Quality: 1 - Punto

Norwich Council Houses in Goldsmith Street

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Norwich Council Houses in Goldsmith Street

Financing Financial actors Public funding
Urban Design Environments Quality Liveability Regulación Técnica
Promotion and production Public promotion
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

Goldsmith Street in Norwich exemplifies a rare phenomenon in the UK: rows of terraced houses constructed directly by the local council, leased with stable tenures at affordable social rents. This collection of 105 homes stands out as an epitome of top-notch architecture, showcasing the utmost environmental and social consciousness. It holds the distinction of being the largest Passivhaus project in the UK.

Date

  • 2019: Ganador
  • 2008: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Norwich Council
  • Architect: Cathy Hawley
  • Architect: Mikhail Riches

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Norwich, United Kingdom

Description

Goldsmith Street, an innovative development consisting of approximately 100 homes, was constructed by Norwich City Council, bypassing profit-driven developers. These homes epitomize true social housing, leased directly from the council with secure tenancies at fixed rates. Notably, they stand as some of the most energy-efficient residences ever erected in the UK, meeting the rigorous Passivhaus standards from Germany, resulting in a remarkable 70% reduction in fuel expenses for tenants.

Initially, the council had intended to sell the site to a local housing provider, but the plans were thwarted by the financial crisis. In 2012, the city made the bold decision to undertake the development itself, despite not having built homes for decades. Facing challenges, including the loss of around 500 council homes in recent years due to policies transferring public assets into private hands, Norwich navigated financial constraints. Current regulations allow councils to use only 30% of receipts from council home sales through the contentious right-to-buy policy to cover new home costs within a tight three-year timeframe. Nevertheless, Norwich found a solution, employing a combination of borrowing, funds from its housing revenue account, some right-to-buy receipts, and council reserves to proceed with the development independently, without a housing association or development partner.

London-based architects Mikhail Riches and Cathy Hawley won the competition for the site in 2008. Their proposal, distinguishing itself by advocating for streets over blocks of apartment buildings, was inspired by the Golden Triangle buildings, a coveted neighborhood characterized by Victorian terraced houses. This choice demonstrated a lesson in density, challenging planning norms by showcasing the possibility of maintaining humane scaling while accommodating more homes.

Extensive attention to detail is evident throughout the development, from the intricate brick balconies to the cleverly designed interlocking staircases in the three-story flats, ensuring each residence has its own street-facing entrance. Back gardens overlook planted alleys featuring communal tables and benches, while parking is relegated to the site's perimeter, prioritizing pedestrian-friendly streets.

In 2019, the buildings were awarded the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize. Norwich continues to advocate for innovative approaches to social housing, addressing financial and social constraints to further its endeavors in this regard.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Nettelbeckplatz renovation

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Nettelbeckplatz renovation

Mismatches Diversity Vulnerable groups
Promotion and production Cooperatives

Main objectives of the project

The Housing Cooperative Berliner Bau- und Wohnungsgenossenschaft von 1892 eG (referred to as 1892) embarked on an experimental and forward-thinking revitalization of a housing complex dating back to the 1970s. This renovation was guided by an award-winning collaborative process, engaging a broad coalition of architects, social and healthcare organizations, and research teams from the EU-funded DREEAM project, alongside residents, neighborhood committees, and 1892 staff. The approach adopted encompassed both conventional and innovative technological solutions, including the implementation of PV energy storage. Additionally, the initiative aimed to diversify the social composition of the neighborhood by inviting various groups to reside within the estate, such as singles, families, retirees, students, artists, couples, or occupants of shared flats. To address diverse needs, the architectural strategy incorporated adaptable housing sizes and layouts, as well as the transformation of existing units into communal and public spaces, fostering a heightened sense of community and belonging. The rent increased by 1.05€/m2, but this was outweighed by energy savings. The total costs were reduced.

Date

  • 2019: Rehabilitación

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Housing Cooperative 1892
  • Architect: tafkaoo architects

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Berlin
Country/Region: Berlin, Germany

Description

The cooperative housing estate "Nettelbeckplatz" traces its origins to the era of stringent refurbishment strategies of the 1970s, which aimed to replace the so-called "Mietskaserne" (tenants' barracks) characterized by dimly lit rear courtyards and inhospitable living conditions. During that time, an official renewal program mandated the complete demolition of these old building areas to construct "modern" social housing structures. In 1973, the housing cooperative "1892" participated in this program, erecting a building complex reaching up to seven levels high, situated in the traditional workers' quarter of Berlin-Wedding. The original 175 apartments were arranged around a verdant courtyard featuring playgrounds and recreational spaces. The cooperative served as the cornerstone for fostering a robust local community grounded in self-help, solidarity, and self-organization.

