At one point in time, single use developments were the big thing. From shopping centres to housing estates and industrial parks, the idea was to keep things separate. However, we’re now in an age where mixed use developments are the norm. They can provide a number of benefits, especially with the right designs. We want to have a closer look here, then if you want to design a development with a top architect in London, you can rely on Coffey Architects.

Different styles

Mixed use developments are fantastic because they combine two or more distinct uses. For example, there could be housing, offices, retail, community space, healthcare, education, or cultural space.

A notable thing here is a mixed use development could be vertical or horizontal. You may have a single tall building with a mix of uses on different floors. The Shard is a wonderful example, featuring offices, residences, restaurants, a hotel, a clinic, and more. Alternatively, you could have a wider development with buildings for different purposes on the same site. King’s Cross is one of the most successful examples, creating vibrant new neighbourhoods with homes, workspace, leisure space, schools, and parks.

Advantages

As we said above, there is a lot of support for mixed use developments today. In fact, the National Planning Policy Framework recommends them. Speak to us and create exceptional plans with a leading architect in London.

Residents can really benefit from mixed use developments. Most importantly, it can give them better access to amenities and reduce car dependency. Even better, it can create a strong community with more social interactions. A mix of homes and tenures is fantastic for ensuring communities are diverse and inclusive.

There are also plenty of potential economic benefits too. For example, people are more likely to shop and pay for leisure locally if there are shops and amenities on the development. This can be a huge benefit for local businesses.

Finally, mixed use developments can be best for the environment. They can use land more efficiently and sustainably, reducing sprawl and preventing over-development. Plus, the reduction in cars is really beneficial. Overall, they can have a much smaller carbon footprint.

Design tips

Coffey Architects has had the pleasure to design a number of projects that combine different uses, including vertical and horizontal developments. As a result, you can rely on us if you want to find innovative solutions. We’ve built a reputation as a top architect in London.

If you are planning a mixed use development, make sure you think about the challenges and opportunities. Plan for common issues like waste disposal and maintenance because they can cause serious headaches.

There are plenty of different documents and design guides to help you create wonderful developments, especially in London. If you have a look, you’ll see that a number of factors are recommended time and again. This includes walkability and accessibility, sustainability, local context, identity and design coherence, green spaces, and public transport. Integration is important too, ensuring the various uses won’t cause issues for stakeholders.

Do you want to work with a top architect in London?

If you really want to be successful with mixed use developments, you need to put the time in to planning and designing. This can help to address various challenges, including viability and land use. Remember these are more complex projects and can have much longer phasing. Therefore, you want to minimise the chance of issues and disruptions.

Coffey Architects is a great company to work with. We’re award winners with a real passion for creating exceptional places. You can rely on us, even for complex projects. So, get in touch today and get advice from a fantastic architect in London. We’ve got exemplary people and resources.