Approximately 47,000 residential properties identified in Hamburg through recent research
In a recent development, Hamburg has emerged as a city with significant potential for creating additional living space through roof extensions. According to a study by an unspecified technology company and Velux Germany, an additional 46,784 new housing units could be realised in Hamburg, providing an additional 3.5 million square metres of living space.
The study suggests that this potential is mainly through roof extensions and additions to existing buildings. In fact, the study found that 8319 new apartments were reported as completed in Hamburg in the past year, with the majority being created in newly built buildings. However, the potential for adding floors to existing buildings in Hamburg is relatively high compared to new construction, exceeding 40 percent in the first five postal code areas.
The postal code 22455-Hamburg-Niendorf ranks in the national top 10 for potential new housing units, with the potential range of new housing units in these areas being from almost 3,000 to around 1,300. This potential is particularly large in Bavaria and Hamburg. Surrounding areas such as 22846-Norderstedt, 25421-Pinneberg, and 22926-Ahrensburg also rank in the top 20 for potential new housing units.
The top six postal code areas with potential for new housing units in Hamburg are: 20535-Hamburg-Hamm, 22307-Hamburg-Barmbek-Nord, 22309-Hamburg-Steilshoop, 22767-Hamburg-Altona, 22049-Hamburg-Nord, and 22089-Hamburg-Eilbek.
Matthias Mager, Managing Director of Velux Germany, encourages builders, homeowners, and investors in Hamburg to make better use of what is already there and consider roof extensions and conversions as effective measures to quickly and scalably create living space.
To identify potential areas for creating additional living space through roof extensions in Hamburg, consider the following factors:
1. **Zoning Regulations**: Look for areas with lenient zoning laws that allow roof extensions. Hamburg has specific regulations regarding building modifications, so it's crucial to check local zoning codes.
2. **Building Types**: Focus on areas with older buildings or those that are less densely populated, as these might offer more opportunities for extensions. Altona, Eimsbüttel, and parts of the city center often have buildings that could be suitable for roof extensions.
3. **Neighborhood Characteristics**: Areas with a mix of residential and commercial spaces might have more opportunities for expansion. Neighborhoods like Ottensen in Altona or the lively streets of the Schanzenviertel could be good candidates.
4. **Historic Preservation**: Areas under historic preservation might have stricter regulations, limiting the possibilities for roof extensions. However, some neighborhoods might allow tasteful and compliant modifications.
5. **Environmental and View Considerations**: Areas with scenic views or proximity to green spaces might be more appealing for expansions. The Elbphilharmonie area or the vicinity of the Alster lakes could offer such opportunities.
To accurately pinpoint potential areas based on a specific study by Leaftech and Velux, it would be best to consult the study directly or contact these organisations for detailed insights. They might provide maps or data highlighting specific neighbourhoods or blocks with potential for roof extensions.
In a bid to promote the topic of adding floors to existing buildings, the Hamburg Senate aims to simplify regulations and advertise the potential benefits of roof extensions and conversions. With the next revision of the Hamburg Building Code, roof extension projects should no longer require approval if there is a corresponding zoning plan. This move is expected to encourage more builders, homeowners, and investors to consider roof extensions as a viable solution for addressing Hamburg's housing needs.
- Investing in roof extensions and conversions might be a lucrative opportunity for builders, homeowners, and investors in Hamburg, particularly in areas with lenient zoning laws and older buildings, such as Altona or parts of the city center.
- Following the Hamburg Senate's efforts to simplify regulations for roof extension projects, interested parties might find it beneficial to explore real-estate investments related to this sector, as the next revision of the Hamburg Building Code may allow such projects to proceed without approval if there is a corresponding zoning plan.
