#10 - Martin Kelly, President at Blueprint

In Episode #10 of Slice of Real Estate, Martin Kelly, President at Blueprint.

Listen to the full episode to learn about:

Blueprint Overview: Martin Kelly describes Blueprint as the event for the future of the built world, focusing on real estate, construction, and climate tech.
Trends & Topics: The event will cover industry-shaping trends, including AI integration, new urban communities, and the aftermath of significant industry settlements.
Vision Stage Highlights: Spotlight on innovative developers like Marianne Gilmartin and their transformative projects in cities like Baltimore.
Event Evolution: Blueprint has grown from its inception into a pivotal industry event, now in its fourth year, highlighting cutting-edge developments and fostering innovation.

Introduction to Blueprint

Blueprint, led by President Martin Kelly, has rapidly become a premier event for those interested in the future of the built world. From its beginnings to its current status as a must-attend event in real estate, construction, and climate tech, Blueprint champions innovation and forward-thinking in these industries.

The Journey from Year One to Year Four

In just four years, Blueprint has evolved from a nascent idea into an industry-defining event. Originally conceptualized by Connective, a studio known for creating events with a futuristic, tech-enabled approach, Blueprint now serves as a platform that brings together the brightest minds in real estate. Kelly, who joined Blueprint two years ago, describes the event's unique positioning as a space where innovation is not just discussed but actively championed.

Key Industry Trends and Their Impact

Blueprint is set to explore several pivotal trends in real estate and construction. AI, for example, is no longer just a buzzword but a tangible force that industry leaders are eager to understand and implement. The event’s Built World Challenge, supported by major players like Starwood and Newberger Berman, will showcase startups with groundbreaking AI solutions. Additionally, the fallout from recent industry settlements is expected to reshape the brokerage landscape, creating new opportunities and challenges that will be hotly debated at the event.

Spotlight on Visionary Developers

One of the most anticipated aspects of Blueprint is the Vision Stage, where leading developers will present their latest projects. Noteworthy among them is Marianne Gilmartin, whose work on the Baltimore Peninsula aims to bridge significant divisions within the city, with potential ripple effects across the industry. Other prominent figures, such as Richard Riga and Casey Roller, will also share their visionary approaches to building new communities that blend innovation with sustainability.

The Challenge of Adoption in the Built World

Despite the rapid pace of innovation, Kelly acknowledges that adoption remains a significant hurdle in the built world. From construction to multifamily housing, different sectors face unique challenges in integrating new technologies. Blueprint aims to address these issues through peer-to-peer roundtables and focused discussions, offering practical solutions to help owners and operators navigate these complexities.

Conclusion

As Blueprint 2024 approaches, the anticipation builds. Martin Kelly and his team continue to refine the event, ensuring it remains relevant and impactful in a rapidly evolving industry. With a lineup of thought-provoking topics and visionary speakers, this year’s Blueprint promises to be a pivotal moment for those at the forefront of real estate and construction innovation.