Can Affordable High-Rise Rental Blocks Be Retrofitted With Roof Terraces?

In high-density cities, high-rise buildings are becoming the popular choice for developers to create more housing. There are a variety of reasons for this, whether it’s a lack of available land for planning to the cost-effectiveness of building upwards as supposed to creating more housing on them!

What Is the Impact of High-Rise Buildings on thoseat Living There, and the Surrounding Area?

With increased temperatures coursing through the UK this summer, more areas are feeling the impact of adverse weather. With the understanding that heat rises, tThe BBC recently reported on how those living on the higher floors of high-rise buildings are feeling the impact of warmer weather. The article highlights ‘the urban heat island effect’, whereby structures such as these buildings retrain the heat and become much warmer than areas with green space.
utwards. With this in mind, there is additionally an increased interest in utilising the rooftop space on these high-rise buildings – including The COVID-19 pandemic also highlighted an increased need for more outdoor space, as many people were secluded in their homes. According to a study by ONS, lockdown caused:

  • An increase in people exercising
  • An increase in people using public green space
  • An increase in well-being attributed to nature

With this in mind, what if more housing developers decided to utilise their available rooftop space? We’ve discussed the demand and benefits.

Is There a Demand for More Outdoor Space?

According to our statistics, the demand for outdoor space at affordable properties remains high.

It’s interesting to note that our most searched property type this quarter was flats/apartments, alongside an increase in searches for rental properties with a garden or outside space. This demand isn’t limited to just rentals either, as a garden remains in the top 5 amenities when our users are looking for a shared ownership property.

What Are the Benefits of Having Outdoor Space?

Reduced Stress Levels

Having somewhere else to go other than an alternative room in your home offers fantastic stress relief, especially for those working from home. Being able to clear your head with some fresh air can work wonders on your productivity and mental health.

Health Benefits

Your mental and physical health can be positively impacted by the availability of outdoor space. Interesting, it can drastically help with eyesight as outdoor space can assist with preventing eyestrain and nearsightedness.

Good for Families

Outdoor space is fantastic for families, especially with children. Giving you a safe place to bond together (and tire out the kids!), an outdoor space can better relationships and create lasting memories.

Adds Value to the Property

When it comes to resale properties, an outdoor space can add value to the property due to all the demand we’ve discussed! If your outdoor space is “well-presenting”, you could be adding the value of up to 20% according to research.

Temperature Control

More outdoor space means more trees, which are crucial in helping control the temporary built-up areas. By covering the pavement and infrastructure, the green space acts as an important deterrent from the sun and higher heat as demonstrated by Louisville in the US!

If an affordable property with outdoor space sounds ideal to you, we’ve got the perfect place for you to start your search – with us!

Find your next home here.

Compare listings

Compare