Today we’d like to introduce you to Graham Aird.
Hi Graham, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My business partner, Michael Kelly, and I moved out here a year ago to start a small real estate investment company. We met each other at Boston College in 2017 – our freshman year. We ended up being roommates the next 3 years and would always joke about starting our own company one day. After college we found ourselves working in commercial real estate in Boston. We both enjoyed our jobs but wanted to do more. We decided to move out to Santa Barbara (where Michael grew up) and take a shot on starting our own company. A few months after moving out here we were presented the opportunity to help run a gym in the funk zone called The Base. The lease on its existing facility was about to expire and they needed to find a new location. Mike and I had no background in the fitness industry but wanted to take on the challenge, The gym had an amazing group of trainers, staff, and members so we felt confident that we could successfully relocate the gym. We decided to sign a new lease and build out a brand new facility on Gray Ave in the funk zone. The new facility offers both indoor and outdoor workout space and recovery area that includes sauna, cold plunge, and hot tub. The new space has been open for just over a month and are excited for the next chapter of the business.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Although we were able to transition the business to its new location without any major issues there were defiantly challenges along the way. We had delays with the buildout and the delivery of equipment forcing us to open the space partially. This made it difficult for us to market and spread the news about the new space since it was not fully complete. Luckily, our existing members and trainers were understanding and were able to make the available space work.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Greycliff Capital?
At our core, we’re a real estate investment firm focused on value-add commercial real estate along California’s Central Coast. We are two driven partners early in our careers who bring strong work ethic and a hunger to improve everyday. Our approach pairs deep local market knowledge with thoughtful, innovative design—because we believe the strongest projects are the ones that create community and draw people together. Wherever we can, we partner with local businesses to make that happen. We hope to be involved in many creative redevelopment projects and operating businesses that offers desired services to the community.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
People are at the heart of our business. We want to create spaces that draw people together and create community. We believe that we currently lack the third place and our company is looking to create these around Santa Barbara.
Pricing:
- Premier Membership: $225- 24/7 access to all amenities
- Performance Membership: $175 – 24/7 access to all amenities. Need to see a trainer or group class twice a week
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thebasesantabarbara.com/
- Instagram: the_base_sb
