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Hosannahs – Port Talbot mixed use to residential change of use
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Change of Use7 Flats

Port Talbot

A comprehensive change of use project converting a mixed-use property with shop and one flat into seven self-contained residential flats, featuring facade alterations, rear dormer extension, and complete internal reconfiguration.

Port Talbot, Wales Mixed Use to 7 Flats Shop with 1 Flat Above Completed

1→7

Flat Conversion

7

New Entrances

1

Dormer Extension

100%

Reconfiguration

Transformation

Before & After

Hosannahs – Port Talbot | Before conversion – original mixed-use property
Before

Original mixed-use property

Hosannahs – Port Talbot | After conversion – street view
After

Converted to 7 self-contained flats

Hosannahs – Port Talbot | After conversion – night view
After

Night view of completed conversion

Project Overview

Mixed Use to Residential Conversion

This Port Talbot project represents an ambitious change of use conversion, transforming a traditional mixed-use property—comprising a ground floor shop with a single flat above—into seven self-contained residential units designed to meet modern housing needs.

The conversion involves extensive architectural work including the creation of seven separate entrances, ensuring each flat has independent access. The facade will be completely redesigned to reflect the property's new residential character while complementing the surrounding streetscape.

A key feature of this project is the rear dormer extension and conversion, achieved by carefully lowering the floor-to-ceiling height of the first floor. This innovative approach maximises the available living space within the existing building envelope while creating additional accommodation in the roof space.

The ground floor retail unit and first floor flat will undergo complete internal reconfiguration, with new partition walls, services, and layouts designed to create comfortable, practical homes that comply with all current building regulations.

Scope of Works

Ground Floor (Former Shop)

  • Retail to residential conversion
  • New flat layouts
  • Separate entrance provisions
  • Service installations

First Floor Reconfiguration

  • Floor level modifications
  • New flat configurations
  • Bathroom and kitchen provisions
  • Fire safety compliance

Rear Dormer Extension

  • New dormer construction
  • Additional living space
  • Roof alterations
  • Natural light optimisation

External Works

  • Facade alterations
  • Multiple entrance doors
  • Bin and cycle storage
  • External lighting
Property Details

Key Facts

LocationPort Talbot, Wales
Project TypeMixed Use to 7 Flats
Original UseShop with 1 Flat Above
New Use7 Self-Contained Residential Flats
StatusCompleted
AuthorityNeath Port Talbot Council
Outcome7 Residential Flats
ApproachFacade alterations, rear dormer, complete internal reconfiguration
Design Challenges

Complex Problems, Creative Solutions

01

Separated Entrance Design

Creating seven independent entrances from a single mixed-use property requires careful architectural planning. Our design ensures each flat has its own secure access while maintaining the building's structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

02

Floor-to-Ceiling Height Modification

Lowering the floor-to-ceiling height of the first floor to accommodate the rear dormer conversion presents unique structural challenges. This involves careful coordination between structural engineers and designers to maintain building regulations compliance.

03

Facade Alteration

Transforming the existing shop front and building facade to reflect residential use while respecting the local streetscape. The new facade design balances modern requirements with planning considerations for the Port Talbot area.

04

Internal Shop Reconfiguration

Converting the ground floor retail space into residential units requires complete reimagining of the internal layout, including new partition walls, services distribution, and compliance with residential building standards.

Mixed Use Conversions

Converting mixed-use properties to residential is an increasingly popular way to address housing demand while breathing new life into underutilised commercial spaces. These projects require expertise in both commercial and residential planning.

Key considerations include ensuring adequate natural light, ventilation, and amenity space for each unit, while meeting fire safety requirements for multiple occupancy buildings and providing appropriate refuse and cycle storage.

The Port Talbot project demonstrates how creative architectural solutions—such as dormer extensions and floor level modifications—can maximise the potential of existing buildings to deliver much-needed homes.

Our Contribution

Services We Provide

Change of use application
Facade alteration design
Rear dormer extension
Floor level modifications
Internal reconfiguration
Separated entrance design
Building regulations drawings
Planning submission

Planning a Mixed-Use Conversion?

Whether you're converting a shop with flat above, a commercial building, or exploring other change of use options, we can help maximise your property's potential.