MEET the 25-year-old who is playing a key role in the ambitious plans to transform a historic building in Carlisle into student accommodation. 

Carlisle's BDR Properties, founded by Ricardo Taborda, has seen significant growth over the past year, expanding from three properties on the books to now "overseeing over 30".

Originally from Lisbon but living in Carlisle since 2006, Ricardo launched the business in 2021 while still working at DFS. Describing his business as 'multifaceted,' Ricardo explained, "We handle everything from simple holiday lets to larger-scale developments. We help people find investment opportunities."

He went on: “I’ve always been good with numbers. I started watching loads of videos on property and understanding the figures.

"I started to understand how to turn a two-bed house into more than that, where I can add value.

“In January [2021], I did 100 viewings in one month in my spare time. That really bolstered my knowledge, it’s been three and a half years since then. I had Airbnb units until mid-way last year, and then I expanded the business, bringing a team on board.

"The big end goal is making my family’s life comfortable," he said.

BDR Properties is currently involved in the redevelopment of Victory House, a six-storey building in Carlisle’s city centre, into student accommodation.

Ricardo is working closely with his business partner, who purchased the property, to bring the building back to life.

It comes after the building was sold at auction for £466,000 in 2023. The proposed plans, submitted to the council, include 78 student rooms, 26 cycle spaces, communal areas, and a restaurant at street level.

However, Ricardo’s vision for Victory House, which dates back to 1877 and comprises the Grade-II listed Caledonian Mill, extends beyond the current plans.

“This is the first property of this size we’ve had. We’ve had a few big properties, a 14-bed and a nine-bed, but this is the biggest yet.

“Over 100 rooms is the long-term ambition for the student accommodation with the potential expansion of the building. We’re going to try to keep every historical feature within that building," he said.

Looking forward to further expansion in the city, Ricardo is focused on bringing people into Carlisle’s economy. But his goal isn’t just to attract outsiders; he’s also keen on collaborating with local residents and businesses.

As for the planned restaurant on the ground floor, Ricardo is open to suggestions, encouraging people in Carlisle to share their ideas on what they’d like to see in the space.