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Home Offices & Services
The number of individuals working from home has increased steadily throughout the nation and region, and all indications suggest a continuation of the trend as the U.S. economy evolves to include more internet-connected work environments.  Over fifty million Americans currently work from home offices, and the demand for live-work units to better accommodate both residential and commercial uses will likely increase.  Given the desirability of living and working within Northwest Lower Michigan and technological advancements which make it possible to conduct work from virtually anywhere in the world, the interest in live-work units has risen as increasing numbers of artisans (e.g., photographers, painters, weavers), tradesmen (e.g., mechanics, builders), and professionals (e.g., engineers, lawyers, accountants, financial advisors) conduct business from their homes.

Live-work units provide an alternative housing and business option which can be adapted to different uses over time.  Live-work units offer communities a way to attract and retain small businesses which might otherwise not be economically viable if individuals had to pay both a residential and commercial mortgage; they also facilitate a broader mix of uses in residential areas within walking distance of retail and support services.  Local jurisdictions should update their ordinances to allow and encourage live-work units within residential and commercial areas.

  


Bed & Breakfast within a residential neighborhood, Traverse City, Grand Traverse County
 

Designing Live-Work Units
Integrating live-work units into a neighborhood involves designing or adapting buildings to complement and enhance existing structures – whether residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. Distinct entrances for residential and commercial uses clearly separate these uses within the building and ensure adequate privacy and security for residents. Design of live-work units that considers signage, noise, lights, odors, parking, and customer-generated traffic minimizes the potential negative impact on other residents. Given the diversity of development types within the region, the specific characteristics of live-work units will depend on their location (i.e., low-, medium-, or high-density residential or commercial). For specifics related to site design of live-work units, please refer to the pertinent Critical Design Practices, Residential, and Commercial sections.