Four decades later, the effects of demographic shifts are evident, with over 40% of the residents surpassing the age of 65. Many inhabitants now require barrier-free accommodations or assisted living options. The once-vibrant community has seen a decline in vitality and influence within the neighborhood. Moreover, the state of the building structure has deteriorated, necessitating renovation. In addition to inadequate energy standards, certain entrance areas and floor plans no longer meet contemporary needs. Compounded by social issues in the surrounding disadvantaged area, an atmosphere of insecurity and social decline has emerged.

The renovation project focused on upgrading the thermal and technical conditions of the existing building. Measures included roof insulation, window replacement, and the installation of solar panels. Furthermore, to enhance comfort and reduce heating energy consumption, windows were substituted. Renewable energy production, utilizing photovoltaic panels on the roof for common areas, was augmented with a battery storage system (Tesla PowerWall) for optimal community utilization of generated energy. Elevators were also refurbished.

The open ground floor area, where security concerns such as drug consumption were prevalent, was closed off. However, the section connecting two courtyards remained open. New dwellings were constructed in these remaining ground floor spaces to accommodate student and elderly residents, alongside the addition of communal areas, fostering a more diverse and interconnected community.

Residents actively participated in the project, engaging in a study within the DREEAM project to monitor energy consumption trends in the neighborhood. A trained group of residents exhibited 30-50% lower energy consumption compared to the control group, showcasing significant energy savings. The reduction in energy consumption, as demonstrated by the DREEAM project, was as high as 50% compared to pre-renovation measurements.

This project serves as a blueprint not only within the housing cooperative "1892" but also for other community-oriented investors. In the context of increasing urbanization, particularly in Berlin, and to counteract speculation, interdisciplinary approaches are essential to synthesize quantified growth, intelligent building design, affordability, and social values into sustainable developments. This innovative project integrates various aspects, including the renewal and further development of housing estates through multi-building strategies and integration into the surrounding neighborhood area. Insights gleaned from this project could inform the development of similar urban strategies in the future. Additionally, the project underscores the value of employee motivation stemming from involvement in a European project, providing opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and learning from counterparts in other countries.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Gairloch Community Housing Trust

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Gairloch Community Housing Trust

Mismatches Price Services Diversity
Policies and regulations Land Governance
Financing
Promotion and production Public-private partnerships
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

Communities throughout the Highlands have experienced depopulation, diminishing services, and the complexities arising from growing tourism and housing prices. Consequently, there has been a depletion of existing housing options and heightened strain on remaining businesses and services. This situation has led to reduced accessibility to housing, land, and assets. However, the Gairloch initiative, through its Local Plan and Community Housing Trust, has initiated a transformation in housing policies within depopulated regions in Scotland.

Date

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Gairloch CHT

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: United Kingdom

Description

Situated on the coast of Wester Ross, in the northwest Highlands of Scotland, the village of Gairloch boasts a relatively small population of around 750 residents. Despite its size, Gairloch serves as the primary hub for the region, offering essential amenities such as shops, services, and a high school. Positioned within an Area of Outstanding Beauty (AOB), Gairloch has long been a destination favored by tourists.

The rise in second homes and holiday lets has contributed to a scarcity of available housing, driving prices beyond the means of local inhabitants. Consequently, the local school enrollment has declined, as families struggle to secure suitable and affordable accommodation. Additionally, young people facing similar housing obstacles, coupled with reliance on a low-wage seasonal tourism economy, are contributing to demographic shifts that could jeopardize the village's long-term viability.

Recognizing the pressing need for regeneration and addressing these issues, there was widespread community support for revitalizing the area. The Community Housing Trust (CHT) spearheaded a collaborative effort, convening a steering group comprising over 50 representatives from local organizations, landowners, and the public sector. Their goal was to maximize the potential of a derelict site and adjacent land to meet the multifaceted needs of the community.

