Mixed-use properties are becoming increasingly popular because they accommodate residential spaces, offices, and other commercial premises within close proximity of each other.
In this article, we will explore the factors influencing this trend, how these properties impact urban areas, and the benefits associated with their development.
What is a Mixed-Use Property?
Mixed-use properties are buildings designed to combine living, leisure, and office spaces within a single development.
These properties maximise land use by providing multiple amenities near each other whilst removing the need to commute between services.
Factors Driving Their Increasing Popularity
A diverse range of factors have played a part in increasing the popularity of mixed-use properties. Some examples include:
• Urbanisation
• Lifestyle changes
• Green living
• Property Valuation
Urbanisation
Demand for commercial and residential spaces has sharply risen in recent years due to population growth and searches for better job opportunities. Various areas of the UK see higher levels of demand than others, depending on the potential for business profit.
With the need for space-saving developments rising, mixed-use properties have become a solution due to their effective land usage.
Working/Lifestyle Changes
Technology is constantly developing, with many significant transformations happening simultaneously. Some organisations have started adopting a flexible approach to working, including hybrid work patterns.
Mixed-use properties are becoming more popular as they sometimes offer serviced office environments that provide access to private workspaces and shared facilities either on-site or nearby. This can help improve employees’ work-life balance.
Green Living
The demand for sustainable solutions has intensified, and unlike single-use properties, mixed-use developments are a more sustainable option due to their walkability and the large number of amenities they offer.
These properties are effective at reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. Travelling to and from residential and office spaces no longer depends on public transport and long car journeys through congested areas.
Property Valuation and Community Interest
Mixed-use spaces offer various amenities and tend to be built in high-demand areas. Many are a great investment as they have high property value, benefitting residents and businesses alike.
Additionally, their varied architecture, arising from the integration of both commercial and residential areas, is visually appealing to locals, increasing their interest and likelihood of visiting the building.
The Different Types of Mixed-Use Properties
Two types of designs are at the forefront of mixed-use properties: Vertical and Horizontal.
Vertical mixed-use developments integrate various units (retail, offices or leisure spaces) by placing them on different floors of the same building. In contrast, horizontal integration involves spreading these units across multiple buildings in a complex.
What are each best suited for?
Suitability depends on factors such as land availability, market demand, and zoning regulations.
• Vertical – Limited land supply.
These can be compared to transit-oriented developments, where residential or workspaces are in the same building as transportation. Examples include London’s Canary Wharf where there is a mix of offices, residential spaces, and transport hubs.
• Horizontal – Less crowded areas with more land to spare.
Examples include London’s Westfield, a shopping centre that combines dining, retail, and entertainment under one roof. Part of the Stratford development includes office space and residential properties.
How Urban Spaces Have Evolved
Urban spaces began to evolve with the Industrial Revolution, and the development of zoning laws in the 20th century resulted in strict land use and separation. Many places have now become dependent on car use and other transportation, negatively impacting our environment via congestion and emissions.
Additional Benefits of Mixed-Use Properties
Mixed-use properties have a wide range of benefits, popularising their usage. Some additional examples include:
Economic Improvements
These developments are safe investments for businesses and tenants and greatly encourage economic investment.
The close proximity of amenities encourages local spending, with residents living in the area and locals being more likely to visit nearby services and stores. Local businesses see increased foot traffic, increasing their number of sales and regular visitors.
By placing local businesses in a strong position for growth, further investment is likely, with other organisations recognising the high return and community engagement.
Interconnecting Communities and Local Exposure
Many strong communities develop within and around mixed-use properties, which is excellent for businesses looking to form regular customer relationships.
These buildings are commonly found in densely located areas with local schools and libraries, allowing businesses to connect with surrounding communities.
Mixed-use properties are often close to residential areas. Many retailers can benefit from local exposure and boosting sales, becoming known and trusted.
Reduced Investment Risks
Another benefit is the resilience these types of properties show towards economic fluctuations, which increases investor confidence.
The diverse usage of these spaces means that income streams are less reliant on a specific sector and remain relatively stable. Economic downfalls are less likely to impact residential and commercial areas negatively.
More Affordable Housing
Many mixed-use properties create affordable housing for locals in the area.
Developers combining residential units with commercial areas can lower prices by distributing maintenance costs over multiple income streams. This cost-efficiency is great for providing suitable spaces for low- and moderate-income families to live.
Improved Community Wellbeing
Recreational and communal spaces in these areas can encourage residents to engage in physical activity. By having healthy food alternatives near the residential section, there is easier access to nutritious food. This offers a range of benefits for physical and mental health.
Moreover, some mixed-use properties have healthcare facilities within them, ensuring that residents experience an improved quality of life. Others have social areas where people can spend time with other residents, becoming part of a community.
Reduced Utility Connections
Having a single building containing workspaces and residences shares and reduces the number of connections to utilities like water and electricity. Less money is spent implementing pipes and wires, significantly simplifying maintenance and development.
Creation of Job Opportunities
Employment rates significantly rise in areas where mixed-use properties have been developed. Various commercial and maintenance positions become available to the local community with retail stores, restaurants, and other entertainment venues being at the forefront.
Construction, property management, and engineering are also great for providing local opportunities and improving the appeal of these spaces.
Challenges in Mixed-Use Development
Diverse Requirements
One of the main challenges in mixed-use development is balancing the requirements of different users.
As mixed-use properties cater to various sectors, they must carefully consider the design and layout of the residential, recreational, and office spaces to avoid noise and privacy complaints.
Similarly, their infrastructure requirements differ, meaning that developers must plan and consider potential challenges faced during development.
Regulatory Issues
Many mixed-use properties face approval processes, which can be time-consuming and may have additional costs associated with them.
These spaces also require collaboration from local authorities, so developers should be prepared to address concerns from existing businesses and residents, as their projects can impact local property values.
Financial Viability
It is sometimes difficult to assess the viability of mixed-use developments as developers should consider market demand and review feasibility studies.
Similarly, developers must have sufficient experience in managing risks and multiple income streams to ensure the property's smooth running.
Managing Expectations
Communities expecting new developments can sometimes have high expectations for the project's future and how it may impact their local neighbourhood.
Developers may want to communicate their plans and predictions for the property extensively with the public to build trust and address any concerns.
The Future of Mixed-Use Properties
With continuing demographic changes and increasing environmental concerns, mixed-use properties are predicted to continue rising in popularity. As technological advancements progress, these developments are likely to improve the experience of residents and customers within mixed-use spaces.
Examples of these advancements may include providing residents with real-time information on their property's recreational and commercial areas.
Future developments may start to incorporate transportation options and green spaces into their design, prioritising the mental and physical health of workers and residents.
Mixed-use properties are highly adaptable and resilient to market changes. Flexible designs such as these can adjust to technological and environmental challenges, making them highly relevant for the future.
As the cost of living continues to be an issue in today’s world, developers looking to support smaller businesses and provide the public with affordable housing are predicted to continue creating mixed-use spaces.
Key Takeaways:
• Mixed-use properties are developments which accommodate both residential and non-residential spaces such as offices.
• There are two types of mixed-use properties – vertical and horizontal – both of which suit different market demands and the amount of land available.
• These developments come with many benefits, such as boosting local economies, being environmentally sustainable, and reducing investment risks.
• Some challenges developers may face include managing community expectations and time-consuming approval processes.
• The future of mixed-use properties is positive because of its flexible design and resilience to changes in the market.
• Their popularity is predicted to continue increasing with further technological developments and lifestyle changes.
