Chris Papamichael | Urban Development
Principal, The Domain Companies
Chris Papamichael has extensive experience in the identification of acquisition and development opportunities in diverse markets and real estate sectors, as well as the design, construction and management of unique and high-quality assets.
Prior to launching Domain, Papamichael held positions at some of the country’s largest and most respected real estate investment and development firms, including W&M Properties, one of the country’s most successful real estate investors and owners; Crescent Heights, one of the country’s largest luxury condominium developers; and Aris Investment & Management, a New York City multifamily specialist where he was responsible for all investment and development activities. Papamichael currently serves on the board of the Louisiana Children’s Museum.
How would you both describe the status of urban development in New Orleans?
In a word, booming. We’ve seen an acceleration of sustainable development in the Downtown New Orleans core. A number of trends are making Downtown a more attractive place to live, work and visit, including improved transportation access and streetcar extensions, the renovation of historic theatres, and the introduction of diverse entertainment and hospitality offerings. The increase in residential density Downtown is very exciting, with new housing, amenities, retail and dining options coming online to meet demand.
How are your company’s developments impacting the urban marketplace?
Domain’s projects contribute to Downtown’s vibrancy and growth, providing spaces and opportunities for innovation, collaboration and community. Ace Hotel New Orleans is one example — a complete renovation of three historic buildings and the addition of a new structure have created a hub of food, music, art and culture.
The South Market District has become a thriving center for some of the best residences, restaurants, shops and amenities in the city, with the upcoming Morris Admji-designed Standard condominiums raising the bar for ownership opportunities.
Our upcoming co-working space — The Shop at the Contemporary Arts Center, New Orleans — reflects how our local economy is developing, designed to meet the needs of the growing technology and arts-based industries and creative professionals. With networking space and valuable programming and benefits, The Shop will offer an exciting new way to work and collaborate in New Orleans.
What do you project for the future? Six to 12 months down the road? Is this a new peak or a baseline?
We’ll see momentum continue to build as additional projects come online. Exciting new hospitality options will bring a diverse group of visitors Downtown, further supporting the area’s shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Mixed-use developments like South Market, combining first-class residences with prime commercial space, will attract more households and businesses to the area and continue to transform Downtown into a vibrant, walkable community. We’re very optimistic about Downtown’s future, and look forward to continuing to lead and support its incredible growth.