The Achtercairn development emerged as a mixed-use project, combining affordable housing with various tenures and facilities catering to social, commercial, educational, and training needs. Notably, CHT introduced an innovative legal concept known as the Rural Housing Burden title condition, which offers a percentage discount from the market value while granting full ownership to the property owner. This mechanism ensures long-term affordability, yet CHT retains the right to repurchase homes and prioritize locals in allocation policies.

Collaborating with local, regional, and national partners, the development delivered 25 highly energy-efficient homes across two phases, facilitated by CHT, Albyn Housing Association, and the Highland Council. These homes offer a mix of social rent, low-cost homeownership, and rent-to-buy options. The success of the Achtercairn project has paved the way for similar community-led initiatives, such as the ongoing work in the crofting community of Staffin in Skye. Here, a mixed-use development is underway, providing affordable housing alongside commercial opportunities and essential services, demonstrating a scalable model to address rural inequality and combat the climate crisis.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Aalborg East - from an isolated vulnerable area to an inclusive community

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Aalborg East - from an isolated vulnerable area to an inclusive community

Policies and regulations Local policies Land Building capacity Public-private initiatives Participatory processes
Urban Design Urban fabrics Liveability Inclusion Participatory processes
Promotion and production Participatory processes
Ownership and tenure Protection of social housing

Main objectives of the project

An isolated an deprived residential area in Denmark's fourth-largest city had, since its construction in the 1960s and 70s, experienced increasing decline and negative spiral. Now, Aalborg East is a mixed community, with a vivid atmosphere and centered on the well-being of its citizens. It has become a story of success in social housing policies in Europe.

Date

  • 2023: Ganador
  • 2011: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Constructor: Himmerland Boligforening
  • Promotor: Aalborg Municipality

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Denmark

Description

Aalborg East, originally established as a satellite city in the 1970s, faced significant challenges over the past years, characterized by deteriorating old buildings, primarily comprised of social housing, and a declining economy leading to escalating issues of unemployment and crime. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, a comprehensive urban transformation initiative was launched, encompassing the renovation of over 2,000 affordable homes. This ambitious endeavor was guided by two fundamental principles: the promotion of a diverse community and the active engagement of local residents throughout the process. Thus, homes were renovated, new shops were added, private homes were built and several social initiatives were adopted. Residents sat at the table as urban planners, so no homes have been demolished, and no residents have been displaced.

The whole process has been vastly affected by tenant democracy. There were building committees consisting of tenants, and every major decision was made at attendant meetings. Strong and strategic partnerships with both the public and private sector were also central because a housing association cannot do it all by themselves. For example, construction fields have been sold to private investors to densify some areas with freestanding house blocks and to diversify the economy.

In conclusion, the renovations were completed by using a variety of building types, appealing to a wider residential composition. Moreover, new infraestructure was put in place to foster the new mixed community. For instance, a new health house was built where training courses are in place, which makes the area more visible for people who would not visit Aalborg East daily. It is fair to say that the Danish social housing provider Himmerland Boligforening went further than usual, leading the way in Europe on how to integrate social housing tenants in the strategic city development as well as making them active city planners. The results are astonishing. Now Aalborg East is an area of well-being with safe areas, no crime, and great economic growth.

In 2023, the project won the NEB awards in “Prioritising the places and people that need it the most”.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Apartments for graduates - Affordable housing to retain talent

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Apartments for graduates - Affordable housing to retain talent

Promotion and production Public promotion

Main objectives of the project

Many recent graduates struggle to find a housing option. Despite its instability in the working market, they are not eligible for public loans or the vast majority of social housing options. The result is that they are forced to leave the city. Poznan faced the challenge to retain talent to help its economy while rental prices are at its highest point. For this reason, the Poznań Social Housing Association (PTBS) created “Apartments for graduates”. The programme consists of a promotion of social housing whose target are recent graduates under 36. Moreover, the programme also supports universities and local employers who gain young and qualified staff.

Date

  • 2015: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Poznań Social Housing Association (PTBS)

Location

Country/Region: Poland, Poznan

Description

Numerous European cities are currently grappling with housing challenges, with adequate housing being a crucial component of overall quality of life. A segment of the population significantly impacted by steep apartment rents is young adults, with studies, and embarking on their independent lives. Typically earning modest incomes and often ineligible for loans, they find themselves financially constrained. Conversely, individuals from Generation Y exhibit a willingness to relocate for promising job opportunities without wanting to commit to substantial financial obligations. In 2015, recognizing this dilemma, the Poznań Social Housing Association (PTBS) launched an initiative titled "Apartments for Graduates" aimed at addressing the housing needs of university graduates and retaining young talent within the city.

