Developers Propose New Residential Conversions

Several office-to-residential conversion projects are underway across the UK and the US, reflecting a growing trend in repurposing commercial properties amidst changing market conditions. In Enfield, The Grange N14 plans to convert an office building into 82 flats, but concerns have been raised about the lack of affordable housing and potential issues with living conditions, as some units will have non-openable windows and no outdoor amenity spaces. In San Diego, Ambient Communities has purchased a downtown office tower for $27.5M, intending to transform it into up to 180 residential units, with some designated for low-income families, capitalizing on the building's favorable features and low acquisition cost. Meanwhile, Finsbury Properties seeks to convert an empty three-storey building on Barking Road into 16 new homes, while a proposal in Carlisle aims to renovate the derelict Stanwix House into a four-bedroom residence, aiming to preserve its historical significance. These projects highlight a broader shift in urban development strategies as cities adapt to evolving housing needs and economic landscapes.