Our Process
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We begin by identifying overlooked or underutilized sites with strong potential for transformation. Each opportunity is evaluated through a comprehensive lens: zoning, environmental constraints, market conditions, and community fit. Our background in architecture and real estate allows us to quickly assess what’s possible and what’s viable, balancing creative vision with development practicality from day one.
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As licensed architects, we lead the design process in-house, ensuring that every concept is grounded in regulatory compliance, constructability, and long-term usability. Our entitlement approach is proactive and collaborative by engaging early with municipalities, stakeholders, and community members to align the project with both public goals and private investment outcomes. Good design is not just aesthetic - it’s strategic.
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We manage each phase of development with a hands-on, detail-oriented approach. From budgeting and bidding to construction administration, we act as stewards of both quality and capital. Our integrated knowledge of design and development allows us to anticipate issues before they become costs, and to drive value through every decision in the field.
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As licensed real estate brokers, we track demand, absorption trends, and end-user expectations throughout the lifecycle of a project. Whether the goal is to lease, sell, or hold, we position each asset to perform in its specific market context. We bring together design integrity and market intelligence to ensure our developments generate lasting financial returns and remain responsive to community needs.
Our Team
Michelle Simoni
As a licensed architect, realtor and program manager with over 12 years of experience delivering high-value projects across residential, commercial, and institutional sectors, Michelle Simoni brings a unique ability to align design excellence with financial performance. She has led development programs with budgets exceeding $21 million, managing all aspects from feasibility and entitlement to construction administration and investor coordination. Michelle’s dual expertise in architecture and real estate allows her to strategically shape projects that meet regulatory requirements while optimizing buildability, speed to market, and long-term asset value. Whether executing infill developments or repositioning underutilized properties, her focus is on delivering outcomes that maximize return on investment while elevating the built environment.
Ben Birkey
With over a decade of experience managing complex architectural projects from concept through construction, Ben Birkey brings deep technical expertise and on-the-ground delivery skills to every development. As Project Architect and former Head of Hospitality at a top architectural Chicago firm, he has led the design and execution of multi-million-dollar mixed-use, residential, and hotel projects in high-demand markets such as Chicago, Miami, and Petoskey. Ben’s work spans zoning and entitlement, consultant coordination, and full CD and CA execution, ensuring that developments are not only beautifully designed, but feasible, efficient, and primed for long-term performance. His track record of shepherding projects from entitlement through occupancy demonstrates his ability to align design intent with construction reality. A critical asset to investor-backed developments seeking dependable execution and strong returns.