This program offers affordable rental rates coupled with favorable housing conditions, leading to a surge in demand for its flats. Applicants undergo a selection process based on specific criteria of income, qualification, jobs opportunities... Successful tenants sign agreements for a fixed term of 10 years, after which apartments are reallocated. They then have the option to enter into indefinite tenancy agreements for other PTBS properties or participate in a rent-to-own scheme.

The existing housing estate comprises five residential buildings encompassing 143 apartments, including 77 one-room and 66 two-room units, along with two underground parking facilities. Situated in close proximity to amenities such as a city park, forest, and astronomy dome, the area is characterized by abundant light and green spaces while being conveniently located near the city center and its well-established infrastructure. Rent levels are tailored to the financial capabilities of young individuals, and apartment sizes and locations are aligned with their requirements.

While the primary objective of the program is to provide quality housing for young people, it also serves to foster the city's overall development. By attracting and retaining educated youth, it contributes to economic and social progress, fostering a vibrant community. Furthermore, the initiative benefits local universities and employers by supplying them with a pool of qualified, young professionals. Applicants are required to contribute to the city's development through tax payments.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Tolerantes Miteinander (“Living Together In Tolerance”)

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Tolerantes Miteinander (“Living Together In Tolerance”)

Mismatches Segregation Cultural suitability Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations Participatory processes
Promotion and production Public promotion

Main objectives of the project

Berlin faced a double problem: housing shoratge for new residents and substandard housing solutions for refugees. Yet, a new solution was organized to tackle both of the issues. On the one hand, rather than building shelters for refugees with fences and guards, contributing to stigmatization, Berlin built a more permanent and dignified housing solution for long-term refugees. On the other hand, to avoid segregation, these housing units were mixed with new residential options for new berliners coming to live to the city. A model with inclusivity at its heart.

Date

  • 2021: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Degewo

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Berlin
Country/Region: Berlin, Germany

Description

Berlin is experiencing growth, with an increasing need for housing, including for refugees. However, relying solely on emergency shelters is not a sustainable solution. In 2016, the public company Degewo initiated a pioneering project in the Köpenick area of Berlin called ToM – Tolerantes Miteinander ("living together in tolerance"). This project aimed to address the challenge of housing and integration by creating a neighborhood where old and new Berliners could become genuine neighbors.

Located in the Treptow-Köpenick district, which has a higher proportion of elderly residents and a relatively low immigrant population (3%), the project faced concerns from existing residents about accommodating refugees in the neighborhood. To address these concerns, the project prioritized early intervention to tackle prejudices and alleviate fears through transparent communication and ample information sharing. Thus, participatory and communitarian practices where set in place before the project was executed.

The overarching objective was to develop a sustainable urban concept that promoted integration through mixed-use residential construction. With funding from the state of Berlin, the project aimed to build 164 apartments, half of which would be allocated to refugees with residency rights, and the other half to non-refugee Berliners. The 1 to 5 room apartments have sizes from 39 m² to 109 m². From all the apartments available, 133 apartments are subsidized and are offered for an average of 6.50 euros/m² net. A residence permit is required.

The project achieved diversity through communal spaces such as tenant gardens, shared rooms offering language courses and collaborative cooking sessions, and a residents' café. Long-term residents were encouraged to support newcomers through language assistance and help with bureaucratic procedures, fostering a sense of community. As a result, today, residents from 17 different countries peacefully coexist, fostering pride in their diverse community and positive relationships with neighboring areas. Multicultural activities are celebrated and viewed as an asset, providing residents with opportunities for independent living, education, and social interaction within their neighborhood.

Additionally, the project established a "ToM office" staffed by social workers provided by the Internationaler Bund (IB), funded by Degewo for the initial two years. These workers offer free support and advice on various issues, including family matters, health, finances, education, residence, and employment. The project also provides communal spaces and encourages sponsorships between tenants, while a multilingual caretaker is available to mediate conflicts and assist residents as needed.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

APROP - Provisional Local Accommodations

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APROP - Provisional Local Accommodations

Mismatches Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations Building capacity
Promotion and production Public promotion Innovation Materials Technology Industrialisation

Main objectives of the project

APROP is an innovative housing program designed to offer affordable, sustainable, and high-quality emergency accommodation to households facing eviction, all within their own neighborhoods. Utilizing a unique construction system built around reused shipping containers, the program prioritizes energy efficiency and innovative solutions for social housing schemes.

