Inside SHYFT Collective: A Conversation with CEO Brandon Foldes
- esimon990
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
Brandon Foldes sat down with White Oak Reality to expand on the perspective of community development, historic preservation, and adaptive reuse.
Why SHYFT Collective Was Born
Brandon explains that SHYFT Collective started with a clear mission: to create a better way to a better space for clients. Rather than approaching projects from just one angle, SHYFT’s team blends expertise in construction, architectural design, and real estate to deliver thoughtful solutions. The focus isn’t just on building — it’s on creating value, staying on budget, and delivering on schedule.
The Value of Preserving Historic Structures
Historic structures form the fabric of many communities. For property owners, preserving these assets can mean environmental sustainability — because reuse often has a lower carbon footprint than new builds. For neighborhoods, revitalizing old buildings strengthens identity and can spark economic growth.
But there’s an added, less tangible benefit. Brandon notes that bringing a long-cherished building back to life gives residents a renewed sense of connection to the places they call home.
Challenges in Historic Preservation & Adaptive Reuse
Despite the rewards, historic preservation isn’t always straightforward. Brandon notes of two challenges:
Meeting historical grant requirements: Incentive programs and historic tax credit documentation can be time-intensive and complex.
Building conditions: Older structures often come with surprises — including deferred maintenance and structural unknowns — which means planning must include generous financial contingencies.
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