Cordia UK: Birmingham’s first shared living scheme gains planning approval

Cordia UK, part of Europe’s prominent property development giant Futureal Group, has secured planning approval for Birmingham’s inaugural shared living scheme, Bradford Works. This pioneering development marks the city’s first purpose-built shared living project, aiming to provide an innovative housing solution tailored to the city’s dynamic demographic of young professionals, post-graduate students, and freelancers.

Located at the corner of Barr Street and Harford Street in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, Bradford Works will feature 54 en-suite studio units with distinct living and sleeping spaces, providing residents the comfort of a junior suite. Alongside privacy-focused units, residents will enjoy a host of state-of-the-art communal amenities designed to foster community, including lounges, professional-grade kitchens, dining spaces, work areas, a fitness studio, and a landscaped rooftop terrace.

The design reflects Cordia’s commitment to sustainability and heritage preservation. Bradford Works will be a 100% A-rated energy-efficient development, and its refurbishment will retain the character of the existing Jewellery Quarter building while enhancing its historical essence.

“Receiving planning approval for Bradford Works is a major step forward,” said Andras Kárpáti, CEO of Cordia UK. “This development will fulfill the housing needs of Birmingham’s vibrant young population, where those under 34 now make up 75% of the city centre’s residents. Bradford Works reimagines the HMO model, elevating it to meet the standards of build-to-rent with a focus on affordability, modern living, and sustainability.”

Cordia’s research shows a growing demand for rental accommodation in Birmingham. In 2022, 22.6% of the city’s households were privately rented—a number projected to rise to 26% within five years. In the city centre, where over half of households are already rentals, this figure is expected to reach 63%. Bradford Works will address this surge by offering all units as affordable homes, aligning with the West Midlands Combined Authority’s income-based affordability standards.

“This project reflects our dedication to urban revitalization,” stated Tibor Földi, Chairman of Cordia Group. “As we expand in five countries, including the UK, our work in Birmingham underscores our commitment to urban regeneration and sustainable living.”

Cordia’s Co-Founder, Gábor Futó, highlighted Futureal Group’s extensive experience: “With over 240 projects in seven countries, Futureal Group has become an international leader in urban regeneration. We’re excited to bring our expertise to Birmingham and contribute to the UK’s thriving development landscape.”

Cordia UK’s investment in the West Midlands also includes The Bank and The Gothic, mixed-use and residential projects that are revitalizing Great Hampton Street. Bradford Works is anticipated to open its doors in 2026, aligning with Cordia’s vision of transforming underutilized areas into vibrant, community-oriented spaces.