Conversion of offices into affordable housing

The report "Conversion of offices into affordable housing" has been published by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Environment, particularly by the BPIE (Buildings Performance Institute Europe). The authors, Lisa Graaf, Emily Bankert, and Zsolt Toth, focus on addressing the growing housing crisis in Europe, emphasizing the importance of repurposing existing structures to meet housing needs sustainably. The report underscores housing as a fundamental right and a critical issue on the European policymaking agenda.

Housing affordability and availability are pressing social and economic issues across Europe, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The report highlights that the conversion of underutilized office spaces into affordable housing can address housing shortages, promote social cohesion, and support economic competitiveness. It argues that repurposing existing buildings is a practical and efficient response to the growing demand for housing without breaching planetary boundaries.

The report outlines several key findings regarding the conversion of offices into housing. Firstly, repurposing existing structures does not compromise living standards or quality. The report emphasizes that proper design and energy efficiency can be integrated into conversion projects, yielding significant benefits. Moreover, successful conversions often rely on community engagement and fostering social fabric, ensuring that new housing integrates well into urban contexts.

The economic viability of conversions varies by project, yet evidence suggests that many conversions can be more cost-effective than new constructions. While conversions may involve unforeseen costs, the report indicates that under favorable conditions, they often achieve lower overall costs. Environmentally, converting offices into housing significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with demolition and new construction, contributing to climate objectives.

The report presents several recommendations for EU, national, and local authorities to facilitate office-to-housing conversions. These include adopting policies prioritizing conversions over new construction, collecting data on vacant office buildings, and adapting building regulations to support conversion projects. Financial incentives such as tax credits and grants are also recommended to help overcome the initial cost barriers associated with conversions.

The report features various successful case studies from across Europe, illustrating how repurposing office buildings into affordable housing has been successfully implemented. These examples highlight the importance of favorable acquisition prices, streamlined permitting processes, and active engagement with local communities to create vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods.

In conclusion, the report demonstrates that converting office spaces into affordable housing is not only feasible but also a vital strategy for addressing Europe's housing crisis efficiently and sustainably. By prioritizing conversions, Europe can create more accessible, inclusive, and environmentally friendly living spaces while minimizing the environmental impacts associated with new constructions.