O SPACE Architecture & Interior Design :: Transformation of Commercial Spaces into Housing

Transformation of Commercial Spaces into Housing

transformation, housing, urban simplex, project, regulation

Did you know that you can turn a commercial space into a living space? A significant change that the Simplex Urbanístico introduced was the simplification of changes of use to residential, reflected in article 1422-B of the Civil Code. Now, a change of use can be made without the authorisation of the other condominium owners, as long as the change is to residential use and complies with the General Regulations for Urban Buildings (RGEU). To formalise the change, prior notice must be given to the town hall. If, after 20 days, the town hall has not given its opinion, the request is deemed to have been accepted. It is also the owner's responsibility to inform the condominium's administration in atleast 10 days.

Project example: Transformation of a service space into a two-bedroom dwelling

At O SPACE, we completely transformed a commercial shop into a modern and functional home. This project is a clear example of how it is possible to convert a service space into a cosy home, respecting all legal regulations and making the most of the existing structure. The area covered by this request is a fraction for services with an area of 86.00m² located in a building with mixed use, services and housing. The space consists of a work area for hairdressing services in open space, two toilets, a storage area/dressing room and some outside storage next to the building's entrance. The aim of this operation is to change the use of this fraction from services to housing, type T2, in accordance with the intention shown in the architectural project. In this solution, the proposed changes are to the compartmentalisation of the interior space, without altering the structural characteristics, the façade and the general areas of the existing building.The plan is to transform this service block into a two-bedroom apartment, with the following spaces:
  • Bedroom I: Located on the south-east rear façade, with 10.76m²
  • Bedroom II: Located on the south-east rear façade, with 13.48m²
  • Living Room: Located on the north-west main façade, with 18.27m²
  • Kitchenette: Incorporated into the living room, with 5.67m², with exhaust through the existing courette next to Bathroom I, connecting to the building's duct
  • Bathroom I: With 3.21m², including a shower tray and a thermo-accumulator in the ceiling for heating sanitary water
  • Bathroom II: With 4.63m², accessible for people with reduced mobility, also including a shower tray.

Planning and Execution
First, we analysed the Municipal Master Plan (PDM) to see if the area allowed a change of use to housing. In general, many areas have mixed uses, which facilitates this process. We then developed a detailed project that took into account all the client's needs, transforming the shop into a comfortable living space. This planning included the creation of living areas, a kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms. We ensured that the new dwelling complied with all the minimum areas, ventilation and natural light, and that it was adapted for accessibility, as required by the RGEU. This care ensured that the space was not only comfortable, but also safe and legally recognised as a home.
The facility provided by the Simplex Urbanístico makes it feasible to transform commercial spaces into housing, offering a practical and efficient solution to the housing shortage. With the right guidance and attention to regulatory details, it is possible to create comfortable and functional homes from former commercial spaces. At O SPACE, we take pride in realising projects that transform spaces and improve people's lives.

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