Ground-level retail is often seen as essential for activating urban streets. But what happens when developers have a hard time finding tenants? In Portland, vacant spaces are being converted into ground-level apartments to meet high housing demand.
"Ground-floor retail has traditionally been seen by planners, developers and neighbors as key promoting street-level activity and vibrant urban neighborhoods," writes Elliot Njus. "But more developers are starting to see potential downsides, too, which is pushing them to look at alternatives."
“Retail is a fine idea, but as a planning tool, I think it’s been applied too liberally,” said Spencer Welton, a senior vice president for Simpson Housing. “It’s oversupplying the retail market, essentially.”
Landlords in Portland that are struggling to fill vacancies are converting ground-level storefronts into unique apartments that offer high ceilings and abundant light. "Privacy has been a sticking point for some potential tenants, Welton said, but others find the idea of having their own front door appealing."
FULL STORY: Apartment buildings drop vacant storefronts in favor of ground-level apartments
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Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
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Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie