Bywater Properties has appointed a new head of living as it eyes build-to-rent move
Timber office specialist Bywater Properties is planning a strategic move into the residential sector this year.
The business, which was co-founded by the executive chairman of supermarket chain Iceland, has appointed Harry Daws as its new head of living.
Daws has 15 years’ experience in real estate, most recently as investment director at Scape, and will shape the company’s residential investment strategy over the next year.
He will help the team as it explores single and multifamily to rent and student accommodation as initial areas of interest.
Bywater was set up in 2007 by Iceland’s Richard Walker, along with ex-JLL consultant Theo Michell.
Early developments were in Poland but since 2013 the business has refocused on UK projects with a sustainability element.
The company’s flagship project is Paradise, a 63,250 sq ft mass timber office development in Lambeth, South London.
Theo Michell, chief executive officer of Bywater Properties, said: “Our decision to appoint a new Head of Living marks a moment of evolution for Bywater, as we look to diversify our portfolio of sustainable assets across the UK.
“Harry brings a wealth of knowledge across both London and regional residential markets and will play a critical role in supporting Bywater’s expansion.”
“Our long-term vision, with capital investment from Sumitomo Forestry, is to deliver projects that create meaningful change and challenge current norms in the property sector.
“We aim to align the goals of our investors, occupiers and the broader community through the delivery of high-quality, low carbon projects – in particular timber. “
Bywater embarked on a long-term partnership with Sumitomo Forestry, a global, end-to-end timber construction specialist, in 2023.
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