Mixed-use development is the perfect solution for the increasing population of the global society. In the United States, a survey indicates that the projected growth of the population is 2.5 billion, with most of them living in cities. To handle this problem, these developments are an optimal solution.

Mixed-Use Development  - A Convenient Combination

A productive approach towards efficient urban planning. This development is comprised of multiple services provided in a single place. These developments aim to efficiently use the land in the most productive way. The following are a few examples that are accumulated in these developments:

• Residential

• Commercial

• Institutional

• Cultural

• Entertainment

What are the Types of Such a Development?

Depending on their layout and scale, there are two main types of this development, which are as follows:

1. Horizontal Mix Use Development

This development uses multiple lands, which consist of various buildings. Each of these buildings serves a different purpose. In a horizontal development, a single area is appointed that will deliver specific services. Where some areas are for commercial use,  others may be used for entertainment.

2. Vertical Mix Use Development

This development is the complete opposite of the above. Instead of different buildings, this development uses a single building where all the activities are pooled. This is the most common type of mixed development, where in a building, a hotel will be situated in the lower floors with residential apartments on the top ones.

What perks can this type of development offer?

Now that we have understood what this development means, let's explore what advantages it offers:

1. Productive Land Usage

By accumulating multiple purposes in a single area, the performance efficiency of a land increases immensely. This efficiency can contribute greatly towards decreased structural costs and improve financial returns

2. Increment in the property value

These developments, because of their versatility, can lead to high property values in the future. Creating a community by amalgamation of residential, commercial, and leisure, increases their demands.

Just imagine the convenience of living and working in the same place, and in your free time, having the luxury of relaxing.

3. Amplifies the local economy

Having everything in a single location increases foot traffic to a great extent. These developments are known for providing the comfort of everything in a proximity.

These developments also boost the economy by elevating local businesses and attracting new investors. 

4. Numerous Job Opportunities

Along with improving the economy, these developments also create numerous job opportunities. Do not only think about construction because it also provides post-construction job creation. Such as in retail, hospitality, management, and maintenance.

5. Social and community growth

These types of developments contribute efficiently towards social connectivity and community growth. Having diverse spaces in a unified environment can significantly promote community life.

The above are some of the major benefits of this type of development. But, with such promising benefits, these developments do come with some limitations.

Limitations associated with a Mixed-Use Design

Here the the most troublesome limitations a mixed-use development has to face:

• Financial Constraints

The most prominent limitation is acquiring and managing finances. For this type of development, even for the planning phase, you need a higher upfront cost. On the other hand, it is understandable that the larger a project, the more complex the finances, thus giving rise to various risks.

Solution

The only solution is to hire an excellent and experienced construction cost estimating firm. They will perform each step proactively with detailed planning and effective control management for each aspect. From Construction Takeoff for all the resources to managing risks associated with them, they will ensure accuracy and timely results.

• Zoning Regulations

When it comes to regulations, each construction category has its own unique regulations that must be followed. But, for a mixed-use development, which comprises various categories, following zoning regulations can be quite complex. Along with that, a mixed-use developer also needs to follow standard codes for their MEP system installation, and without proper guidance, that can backfire and cause you costly reworks.

Solution

In the United States, many cities are now reforming their zoning regulations for this type of development, thus making the process relatively easier. 

On the other hand, the problem of following MEP system standards can efficiently be eradicated by hiring professional MEP Estimating Services. These professionals are not only responsible for coating, but they also ensure that the relevant standards will be followed for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems installation.

Closing Note

Mixed-use development in construction has completely changed the way of living. This development has easily solved the problem of urbanization. Not only that, but this development also reduces carbon footprint to a great degree, thus making a more sustainable choice. This development is an ideal option for handling the concerns of economic recession and the unavailability of land. Furthermore, we have discussed these developments in detail, along with what benefits they offer and what kind of challenges there are to deal with.