Latest news with #urbanliving
Washington Post
21 hours ago
- General
- Washington Post
Asking Eric: Neighbors' trash habits cause a ruckus
Dear Eric: We live in a big city where houses are very close together. My neighbors keep their trash bins in the driveway close to my front and side doors. They have three dogs, and the bin banging begins early, sometimes before 7 in the morning. My living room and kitchen are right next to their driveway, so I hear banging from trash lids all day long from throwing dog waste and more. When I worked, I probably didn't notice as much, but I'm retired now, and it is really getting on my nerves. I want to ask them to please try to close the bin quietly instead of just letting the lids drop and bang, but my husband thinks they will retaliate and make it worse. We mostly have a good relationship with them, but I do not want to have this banging the rest of my life. Ideally, they should put their bins in the alley, but I would settle for quiet shutting as I guess it is convenient for them to keep close to my door. Your thoughts? — Quiet Please Quiet: If you have a mostly peaceable relationship with your neighbors, it doesn't seem likely that a request like this would escalate to retaliation. It's a reasonable ask and your solutions — either moving the bins or being more conscientious about shutting them — are seemingly easy to implement. Whether in a big city with its close proximities, or a remote piece of land where the nearest house is barely in view, or somewhere in between, we have to figure out how to live in harmony with those around us. As with any other relationship, one of the foundations of good neighborhood is communication. And that runs both ways. When you let them know what you're experiencing, you empower them to make a change. So, don't be afraid to speak up. Now, it's also true that some people are, well, jerks. And if that's the case and they set about making more noise, rather than less, then you've got a different issue. But I'm hoping conscientiousness wins out for your sake. Dear Eric: I have remained close with my college roommate, Chris, for 45 years. Life has not been easy for her due to various health issues, which I believe all stem from her unhealthy eating habits. About 10 years ago, after Chris was laid off from a job she loved and had worked at for years, she found herself in a financial bind. She came to stay with my family in another state for several months, rent free, while she looked for another job and an affordable apartment, neither of which panned out. After advising us that she was going to stop looking until she got back from a planned cruise, I finally had to ask her to leave when we realized we were being taken advantage of. Before Chris left, we paid off her car loan to help her along. Since then, Chris has continually called to ask for money because she knows I can afford to give it to her. She has asked for and been given money from other friends as well to help her out with her medical bills. The last time she called I finally put my foot down and told her I was not going to give her any more money. Now I find myself feeling guilty, but I am also feeling resentful. I do worry about Chris and what will happen to her. Am I wrong for feeling this way? — Guilty Friend Friend: It makes sense that you'd feel a complicated mix of emotions. You care about Chris — and have for decades — and you want what's best for her. You've also put a lot of energy into helping her out. But, from your telling, Chris isn't being active enough in finding solutions to her financial troubles. Or, at least, as active as you'd prefer. So, the guilt probably stems from the feeling that you can do more, even though you suspect that doing more for Chris might not solve the underlying issue. It's worth considering that Chris may have other struggles that are preventing her from getting back on her feet. This doesn't give her free license to treat you like an ATM, but perhaps thinking about her journey in a different way will help ease the resentment you're feeling. Now that you've drawn the line, you have an opportunity to redefine how your friendship works. You might talk with her about how those requests felt to you and how you're feeling now. The goal is to clear the air a bit so that, ideally, you can be there for each other as longtime friends and, potentially, you can provide support for Chris in ways that aren't monetary. (Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@ or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at 2025 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Construction ready to begin on affordable housing project near Ala Moana
JL Capital has officially broken ground on Amana Lofts, a new affordable housing development at 765 Amana St. that will bring 64 rental units to Hono lulu's urban core. Located near Ala Moana Center and the planned Ala Moana rail station, the project aims to meet the growing demand for affordable housing in one of the city's most accessible and transit-connected neighborhoods. The development will convert a five-story former office building with ground-floor parking into studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. According to Michael Vachio, senior vice president of construction and development, the building had remained mostly vacant after years of use as an office space. Rather than acquiring new land, the project will utilize the existing structure by demolishing and redeveloping it into affordable housing, making use of the site's central location and existing infrastructure. Each unit will feature contemporary interiors and 14-foot ceilings, with the design focused on repurposing existing infrastructure to create modern, functional living spaces for local residents. All 64 units will be reserved for households earning up to 80 % of the area median income, in line with City and County of Honolulu affordable housing requirements. This ensures that working families, seniors and individuals can access stable housing options in a central location. As of 2025, HUD has set the AMI for the Urban Honolulu area at $129, 300 for a four-person household. Based on that figure, 80 % AMI translates to an annual income of $121, 600 for a family of four. The limits are used to determine eligibility for affordable housing programs and are adjusted annually to reflect changes in the local economy—and help ensure that housing resources are targeted to residents most in need of assistance. The project will also include on-site parking, elevator access and shared mobility options such as carshare and bikeshare programs to enhance transportation access for residents. Vachio said the project is completely privately funded, with a total cost of around $14 million. Amana Lofts is scheduled for completion in 2026.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
