foreigners. Many foreigners love visiting Malta, this helps increase the demand for construction. For example 1 Million people visit Malta in the summer, in that short period many would stay in hotels but others would look for flats for rent in Malta or apartment or even villas to rent in Malta which are extra amazing to stay in, especially during the Summer. This obviously would urge locals to invest in properties to offer short lets to these types of visitors. Malta in the recent years has had many foreign businessses setting base here, creating lots of jobs and inviting people to work in Malta, this then pushes the long let property market. The Struggles of the Property Market in Malta With such a high demand for property, the prices have risen forcing many first time home buyers to struggle when it comes to buying their first home. Over the years Malta’s market had the 2nd highest property value growth in the world after Singapore. Many locals are forced to take a loan from the bank in order to follow their dreams. Recently there has been more incentives for buyers to buy due to the covid-19 pandemic. Real Estate in Malta is still keeping up with the pace and going strong. Get in contact with us today. 

The design of the new City Bridge in Drammen, Norway has been formally approved by the client, City of Drammen (Drammen Kommune). The 280m long crossing, co-designed by Knight Architects (UK), Saaha (NO), structural engineers Degree of Freedom (NO) and landscape architect Asplan Viak (NO) will replace an 84-year-old road bridge across the river Drammenselva and the local rail station, becoming a vital link within the city’s infrastructure network. The landmark bridge project is a key element in the city’s successful redevelopment programme, turning a former industrial enclave into a modern city with high living standards. The new City Bridge starts at the station square in Strømsø, the southern part of the city, crossing the newly redeveloped Drammen Rail station, including four platforms and six rail tracks, before stepping over the 150m wide Drammenselva river and tying into the central public square of Bragernes, on the north side of the city. Six stair ramps will provide access to the platforms of the station and to the promenade along the south shore. The width of the bridge will be increased from the current 15m to 19.4 m, providing ample space for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides of the road deck. The central carriageway has been designed exclusively for public transport. The central element of the bridge, the main river crossing, will be a pair of low lying, shallow steel arches spanning 85m across the river, leaping dramatically between two narrow piers located close to the river shores. This distinctive shape will be emblematic for the city of Drammen. At both ends of the bridge, significant consideration has been taken to provide a seamless transition between the deck and the local pedestrian and cycle routes. This includes a terraced plaza stretching along the north riverbanks on Bragernes allowing easy access to the bankside promenade crossing underneath the bridge. The promenade on the south bank, providing fishing spots and mooring for small boats, will be accessed from the bridge via a bespoke lift. Being the pivotal link for commuters and leisure pedestrians alike, great attention has been given to the detailing of the crossing. High quality finishes including granite paving and Accoya handrails will be accompanied by bespoke furniture including benches and flag poles. Carefully designed lighting (by Light Bureau) will ensure user safety at night and illuminate the striking bridge silhouette. The development is a joint operation by the City of Drammen (Drammen Kommune) and the Norwegian rail authority Bane NOR which is carried out in two separate lots. Detailed design stage of the bridge will finish in March 2021 and the construction tender will be announced before summer 2021. Construction works, including the demolition of the existing bridge and the erection of a temporary crossing, will start in 2022. The opening of the new City Bridge is scheduled for 2025.

