London Road, Portsmouth
A former Portsmouth office transformed into a 13‑bed co‑living residence, designed around sustainability and next‑generation energy performance. The scheme achieved an exceptional EPC 97A through the integration of solar generation, air‑source heat pumps, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR)
Purchase Price: £375,000
Development: £620,000
Gross Development Value (GDV): £1,400,000 - £1,500,000
Sourced through a trusted partner, the property previously served as offices for a local care provider. The dual‑building footprint offered flexibility for conversion and expansion, paving the way for a high‑spec residential redevelopment.
Planning consent was granted in mid‑2023, and construction commenced immediately thereafter. The internal layout was completely reimagined, introducing a new third storey and multiple communal zones to create a premium co‑living environment that commands strong rental values.
All building services were replaced with modern, energy‑efficient systems — including MVHR ventilation, air‑source heat pumps, and photovoltaic panels with battery storage. A fabric‑first design approach ensured airtightness and thermal efficiency, a notable achievement given the age and structure of the original building.
The result is Portsmouth’s first “Eco‑HMO,” combining architectural quality with outstanding environmental credentials and delivering a benchmark EPC rating of 97A. Despite logistical challenges posed by its location on a busy arterial route, the project was delivered smoothly and to specification.
Project Insight
Office‑to‑residential conversion delivering 13 premium co‑living units
Located in Portsmouth’s sought‑after North End district
Full reconfiguration with advanced renewable and ventilation systems
Fabric‑first design achieving exceptional energy efficiency (EPC 97A)
GDV: £1,400,000–£1,500,000