The challenges for a business that puts the provision of better temporary housing as its main objective alongside a solid investment model are laid bare in the 9th podcast of the ULI Europe Vanguard series.
William Polisano – son of famous architect Lee Polisano – explains the journey he and his wife, Theodora Beckett, have been on launching Drum London (UK).
It is an inspiring story, but also at times a heart breaking one of valiant attempts that so nearly paid off were it not for unfortunate timing.
Subscribers can listen here, as well as to all 10 of the ULI Europe Vanguard podcasts here.
The ninth episode introduces Polisano, co-founder & CEO of Drum London (UK), as he begins by discussing his background and involvement in various placemaking projects, including 22 Bishopsgate.
He then delves into the proposition and challenges behind Drum London, an initiative he started with his wife to provide high-quality affordable temporary housing for homeless Londoners.
His interview took place at a time when Home REIT, a UK-listed property company concentrating on alleviating homelessness got into difficulties.
Home REIT has hit the headlines again in recent days with one investor lashing out at the board calling members ‘out of their depth’ after an abrupt U turn over a takeover offer from Bluestar.
Polisano gives a detailed and first hand picture of how investment firms could work wth local authorities to improve temporary housing in the UK.
It also comes as social housing takes centre stage on the M&A front with HK Asset Holdings recently launching a takeover offer for Civitas.
See also today's guest commentary by Jack Burnham, head of affordable housing at Octopus Real Estate.