Michel Desvigne, a highly regarded French landscape architect and respected Monaco architect, is known for his garden designs and his approach to urbanism. His gardens bring nature and a sense of calm to urban spaces. His love of gardens and landscapes were nurtured by his early work, as he and Christine Dalnoky were the first resident landscape architects at the Villa Medici in Rome, from 1986-1988. They were engaged by Renzo Piano – another award-winning Monaco architect — to design a garden at one of his projects on Paris’ rue de Meaux, famously known as “birch tree square.” Desvigne’s work can also be seen in his urban forests, including one in Paris and one on the roof of a railway station in Tokyo with more than 200 trees, as well as in such projects as the Parc aux Angéliques in Bordeaux, a riverside green space for walking, biking and picnicking, and the transformative Seguin Island Garden, the first public space to open on the island, formerly the site of the Renault factories in Boulogne-Billancourt, France. Also among the Monaco architect’s notable projects are the Grand Stade de Bordeaux, now known as the Nouveau Stade de Bordeaux; the outdoor spaces surrounding UNESCO Building V in Paris; and the public spaces and parkway in the Brazza district of Bordeaux. In addition to designing sustainable landscapes, Desvigne has taught at the Harvard Graduate School of Design in the United States for over two decades, as well as at other universities and architecture schools around the world. In 2011, Desvigne was awarded France’s Grand Prize for Urbanism, and in 2014 he was awarded the European Prize for Urban Public Space for his restoration of the Old Port of Marseilles. The Monaco architect’s list of awards is lengthy, and includes, most notably, the Architectural Medal from the French Academy of Culture in 2000. More recently, Desvigne and his firm, along with OBR Paolo Brescia and Tommaso Principi, won first prize in an international competition in 2016 to design the new Central Park in Prato, Italy; and, in collaboration with several other firms, he won the Equerre d’Argent 2020 Prize in the category Public and Landscaped Spaces. Mareterra Monaco Now the Monaco architect is part of the design and development team working on the 6-hectare eco-development of Mareterra Monaco, which will feature a pine forest of endemic Mediterranean trees, with more than 1,000 to be planted around the cove that was created by a unique land reclamation project. Desvigne envisions “the reintroduction of a natural environment in the city,” as his landscaping will establish a flourishing Mediterranean ecosystem in keeping with the principality’s focus on conservation and sustainability. Desvigne is truly transforming urban landscapes across the globe, and now the Principality of Monaco will be another showcase for his natural gardens. They will enhance the promenade along the project’s seafront setting, bringing the signature serenity of the landscape Monaco architect’s designs to this luxury property.

Sensational Monaco buildings 1 -Odeon Tower This iconic Monaco new building pierces the city-state’s skyline offering its residents limitless luxury.  The double skyscraper is located in the prestigious district of Monte-Carlo. It soars some 49 stories into the sky and was Monaco’s first skyscraper to be built since the 1980s. Tour Odeon includes 60 serviced apartments, duplexes, and a penthouse. Tour Odeon’s 31,500 square foot penthouse has grabbed headlines across the world for its outlandish facilities. Occupying the 45th through to the 49th floor, this voluminous space includes a cinema, billiard room, fitness room, and water slide, which descends directly from the dance floor into the penthouse’s private infinity pool. Residents of Tour Odeon apartments enjoy a host of amenities, including access to a private chauffeur, 24/7 concierge service, multiple swimming pools, and in house caterer. 2 – Parc Saint Roman Parc Saint Roman is a highly sought-after Monaco building, known for its luxury amenities, including swimming pool, pool house, fitness room, sauna, and 24-hour security and concierge services. Located in the popular district of La Rousse, Parc Saint Roman has long appealed to discerning investors who seek refined elegance. Parc Saint Roman is conveniently positioned, within striking distance of the Larvotto beaches and the Monte Carlo Country Club. Designed by renowned Italian architect Luigi Caccia Dominioni, this Monaco building is split into two blocks, La Tour, and Les Terrasses, totalling some 390 apartments. Many boast superb views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the coast from Italy to Cap Ferrat. 3 – Le Mirabeau Formerly a luxury hotel, this Monaco building was converted into residential apartments in 2007 and is now considered one the principality’s jewels in the crown when it comes to elegant Monaco real estate. Located in Monte-Carlo, Mirabeau is situated close to the famed Carre d’Or, the most prestigious address in Monaco. The Carre d’Or, or Golden Square, is home to the legendary Monte Carlo Casino, the Hotel de Paris, and the chic Café de Paris, known as the place to see and be seen. Of course, it is also home to some of the world’s most desired designer boutiques and award-winning restaurants. Another key selling point of this famed high-rise Monaco building is its location right on the Grand Prix circuit, directly overlooking the famous hairpin of the Sun Casino. Residents of this Monaco building enjoy a host of amenities, including a 24/7 concierge service, fitness centre, and outdoor swimming pool. There is no doubt that those seeking a luxury residence with world-class facilities will find just what they are looking for in Monaco, the home of limitless luxury! What other prestigious Monaco buildings would you add to our guide?