The climate crisis and housing affordability challenges are converging in ways that demand radical, system-wide change. As the real estate sector seeks to future-proof its assets, a new generation of coliving developments is emerging - one that aligns environmental goals, adaptive reuse, and community impact within a single, scalable vision.

This session will explore the evolving role of Purpose Built Coliving and the opportunities of repurposing existing buildings - such as office-to-residential conversions - to save on embodied carbon, revitalise stranded assets, and create inclusive, affordable housing solutions.

We’ll also discuss the practical challenges and opportunities in aligning ESG frameworks with viable business models, the role of investors and policymakers in supporting adaptive reuse, and how to embed social impact at the heart of design.

As the pressure to deliver housing that is both affordable and low-carbon intensifies, this session will challenge traditional approaches and highlight the innovative strategies driving progress in the sector.

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What will be covered in this session?

• Purpose- Retrofitted vs. Purpose-Built: Understanding the differences in design, construction, and impact between new developments and adaptive reuse.
• Tackling Embodied Carbon: How efficient retrofits and conversions - especially office-to-residential - can unlock sustainability wins while preserving architectural character.
• Social Impact in Design: Building inclusivity, community, and accessibility into the heart of coliving spaces.
• Financing & Policy Levers: How investment strategies and regulatory frameworks can support the transition towards affordable, net-zero coliving models.‍
• Best Practice & Lessons Learned: Insights from projects that have successfully balanced ESG objectives, adaptive reuse, and market demands.