Where Architecture Meets Real Estate Development: Eric Newland Brings Holistic View to Architectural Process
Eric Newland brings a unique perspective to the KDG through his education in architecture and continued work in real estate development. His expertise allows for a start-to-finish view of how architecture comes to life. His vision of every aspect, from financials to practical details through construction and into the sale or running of each project, allows him to see the ramifications of design plans and how they can affect the project at each stage.
What first drew you to architecture, and how did that lead you to Real Estate Development?
The desire to create inspiring spaces and understand how they get built intrigued me from both creative and practical perspectives. Seeking to understand site selection, budget limitations, economic impact, end-user profiles, and project scope led me into the real estate aspect of the decision-making process.
You studied under Dan in the high school ACM program. What do you remember most from your time as his student?
I recall learning that architecture is much broader than I could have imagined. At that point in high school, the subjects we were studying no longer felt compartmentalized, but woven together into a career path. It all started to click!
How has architecture allowed you to approach real estate development in a new way?
Architecture requires creative, outside-the-box thinking. My expertise in the design and construction process has been most influential on the front end of a project, helping me articulate a vision and assemble a comprehensive development team.
How do you balance design and creativity with creating a practical and successful project?
This is the puzzle, and the goal is always to create the most meaningful and impactful project within a limited number of resources available.
What perspective do you bring to the KDG team with your experience as a developer?
I have a history of working alongside attorneys, leasing specialists, pre-construction teams, asset and property managers, and financial institutions. This background experience brings an additional perspective that is influential in articulating project scope, phasing, budget feasibility, and economic impact. Ultimately, the desire is to serve our clients as best we can. The ability to understand our clients and effectively communicate with them is a value-added service.
What is one thing that you appreciate more now about architecture than when you were a student in the ACM program?
I appreciate that architecture is a lifelong learning process and can be applied universally to a multitude of professions and applications. Most importantly, I value relationships, so the dynamic of bringing together teams of intelligent and passionate people makes architecture a fun and rewarding career.
