What people are saying about John Lauriello
"John quarterbacked our Clark Building rehab project from start to finish. It was a challenging process - we stripped down an abandoned 1908 eyesore that was weeks away from being razed and rebuilt it into a showpiece in 19 months. John knew not only the right contractor for the job but the right project superintendent to get assigned to the project. And when our longtime banker ran for the hills when it was time to finance the project, John found us a local lender delighted to do the deal. From dealing with City Hall to architects to designers to attorneys to Historical Societies John always knew who to call and what to do. We couldn't have done the project without him, and I don't know anyone else who could have done what he did."
"He saved so many empty historic structures in our City Center by convincing law firms and restaurants to spend big dollars renovating buildings back to their former glory and then occupying the buildings, enlivening our community. John's tenacity and humor pushed these developments forward overcoming costs, bureaucracy, and complacency. And his clients were happy with the results! We collaborated with John on multiple Birmingham projects, so when it came time to find a larger office, John helped us develop a parcel in his Seaboard Yard development. We have happily occupied our own space for 20 years now and have John to thank for his visionary talents!"
"I've known John Lauriello a long time, going back to the Title Building project we worked on back in the 80's. Getting acquainted with John—this New Yorker that found his way to Birmingham—was a true pleasure. He has a heart of gold, is very creative, and is dedicated to downtown Birmingham. We worked on probably 30-40 buildings together, back when historic renovation was a new thing. He was also a great salesman -- ha! Beyond the business, I am proud to call John a great friend."
"I have known John for over three decades. During that time, my law firm and I have retained John on several projects, all of which have been highly successful. The term 'legend' is often overused to describe individuals who have dedicated a significant amount of time to a particular field with great success. John Lauriello stands out as a legend in the commercial real estate industry of Alabama. His contributions to the restoration of historic buildings in the state are unparalleled. John Lauriello's reputation is built on his vision, hard work, and honesty. These qualities exemplify his success and make him a trusted advisor in the commercial real estate sector."
"In 2002, The Dance Foundation needed a new home—space to grow our programs and deepen our impact. We were committed to staying in downtown Homewood but had outgrown our facility. John Lauriello stepped in and found what seemed impossible: a well-located property with room to expand, ample parking, and a price within reach. His expertise, persistence, and generosity made it happen. Thanks to John, we have a home where we continue to thrive. He remains a trusted advisor and valued friend to The Dance Foundation."
"Growing up in and thus into this community over the years, there is one man standing in memory who is not just a leader but a legend—John Lauriello, the heart and soul of Southpace Properties while also serving as the unelected proverbial Pope and Mayor of Birmingham. John has been a continual presence since my earliest days as an architect in training. John's creative and joyous passions led to multiple developments and successful projects. Beyond the humor and the hustle of the deals, John is a man of immense heart. He cares deeply about his clients, his team, and his community. His legacy at Southpace Properties is not just about buildings and contracts; it's about the people whose lives he has touched and the smiles he has brought to their faces."