Office Conversions: A Possible Housing Solution

Turning Empty Buildings into Homes

As housing shortages persist, authorities are exploring diverse solutions. One approach involves converting vacant office spaces into residential units. This strategy could offer a boost to the housing supply in specific areas.

Office-to-Apartment Potential

Transforming offices into apartments is one strategy to counter housing deficits. A recent study, published by **Wüest Partner**, indicates that the potential for such conversions is notable, with an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 dwellings possible. The report assessed various buildings using 17 variables to determine feasibility.

“Changes of assignment are especially interesting where the rents of the accommodation are higher than at least 100 francs per square meter and per year to those of the offices. This criterion is particularly fulfilled by the municipalities of agglomeration and the urban peripheries where the rents of the offices are moderate and the demand for housing.”

— **Wüest Partner**, Study Authors

According to the National Association of Home Builders, the U.S. needs to build 1.5 million new housing units annually to meet demand (NAHB 2024). This underscores the urgent need for diverse strategies to tackle housing shortages.

Factors for Consideration

The study highlights areas where this approach may be most effective. Locations with moderate office rents and high housing demand present the best opportunities. These factors create a favorable environment for office-to-residential transformations.

Further research is needed to determine the long-term impact of these conversions. However, this method offers promise in boosting housing supplies, especially in regions with specific market conditions.