There are two huge challenges to tackle in the UK; creating more new housing and revitalising high streets. Imagine if we could do both at the same time. We could create fantastic places to live where residents can get everything they need nearby. As one of the most creative names for residential architecture in London, we want to have a closer look at what could be possible here.
The issues with high streets
Across the UK, traditional shopping areas have had a very hard time in the last decade or two. The rise of online shopping had a big impact on footfall. Then, more recently we had the covid pandemic. Many high streets are nowhere near returning to pre-covid levels of footfall and likely never will.
At the same time, there are issues with the units themselves. High streets are from a time when floorspace was crucial. So, they can be massive with space upstairs too. Today though, most businesses only value the frontage and first 6m. The rest often doesn’t get much use. Most second storeys are completely vacant. Rents and business rates can be high because of the amount of space, but this makes it even harder for businesses to survive.
What we have to do is redefine exactly what we need from high streets. The idea of the “20 minute neighbourhood” would be great here. It would ensure people could get everything they need near to where they live. Even better, we could make changes so the areas are “local living centres”. This would mean people living there, working there, and enjoying leisure there. It would be better for the area and the environment.
Changing attitudes
There are some massive obstacles here though. They can cause challenges with creating residential architecture in London and all other locations, including urban, suburban, and rural spots.
In the UK we have a suburban model for housing. We strive to live in residential areas with open space. In other parts of the world though, particularly Europe, urban living in apartment blocks is the norm. We need to take inspiration from this. People should want to live near their local high street so they can enjoy the lifestyle and give life to the local economy.
We also need to change attitudes towards changing use and having more housing in urban areas. If we converted all of the unused second floor class E space in urban areas into homes, we could easily make thousands or tens of thousands of units.
What would help would be ensuring that the urban areas will have everything people need. If we’re creating housing, we also need to provide things like schools, healthcare facilities, restaurants, and more.
Finally, we need to change how people view dense developments. We can see from various parts of the world that they can work effectively, especially with good designs that focus on sustainability. However, there is often fierce opposition to them here. In a lot of cases people just don’t want them in their neighbourhoods, especially tall skyscrapers. However, they are the most effective way to create as much housing as possible for the space. This can protect green parts of the country.
Ask us about residential architecture in London
It will be very interesting to see if we do get changes and more people looking at ways to redefine and reinvigorate high streets. They are definitely needed to bring the areas back to life. There is also the chance to help deliver housing and tackle the huge issue with supplies.
If you are thinking of a project, especially for residential architecture in London, we’d be thrilled to help. You can contact us to give us your brief and see what we can do. Plus, you can browse our website to view some of our amazing projects.