Finding Synergies in Historic Downtown Development

Earlier this week I visited Randy Hafer with High Plains Architects  in Billings to discuss opportunities to encourage additional Historic Development Downtown. Randy could be called the Guru of Montana historic tax credit projects. Having completed over six certified Historic Tax Credit Rehabilitation projects in Billings alone, he has also been instrumental in  recent Great Falls feasibility studies. Randy is the architect for recent local projects including the Arvon Block development and the Rocky Mountain Building.

Randy stressed the point of "synergy". A successful redevelopment project needs partners to compliment each others assets. Depending on the project, that could include a motivated owner, one or more investors, knowledgeable development, accounting, design, and legal support, as well as a supportive community. Depending on the intended use, one or more businesses can be important drivers of the development's success. Randy stressed how residential space has been the most successful use in projects so far, but mentioned that one of his partners has been driving development by implementing dining opportunities in first floor spaces.

The map below shows a recent inventory of historic potential in our own downtown. Spark Architecture is currently organizing a "historic development opportunities" Open House on Feb. 1st 2013. The goal for that night is opening the doors to synergies between businesses, building owners, and potential investors, as well as providing basic information on the "How-to". 

Great Falls, Montana Restaurant Makeover?

Instead of trying to import more great dining options, how about focusing on helping our local restaurants to become that great option?

The idea is not new, and TV shows like "Restaurant Impossible" by Food Network, and Fox "Kitchen Nightmares" suggest a trend. The Great Falls tribune already prominently features successful local "Ugly Bathroom Makeovers".

Google Plus rates restaurants with equal points for service, quality, and atmosphere. As laid out in previous posts, social Media and cellphone based cameras enable dining customers to share their experience with the world.  Similar to the TV series and local bathroom makeovers, a team of local businesses and organization could form a strike force, including marketing, design, building, and management assistance. Carefully documented into case studies, these projects could provide similar businesses (and their banks) with information and inspiration to decide on their own next moves.

Which local restaurant business do you nominate for a "makeover"?

Spark Architecture