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Why can’t we just turn the empty offices into apartments? (classic)
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- The podcast discusses the complexities involved in converting empty office spaces to residential units, highlighting zoning laws as a major hurdle.
- Zoning laws have historical underpinnings that often lead to exclusivity and housing shortages, affecting socio-economic dynamics in cities.
- Current office designs and community resistance significantly impede the process of transforming commercial properties into viable living spaces.
- Demographic changes are expected to shift public opinion regarding housing and development, potentially leading to more flexible zoning laws in the future.
- The need for a multifaceted solution to the housing crisis is emphasized, including exploring alternative development sources, like shopping mall conversions.
Summary
Introduction and Changes to Show Schedule
The episode begins with a brief introduction, highlighting the re-airing of a classic episode from August 2023. The host announces a change in the publishing cadence of the podcast, stating that episodes will now be released two to three times a month to allow for more thorough storytelling and better content quality. The host mentions a longer explanation about the show's schedule in their newsletter.
Current Housing Crisis: Empty Offices vs. Housing Shortage
The podcast dives into the pressing issue of vacant office spaces amidst a housing shortage. A listener, Julia from Santa Rosa, questions why these empty offices cannot be converted into apartments. The host reflects on the disconnect between housing needs and the availability of space, emphasizing the complexity behind zoning regulations that complicate the conversion of commercial real estate to residential properties.
Understanding Zoning: Historical Context and Impact
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around zoning laws and their historical backdrop. Zoning is described as a key reason preventing conversions due to rigid regulations that separate residential and commercial properties. The episode explores the racial and socio-economic implications of these laws, detailing how they have historically excluded certain communities from desirable neighborhoods.
Challenges of Building Conversions
The episode outlines the technical difficulties involved in converting offices into living spaces. The host interviews Bill Fulton, an urban planner, to explain that many modern office buildings are difficult to convert due to their design, typically featuring large floor plates that result in significant interior space without windows. In contrast, older buildings and shopping malls might offer more promise for redevelopment.
Community Resistance: The Role of Neighbors
Interviews with local government officials reveal another obstacle: community resistance, often referred to as NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard). Concerns about neighborhood character and property values make many locals resist new developments. The discussion highlights how public opinion can significantly impact zoning changes and property development projects.
Demographic Shifts and Future Solutions
The conversation touches on demographic changes that may alter the current resistance to development. Bill Fulton talks about the inevitable generational shifts that will bring new perspectives to housing issues. The host sums up that while converting offices to apartments is one part of the solution, a more comprehensive approach is needed to create affordable housing.
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Show notes
A re-air from August 2023:
Our quest for the answer to this one sends us over a hundred years into the past. We learn about the invisible rules and fights that determine what our neighborhoods look like. We also learn about houses with backyard roller coasters, tiny apartments inside of shopping malls, and then we think a little bit about death. Happy Friday!
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