LOS ANGELES—Newman Garrison + Partners recently revealed that, as of this year, the firm has patented their New Block concept for urban developers nationwide. The architectural concept was created and patent by NG+P to address challenges faced by developers, landowners, financial institutions, and municipalities who primarily build on smaller urban sites. GlobeSt.com took a moment to chat with the firm's Kevin Newman, chairman and CEO, about the new concept and its advantages.

GlobeSt.com: What are some of the challenges developers are finding in urban areas?

Kevin Newman: Especially as it relates to DTLA, measures such as JJJ and the upcoming linkage fees that will be applied to new developments to address the need for funding affordable housing, adds additional costs to the overall development budgets. This along with ever rising construction and land costs are creating obstacles to build and develop market rate multi-family housing in general. In some areas throughout Southern California, the rental markets have become a bit saturated as it relates to high-end luxury apartments. Most of our clients are now looking at designing more cost effective buildings, being more disciplined as to where we add the bling, but making sure that the amenities and common areas create a socially oriented lifestyle for the residence.