Today, I’m thrilled to sit down with Luca Calaraili, a renowned expert in construction, design, and architecture, whose innovative approach and passion for technology have made significant impacts in the industry. We’re diving into the exciting One Eastside build-to-rent development in Birmingham, a transformative project that’s reshaping the city’s skyline and community. In our conversation, Luca shares insights on the project’s progress, its importance to Birmingham’s growth, the unique partnership behind it, and what future residents can expect from this landmark development.
Can you tell us about the One Eastside development and why it’s such a significant project for Birmingham?
One Eastside is a groundbreaking build-to-rent project in the heart of Birmingham, poised to redefine urban living in the city. It’s a massive development that’s not just about providing homes but also about creating a vibrant community hub. What makes it stand out is its prime location, just steps away from the new HS2 station at Curzon Street, which is a £1 billion infrastructure project. This proximity positions One Eastside as a gateway to connectivity, making it incredibly attractive for residents and a catalyst for economic growth in the area. It’s a bold statement of Birmingham’s evolution into a modern, forward-thinking city.
What’s the current status of the One Eastside project as of late July 2025?
As of July 31, 2025, we’ve reached a major milestone with the sectional completion of Tower B. This means that a significant portion of the building is now finished and ready for occupancy, specifically 140 new homes. These include a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, which are now available for rent. It’s an exciting step forward, marking the first phase of making this development a reality for residents eager to move into this dynamic part of Birmingham.
What can future residents look forward to when the entire One Eastside project wraps up in 2026?
By the time the second phase is complete in 2026, One Eastside will offer a total of 667 high-quality rental homes. Beyond just living spaces, we’re creating an elevated lifestyle with a range of top-notch amenities. Residents will have access to a cinema room, a sky lounge with stunning views, a spa, a fully equipped gym, and even co-working spaces for those who work from home or need a creative environment. It’s designed to be a place where people can live, work, and relax without ever needing to leave the complex.
Can you walk us through the collaboration behind One Eastside and how the partnership works?
Absolutely. This project is a collaboration between a major financial backer and a local developer with deep roots in Birmingham. The financial partner provided forward funding of £200 million and will own the development long-term, ensuring its stability and vision. Meanwhile, the development team is responsible for bringing the project to life—from design and construction to managing the day-to-day progress. It’s a synergy of financial strength and local expertise, ensuring that One Eastside meets both investment goals and community needs.
What motivated the financial investment in a project like One Eastside?
The investment in One Eastside aligns with a broader strategy to secure stable, long-term returns that can support future pension payments for policyholders. Projects like this are ideal because they generate consistent, index-linked cash flows through rental income. Beyond the financials, there’s also a strong belief in the social impact—investing in housing and infrastructure drives economic growth, creates jobs, and revitalizes communities. It’s about building something that benefits both investors and the wider public for decades to come.
How do you see One Eastside influencing Birmingham’s growth and local economy?
One Eastside is a game-changer for Birmingham. It’s not just adding hundreds of homes; it’s contributing to the city’s economic vitality by creating jobs during construction and beyond, from maintenance to amenity management. It also brings social value by offering high-quality housing in a central location, attracting a diverse range of residents who will contribute to the local economy. Projects like this elevate Birmingham’s status as a destination for living and working, fostering a ripple effect of growth and opportunity throughout the region.
With Tower A set to be Birmingham’s tallest building at 51 storeys, how will this impact the city’s skyline and identity?
Tower A reaching 51 storeys is a monumental achievement for Birmingham. It’s a striking addition to the skyline, symbolizing the city’s ambition and modernity. I think it will shift perceptions, positioning Birmingham as a major player among UK cities, not just a regional hub. Designing and constructing a building of this height came with challenges, like ensuring structural integrity against wind loads and integrating it seamlessly into the urban fabric. But overcoming those hurdles has resulted in an iconic structure that I believe will become a source of pride for the city.
Who is the target audience for renting at One Eastside, and how can interested people learn more?
We’re aiming to attract a wide range of residents—young professionals, small families, and even retirees looking for a modern, connected lifestyle in the heart of Birmingham. The variety of apartment sizes and amenities caters to different needs and preferences. For anyone interested in renting, they can reach out directly via email at leasing@oneeastside.co.uk or call 07812408381 for inquiries. There’s also a wealth of information available on the project website, www.oneeastside.co.uk, where they can explore details about the development and the leasing process.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of reaching this milestone with the first 140 homes becoming available?
Seeing the first 140 homes become available is incredibly fulfilling. For me, the most rewarding part is knowing that we’re not just building structures but creating spaces where people will build their lives. Every apartment represents a new story, a new family, or a new chapter for someone. It’s also a testament to the hard work of countless individuals—contractors, designers, consultants—who’ve poured their energy into this project. Watching a vision come to life in such a tangible way is what keeps me passionate about this industry.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for the future of build-to-rent developments in cities like Birmingham?
I’m very optimistic about the future of build-to-rent in cities like Birmingham. The demand for high-quality rental housing is growing as more people seek flexibility and urban lifestyles without the burden of homeownership. Projects like One Eastside are setting a new standard, showing how rental developments can offer community, amenities, and connectivity. I believe we’ll see more cities embracing this model, especially as infrastructure projects like HS2 make places like Birmingham even more accessible and attractive. It’s a sector that’s poised for significant growth, and I’m excited to see how it evolves over the next decade.
