Nyanza Terrace
A Vision Unfulfilled: Converting A Historic Hotel into Modern Flats
The background
A former hotel
in lovely Swansea
Originally a hotel, 4 Nyanza Terrace offered a prime location in Swansea, Wales, making it an attractive investment opportunity for conversion into residential flats. HMO Architects recognised the client’s vision to create a fresh space with five distinct units, each providing inviting, modern living arrangements. Our team stepped in to help shape this vision into a feasible, welcoming design.
Project Details
Location: Swansea
Value: £85,000 → £260,000
Rental: £350 pcm → £2,500 pcm
Timeline: 5-6 months
The Numbers
Home Buyer Report: £400
Refurbishment Costs: £85,000
Architect: £10,000
Furniture: £5,000
Annual Rental Income: £30,000 pa
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The brief
Smooth sailing in the early stages
HMO Architects was tasked with turning this historic hotel into five stylish flats, aligning with planning approval and moving smoothly through building control, interior design, and tendering. From securing necessary approvals to refining a unique, resident-focused interior design, we collaborated closely with our clients, ensuring each proposal reflected quality and value.
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The challenges
Facing costs, contractors, and complex party wall awards
Despite our detailed planning, construction costs soon became a significant hurdle, with tenders exceeding budget projections. Additionally, securing a contractor was challenging due to limited interest in the development. We also tried to manage complications with the party wall award after the neighbouring property reported leaks, which led to minor damages. Although our clients loved the interior design proposals, after a thorough assessment, they ultimately decided not to proceed with the project.
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Project Timeline
Apr 2018
Found Property
Sept 2018
Exchanged
Apr 2019
Refurb Starts
Sept 2019
Refurb Complete
Oct 2019
Tenants Move in
Project Scope
→ Design Appraisal
→ Existing Drawings
→ Concept Drawings
→ Full Planning Permission Application
→ Building Regulation Drawings & Application
→ Construction Project Management
→ Interior Design
→ Furniture Selection
→ HMO Licencing
→ 3D Virtual Tour
Related Project
From Family Home to Spacious HMO
Location: Swansea
Value: £85,000 → £260,000
Rental: £350 pcm → £2,500 pcm
Timeline: 5-6 months