AARK Developers launches Aark Terraces, a landmark residential project in Dubailand
Other options: AARK Developers Unveils Aark Terraces in Dubailand, Elevating Urban Living Standards in Dubai Dubai's Dubailand Welcomes Aark Terraces as Next Flagship Residential Destination AARK Developers Launches Aark Terraces in Dubailand, Where Design Meets Tranquility Introducing Aark Terraces: Residential Masterpiece Redefining Urban Luxury in Dubailand AARK Developers has unveiled Aark Terraces, a landmark residential development in the heart of Dubailand, setting a new standard for refined urban living in one of Dubai's most rapidly evolving districts. Designed to cater to discerning residents and yield-focused investors alike, the launch signals the developer's most ambitious project to date and a strategic expansion into one of the city's highest-performing corridors. Aark Terraces features a curated collection of one- and two-bedroom residences, each thoughtfully designed to balance contemporary elegance with functionality. Select units include private jacuzzis, while all residents enjoy exclusive access to a rooftop lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, lush landscaped walkways, and secure underground parking, all within a gated, community-centric enclave. Strategically positioned at the centre of connectivity, Aark Terraces offers direct access to key destinations including Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, the Mall of the Emirates, and the city's primary highways. Its location in Dubailand, which recorded AED 26.2 billion in off-plan transactions last year, makes it a magnet for affluent families and investors. Gross rental yields in the area have climbed to 6.7 percent, outperforming several legacy districts and solidifying Dubailand's status as a high-return investment destination. "Aark Terraces is more than a development; it is a statement of our enduring philosophy," said Mr. Rahul Kumar Gupta, Chairman of AARK Developers. "At Aark, we believe in transforming everyday living into extraordinary experiences, and Aark Terraces reflects that promise—offering tranquil design, thoughtful amenities, and accessible luxury right in the heart of Dubailand. As the city evolves into a lifestyle destination, Aark Terraces aligns seamlessly with our vision of creating resort-style homes that balance serenity, sophistication, and urban convenience." Set against the backdrop of Dubai's record-breaking AED 761 billion in real estate transactions in 2024, the launch comes at a time of unprecedented investor confidence. With a surge of new schools, healthcare centres, retail destinations, and leisure attractions being developed in Dubailand, the district is rapidly becoming a self-contained urban ecosystem. Construction of Aark Terraces is already in progress under the supervision of globally acclaimed consultants to ensure timely delivery and impeccable quality. The project is the first in a pipeline of upscale developments planned by AARK Developers as it accelerates its expansion across Dubai's most sought-after neighborhoods. With its combination of visionary design, premium amenities, and long-term investment value, Aark Terraces is poised to become a defining address in Dubai's new era of urban luxury.
Trade Arabia
6 days ago
- Business
- Trade Arabia
KeyMavens, Engel achieve sales milestone at Dubai urban resort
KeyMavens Real Estate Development and Engel & Völkers has achieved a key milestone with 90% of its units at Dubai's first urban residential resort - Montage - being sold out. The duo celebrated the overwhelming success at an exclusive event held at the Mandarin Oriental Jumeira. The evening brought together top brokers, VIP guests, and global investors to honour the project's success. Scheduled for completion in 2027, Montage offers one and two-bedroom apartments with contemporary interiors crafted from travertine, wood, and backlit onyx, creating a warm and elegant ambience. The project is designed for those seeking more than just a home, it is an investment in well-being, adventure, and connection, setting a new benchmark for urban living in Dubai, said the developer. "Reaching 90% sold out is a powerful validation of the vision KeyMavens brought to life with Montage," remarked Daniel Hadi, CEO of Engel & Völkers Middle East. "There's a clear demand for homes that offer both immersive lifestyle experiences and long-term investment potential," he added. KeyMavens CEO Jason Kiszonak said: "Luxury is not just about aesthetics - it's about creating lasting value and an elevated way of living. With Montage, we are introducing a unique residential concept where quality and experience take centre stage." "Every detail, from our wellness-driven amenities to the project's strategic location, has been carefully planned to offer an exceptional living experience," stated Kiszonak. At the heart of Montage is Portola, a full-floor wellness and entertainment hub curated for relaxation, rejuvenation, and discovery. The development's world-class amenities include: *Three-Tiered Swimming Pools – Over 50 meters of swimmable distance, featuring a lagoon-style children's pool, swim-up seating, and choreographed mist & lighting effects. *Portola Wellness Hub – Featuring a snow room, Himalayan salt sauna, oxygen therapy room, cold plunge therapy, red-light therapy, and immersive relaxation lounges. *Portola Gym – A state-of-the-art 3,000 sq. ft. fitness center *Virtual Reality Experience Room – A 900 sq. ft. immersive gaming and adventure space, featuring hydraulic motion systems akin to theme park attractions. As the exclusive sales and marketing partner, Engel & Völkers brings its global reach and decades of real estate expertise to the success of Montage, said Hadi. The collaboration between Engel & Völkers and KeyMavens has been instrumental in introducing a new era of human-centric, wellness-forward living in Dubai. With prices starting from AED1.1 million ($299,451) and an attractive payment plan, Montage is a compelling proposition for investors and end-users alike, he added. Located in Al Jaddaf, Montage offers a serene waterfront lifestyle with seamless connectivity to Dubai's key districts, including Downtown Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, and the upcoming Etihad Rail station.
