Future trends in property development.
Last year, I had the pleasure of being the main speaker at the Property Professionals Lunch, a fantastic event attended by over 80 professionals from across the property and construction industries. I was grateful to Katie Price and Sophie Campbell-Adams of Britton and Time Solicitors for inviting me to share my experience of running Hampson Architects and my thoughts on future trends in property development.
For those who couldn’t attend, I wanted to share some key topics I discussed that are shaping the future of residential design.
1. Medium-Sized Co-Living Developments
Large-scale co-living developments, featuring 200+ flats above shared amenities like gyms, cafes, and workspaces, have become increasingly popular. Meanwhile, traditional HMOs (Houses of Multiple Occupation) have long provided shared living spaces in converted terraced houses. However, I believe the next major shift will be towards medium-sized co-living developments.
These will consist of 20-45 compact flats in one or multiple interconnected buildings, strategically positioned near existing amenities such as gyms, coffee shops, or coworking spaces. This model fills the gap between large co-living schemes and traditional HMOs, offering a higher quality and more community-focused living experience. The scale of these developments allows for both affordability and a strong sense of community, making them an attractive option for young professionals and urban dwellers.
2. Multi-Generational Living
With evolving family dynamics and rising property prices, multi-generational living is becoming an increasingly viable solution. More homeowners are adapting their properties to accommodate multiple generations under one roof, ensuring both independence and support.
A common approach involves creating a separate living space within the home—a self-contained studio with a kitchenette, bathroom, and private entrance. Initially designed for young adults seeking independence, these spaces can later be repurposed for elderly family members, providing a seamless and practical transition as family needs change. Future-proofing homes in this way allows families to stay together while maintaining privacy and flexibility.
3. Downsizer Developers
An emerging and particularly interesting trend is the rise of "downsizer developers"—homeowners in their 70s or 80s looking to unlock the full potential of their property. Many of these individuals own large, older homes that are costly to maintain and inefficient in terms of energy use.
We’re seeing more homeowners seeking planning permission to build smaller, eco-friendly homes on their existing land—often two-bedroom, zero-energy, single-level houses. This approach allows them to downsize into a home designed for comfort, sustainability, and accessibility while selling their original property to fund the new build. It’s a practical and financially savvy way to remain in a familiar area while embracing a more manageable and future-proof living arrangement.
Partnering with Hampson Architects
At Hampson Architects, we have extensive experience in designing residential projects that align with these emerging trends. Whether you’re considering a co-living space, a multi-generational home, or a sustainable downsizer development, we’re here to guide you through the process. Our expertise ensures that your project is both innovative and tailored to your specific needs.
If you’re thinking about starting a new project or simply exploring possibilities, let’s connect! We’d love to discuss how we can help bring your vision to life.