Challenge
Our task was to convert an HMO into luxury serviced apartments, changing it from class C4 to class C1. But, there is a little more to the story. In a nutshell, our client wanted to create a place for those who work in London during the week but then head home at the weekends. Renting a whole flat might seem unnecessary, hotels are too expensive, and sharing a bathroom with strangers is unappealing. Our challenge was to create a viable solution.
Approach
We analysed the client's vision, recognising the growing need for private bathrooms and more personal space, especially highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We focused on designing individual units that balanced luxury and practicality, ensuring each had its own bathroom and ample space for work and relaxation.
Solution
Ultimately, we converted the HMO from C4 to C1, creating luxury serviced apartments with private bathrooms and optional food services. This approach not only addressed the niche market of weekday London workers but also set a precedent for future HMO designs.