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Engel & Völkers and KeyMavens celebrate Dubai's first urban residential resort
Dubai, UAE: KeyMavens Real Estate Development and Engel & Völkers Middle East celebrated the overwhelming success of Montage, Dubai's first urban residential resort, at an exclusive event at the Mandarin Oriental Jumeira. The evening brought together top brokers, VIP guests, and global investors to honour the project's success. 'Reaching 90% sold out is a powerful validation of the vision KeyMavens brought to life with Montage,' said Daniel Hadi, CEO of Engel & Völkers Middle East. 'There's a clear demand for homes that offer both immersive lifestyle experiences and long-term investment potential.' Scheduled for completion in 2027, Montage offers one and two-bedroom apartments with contemporary interiors crafted from travertine, wood, and backlit onyx, creating a warm and elegant ambience. The project is designed for those seeking more than just a home, it is an investment in well-being, adventure, and connection, setting a new benchmark for urban living in Dubai. "Luxury is not just about aesthetics—it's about creating lasting value and an elevated way of living. With Montage, we are introducing a unique residential concept where quality and experience take centre stage," said Jason Kiszonak, CEO of KeyMavens. "Every detail, from our wellness-driven amenities to the project's strategic location, has been carefully planned to offer an exceptional living experience." Unparalleled Amenities: The Portola Experience At the heart of Montage is Portola, a full-floor wellness and entertainment hub curated for relaxation, rejuvenation, and discovery. The development's world-class amenities include: Three-Tiered Swimming Pools – Over 50 meters of swimmable distance, featuring a lagoon-style children's pool, swim-up seating, and choreographed mist & lighting effects. Portola Wellness Hub – Featuring a snow room, Himalayan salt sauna, oxygen therapy room, cold plunge therapy, red-light therapy, and immersive relaxation lounges. Portola Gym – A state-of-the-art 3,000 sq. ft. fitness center Virtual Reality Experience Room – A 900 sq. ft. immersive gaming and adventure space, featuring hydraulic motion systems akin to theme park attractions. Prime Location in Al Jaddaf Located in Al Jaddaf, Montage offers a serene waterfront lifestyle with seamless connectivity to Dubai's key districts, including Downtown Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, and the upcoming Etihad Rail station. Residents can easily walk to the Al Jaddaf Metro Station, with Dubai International Airport and Downtown Dubai a short drive away. This prime location ensures easy access to the city's vibrant business and lifestyle hubs while maintaining a tranquil, resort-like atmosphere. A Strategic Partnership for Success As the exclusive sales and marketing partner, Engel & Völkers brings its global reach and decades of real estate expertise to the success of Montage. The collaboration between Engel & Völkers and KeyMavens has been instrumental in introducing a new era of human-centric, wellness-forward living in Dubai. With prices starting from AED 1.1M and an attractive payment plan, Montage is a compelling proposition for investors and end-users alike. Press contact: Diana Džaka Bičo Marketing Director Office 21 Mezzanine Level, Golden Mile 2, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai UAE Dubai, United Arab Emirates Telephone number: +971 52 881 8057 Flor Pamintuan PR Account Director Ishraq Communications LLC flor@ About KeyMavens: KeyMavens is a boutique real estate developer with over 15 years of experience and a portfolio of more than 100 completed projects. Committed to durability, quality, and well-being, KeyMavens is known for crafting developments that seamlessly blend luxury with meaningful experiences. Montage is the latest embodiment of this vision, delivering best-in-class living at an accessible price point. About Engel & Völkers: Engel & Völkers is one of the world's leading service companies specialized in the brokerage of premium residential property, commercial real estate, yachts and aircrafts. For over 45 years now, the wishes and needs of private and institutional clients have had top priority, giving rise to the ongoing development of a range of services relating to all aspects of real estate. Sales and leaseholds, as well as consultancy for various investment opportunities in the real estate segment are among the core competencies of more than 16,500 people operating under the Engel & Völkers brand. The company is currently operating in over 35 countries on five continents. Intensive training schemes in its in-house real estate Academy and the high level of quality assurance governing its systematically structured service provision are key factors that account for the company's success. Engel & Völkers develops digital tools and IT products on an ongoing basis in order to keep its service as efficient as possible. In doing so, the company is setting new standards in digital solutions for property brokerage. About Engel & Völkers Middle East: Established in 2014, Engel & Völkers Middle East has its offices in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The team consists of over 200 trusted agents, each focusing on premium residential and commercial properties, serving as experts in their respective areas. The company recently established a separate entity for commercial real estate (Engel & Völkers Commercial Middle East). Engel & Völkers Commercial serves as an entry point to exceptional commercial real estate opportunities in Dubai, from attractive office spaces to industrial complexes. The Private Office provides services for affluent clients and has access to premium real estate globally. Whether you're in the market to rent, buy, or sell a property, Engel & Völkers Middle East is a perfect choice to achieve your real estate goals.