Date

  • 2019: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Constructor: Barcelona City Hall
  • Constructor: IMHAB

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Barcelona
Country/Region: Spain

Description

APROP (an acronym for Proximity Temporary Affordable Housing, also meaning "nearby" in Catalan), utilizing industrialized methods and recycled shipping containers, represents a municipal commitment to innovation in addressing the housing emergency. Inspired by successful projects in cities like London, Copenhagen, and Vancouver, this model offers fast, sustainable, and quality housing to prevent displacement and gentrification. Promoted by the Barcelona City Council's Department of Social Rights, the programme aims to provide temporary accommodation while more permanent but slower housing solutions are developing. APROP buildings will be distributed across the ten city districts in empty sites awaiting public facilities or permanent housing projects. The first one is already in operation in the Ciutat Vella central district and it includes 12 dwellings. APROP Ciutat Vella is a compact, 5-storey corner volume on a 186m² plot. It hosts the extension of a health facility on the ground floor and 12 dwellings on the four upper floors. All the housing units feature a living room with an open kitchen and fully accessible bathrooms. The smaller ones, 30m², have a double bedroom, while the bigger ones, 60m², include two bedrooms. The outdoor facades fully respect the landscape of the old city centre. The second generation of APROP buildings have already been built in Glòries. Every building in the programme is the result of an open competition demanding the implementation of a lightweight, dry and modular construction system based on reused shipping containers. The use of shipping containers significantly reduces environmental impacts while shortening construction times. The system is perfectly dismountable, transportable and adaptable to further locations.

APROPs serve as temporary housing and provide socio-educational support to individuals and families at risk of social exclusion, referred by social services due to unstable housing situations. With a focus on enhancing autonomy and self-sufficiency, the program emphasizes labor and training support, as well as fostering economic savings during the residency period. This comprehensive approach aims to facilitate a transition to stable housing alternatives.

Designed for temporary use, APROPs allows residents to remain close to their communities. Shipping containers are repurposed into one- or two-bedroom accommodations, featuring natural lighting, ventilation, outdoor spaces, and functional furnishings. High-quality insulation and spatial performance systems ensure thermal, acoustic, and lighting comfort for occupants. Overall, APROPs offer a holistic approach to temporary housing, integrating social support services with sustainable construction practices to address housing insecurity and promote community stability.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Villaggio Gandusio - Fight Energy Poverty and Act on the Community

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Villaggio Gandusio - Fight Energy Poverty and Act on the Community

Mismatches Segregation Functional adequacy Vulnerable groups Climate change
Policies and regulations Participatory processes
Promotion and production Public promotion Participatory processes

Main objectives of the project

Bologna is a vivid city, with a dynamic university atmosphere and a rich diversity of people and economy. Yet, rental prices are one of the highest in Italy. Moreover, the few social housing units that exist face two interrelated issues: building degradation and social vulnerability. To tackle both of them, the Municipality of Bologna started a refurbishment of Villaggio Gandusios social hosuing units. The goal was to make them ecologically resilient in a context of increasing heat waves while acting on their communities, building a stronger social engagement of the neighbours.

Date

  • 2018: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: ACER

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Bologna, Italy

Description

Over time, the public housing complex located at Via Gandusio no. 6-8-10-12 has not only suffered from typical physical deterioration but has also witnessed a rise in social tensions. This escalation is partly attributed to the clustering of vulnerable situations within the same environment, negatively impacting the overall housing quality and neighborhood dynamics. In response to these challenges, the Municipality of Bologna, operating through its management entity, ACER, initiated a comprehensive endeavor in 2018 to renovate the buildings and enhance energy efficiency. However, the primary aim extended beyond mere energy resilience of the buildings regarding heat waves. The main goal was to address the social needs of the residents.

The renovation process encompassed various measures, including upgrading façades with thermal insulation, improving maintenance of balconies, roofs, atriums, and stairwells, enhancing electrical and gas systems, replacing fixtures, and installing heat meters across 160 apartments and communal areas.

