Arbor Grande – Operational Value-Add Through Micro-Unit Conversion

  • Type: Property Management / Adaptive Reuse

  • Location: Olympia, WA

  • Units: 25 Units + 1 Converted Studio (In Progress)

  • Role: Pro Forma Modeling, Site Strategy, Architecture + Permitting

  • Outcome: Conversion of underutilized leasing office into a rentable micro-unit for added NOI

Arbor Grande is a private, upscale 25-unit apartment community in the heart of Olympia. While managing this stabilized asset in-house, I identified an opportunity to unlock additional income through the adaptive reuse of an unused 250 sq. ft. leasing office. What was previously used for storage became the foundation for a compact, high-efficiency studio unit designed to generate new rental income and improve the property's operating performance.

My Role & Contributions

  • Visited site during property walkthrough and identified underutilized leasing office space

  • Proposed conversion into a micro-unit studio with private bath and kitchenette

  • Modeled the updated pro forma showing rent uplift and payback period

  • Collaborated with architect to create a space-efficient layout including:

    • Retractable bed frame

    • Compact appliances

    • Smart storage

    • Shower stall + water-saving fixtures

  • Produced detailed architectural drawings and submitted for permit approval

  • Coordinated with local contractor for cost estimation and schedule

  • Created interior rendering for marketing and internal approval

  • Oversaw project tracking during bidding and early construction phase

Drawings

Results & Takeaway

This project reflects how space awareness can translate directly into value. By turning a forgotten leasing office into a marketable studio unit, we improved NOI with minimal capex. My architectural skills helped us move quickly from concept to permits — proving that good design, even in small spaces, can drive real financial results

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