Turning vacancy into opportunity: a commercial case from Helsingør

When vacant buildings become a home: lessons from Helsingør

Across Europe, cities and municipalities are facing two challenges at the same time: a growing shortage of affordable housing and an increasing number of vacant or underused buildings. Helsingør, a coastal city in Denmark, shows that these two problems can be addressed together — if public and private partners are willing to think differently.

In Snekkersten, a former care home has been temporarily transformed into a vibrant housing community for 60 young residents up to 30 years old. What was once an empty building remaining vacant during a transitional phase, is now home to dozens of residents who were actively looking for an affordable place to live.

This project was highlighted by a local newspaper, not because of its scale, but because of its impact.

From vacancy to value

Vacancy is often seen as a waiting phase, a building “in between” functions. In reality, long‑term vacancy creates social, financial and urban risks: deterioration, loss of value, and missed opportunities for the surrounding area.

In Helsingør, the decision was made to take a different approach. Instead of leaving the building unused while waiting for a permanent redevelopment, the property was given a temporary residential function. The result: affordable housing, immediate use of existing space, and renewed energy in the neighbourhood.

Temporary does not mean low quality. The building offers private rooms, shared facilities and a strong focus on community.

Why this matters for cities and property owners

What makes projects like this relevant is not only the social outcome, but also the strategic logic behind them.

For municipalities, temporary housing solutions can:

• Respond quickly to urgent housing needs

• Prevent neighbourhood decline caused by vacancy

• Create positive social narratives around underused real estate

For property owners, temporary use can:

• Reduce vacancy‑related risks and costs

• Protect the building while plans for the future are developed

• Generate income and social value at the same time

At Monoma we see temporary housing not as an exception, but as an integral part of modern real‑estate strategies. Helsingør is a strong example of how value can be created today, while keeping tomorrow fully open.