Inclusive Housing Design Through Adaptive Reuse of Vacant Office Buildings in Jakarta

This study examines the housing preferences of young urban workers in Jakarta toward adaptive reuse of vacant office buildings in the city center. The rising number of empty office towers, expected to increase further following the relocation of Indonesia’s capital, presents a strategic opportunity for adaptive reuse as an affordable housing solution. Nevertheless, a research gap remains in understanding housing preferences within buildings that have been functionally transformed from office into residential use, particularly in relation to the needs of urban users. Adaptive reuse promotes sustainability by optimizing underutilized spaces and reducing the need for new construction. Key determinants of preference include accessibility to public transportation and proximity to workplaces. Most young professionals are willing and able to pay monthly rents between IDR 3–5 million, while informal workers possess lower purchasing power, requiring flexible housing options and rent subsidies. Preferences also vary by marital status: single residents prioritize social and independent living facilities, whereas married ones value green spaces and family comfort. These preference findings provide an important basis for formulating building transformation design strategies, particularly in aligning spatial configurations, facilities, and services with the needs of prospective occupants. The success of adaptive housing development demands supportive policies, coherent regulations, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and a nuanced understanding of residents’ affordability and willingness to pay (WTP).