Vertical Extensions – Establishment of Rooftop Dwellings in Existing Multi-Storey Buildings

Although the spatial potential for establishing rooftop dwellings has been discussed for many years, development is progressing slowly. Based on this knowledge, the project Vertical Extensions examines what specifically hinders the scaling of vertical densification – and, most importantly, what is needed to mature the market and engage the right stakeholders.

Smith Innovation collaborates with Tegnestuen LOKAL and Structural Collective to identify knowledge gaps and business models that can make vertical densification happen in practice – and, in the long term, become an attractive and scalable alternative to new construction and demolition.

The project focuses on larger Danish cities, as this is where the significant demand for housing is particularly evident.

In the project, Smith delivers:

• Project management
• Communication with external partners – developers, clients, social housing associations, etc.
• Establishment of advisory groups consisting of developers and suppliers, and facilitation of workshops
• Market potential analysis
• Validation of potential business models
• A concluding webinar aimed at sharing the knowledge generated through the project

In practice, the project involves mapping an ecosystem of stakeholders with the potential to contribute to the scaling of vertical densification projects and developing concepts for scalable business models that can be tested and further refined. In addition, the project will highlight the overall potential of vertical densification in terms of CO₂ and biodiversity savings, as well as the economic, legal, and business challenges that currently stand in the way. Finally, the project focuses on knowledge sharing through the presentation of a roadmap for industry stakeholders, outlining how they can organize themselves to contribute to vertical densification.