[Ed Note: as of 2015 most links are dead, other than the 1st one]
You know, I really admire Tom Sargent [Immediately jump to Perspectives article in Contract Design Magazine *HERE*]. I have known a lot of developers, but very few have had such a long-view approach, coupled with steadfast determination. Even those I know that approach that level of professionalism don’t have the empathy, humanitarianism, self awareness, or commitment to the integrity and vision.
I know I sound like a fanboy, and a bit cliche, but if any of you realized what he went through on his last green-build/historic renovation/national park land reuse… you would understand. Very rarely do we see a holistic approach to development, with as much concern for the land use as well as the people that are impacted by it.
It is no wonder why he is featured in this month’s Contract magazine, and I post those articles here because… well… it’s important. For any developers, architects, designers and more… he really has a wonderful philosophy to this madness that we “do”. I think his words will make you think, and the ideas he is promoting are relevant, if not before their time. Maybe not all that too soon… apparently commercial builds are still heavily enthused and leaning towards green builds, regardless of the economy. This editorial from Contract [ED NOTE: dead link, can’t find article] says a lot about that… and about people like Tom that make it a priority to “lengthen the timeline” of development mentality, and focus on the Native American “7th Generation approach” in a business sense.
Tom is trying to spread some very big ideas around… magnanimous in their complexity, to be sure. But huge in their forward-thinking, dedication to building community, and creating sustainable structures that are functional and practical, aesthetically pleasing and innovative. Actually… all the people at Equity Community Builders in San Francisco have put together some amazing work. So three cheers to Tom, and a moment in the spotlight for one of the most humble people I have ever worked with.
PERSPECTIVES, with Tom Sargent; Principal with Equity Community Builders
This morning I was just listening to the audio version of Hot, Flat, and Crowded. Friedman was talking about the role of government regulation – LEED compliancy specifically – in promoting greater efficiency. I wanted to do some more research on the topic of my own (including outside hospitality), so seeing this post was timely.
Tom sounds like a great guy. I look forward to reading those links…