The overarching challenge was to transform one of the city's most problematic public housing areas into a hub of social innovation, serving as a model for potential replication. Villaggio Gandusio aimed to integrate seamlessly into the neighborhood fabric, prioritizing living quality and social inclusion through sustainable social diversity and collaborative projects. Achieving this objective necessitated coaching, social mediation, and fostering peaceful coexistence among residents. To facilitate this, dedicated facilitators maintained a permanent presence within the community, supplemented by training sessions to empower residents as facilitators themselves. The refurbishment office also housed social mediators who actively addressed conflicts and introduced digital communication channels for neighbor interactions.

Furthermore, efforts were made to enhance communal spaces and green areas through community-driven activities, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and unity among residents. A key aspect was promoting a more diverse community makeup, exemplified by an agreement with Er.go (Regional Authority for the Right to Higher Education) to allocate certain apartments to low-income university students engaged in community care projects, particularly assisting residents' children with after-school activities, which proved to be highly successful.

This transformative project turned Via Gandusio from a conflict-ridden and neglected area into a beacon of civic engagement and cooperation between residents and public institutions, serving as a blueprint for similar interventions in other large social housing complexes. Through the dedicated efforts of social mediators, this approach instilled a positive sense of community, empowered residents, nurtured care and respect for shared resources, and facilitated the formation of self-support networks among neighbors.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Startblok - a social living project for integration

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Startblok - a social living project for integration

Mismatches Cultural suitability Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations Governance
Promotion and production Self-management

Main objectives of the project

Startblok is a housing project for young refugees who have recently received their residence permit (status-holders) and for young persons from the Netherlands. Pursuing a diverse community, a self-management governance and an affordability scheme opens the door to an innovative integration project in Amsterdam. A former sports-grounds next to the A10 highway in Amsterdam New West has been transformed into this pioneer housing project, aiming for a better understanding of social housing, mixture and community.

Date

  • 2015: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Key
  • Constructor: Municipality of Amsterdam

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Amsterdam
Country/Region: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Description

Startblok Riekerhaven is a collaborative housing initiative established by de Key in partnership with the municipality of Amsterdam and Socius Wonen. On July 1, 2016, the inaugural residents received keys to their new homes at Startblok Riekerhaven. Since its inception, fostering a sense of community has been paramount within this project. Residents are empowered to manage their own living spaces, with every aspect of Startblok designed to encourage effort and initiative from its inhabitants. Comprising 405 living spaces across 22 corridors, most of which feature communal living rooms, Startblok caters to young refugees with permanent residence permits as well as other Dutch youth, facilitating integration and interaction among them. Applicants must be between 18 and 27 years old, with all status holders engaged in language courses and either internships or vocational training, alongside access to on-site psychological services.

Of the more than 400 living spaces, 303 are private studios equipped with individual facilities, while 102 are private rooms within apartments with shared amenities. Studios, averaging 23m2, boast personal kitchens and bathrooms and are clustered with 16 to 31 other residents, fostering socialization in communal areas. Meanwhile, the apartments include 42 units for two persons and six for three persons, with private bedrooms spanning approximately 12m2 or 14m2 and shared living rooms around 25m2. Rent prices, ranging from 350 to 430 Euros per month, significantly undercut the Amsterdam average.

Outdoor facilities at Startblok encompass sports fields and a clubhouse, with residents actively involved in creating BBQ areas, a swimming pool, and tending to vegetable gardens. Additionally, communal spaces are designed to facilitate socializing and organizing activities, with residents able to seek budgetary and organizational support from the Startblok Actief! foundation, managed by residents themselves.

Central to Startblok's ethos is its self-management governance model. Each corridor is overseen by one or two Hallway Managers responsible for maintaining communal areas and organizing activities, serving as the primary point of contact for residents in need. Five Social Managers ensure active engagement among residents and uphold standards of hygiene, safety, and livability. A general management team, composed of residents, handles accountability and day-to-day operations.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Celosia, Social Housing

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Celosia, Social Housing

Financing
Urban Design
Promotion and production
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

This social housing apartment building is located in PAU de Sanchinarro, a new neighbourhood situated on the northeast edge of Madrid. Blocks of eight houses are seen as separate prefabricated units, which are positioned in a checkerboard pattern next to and on top of each other, leaving openings for communal gardens in between.

Date

  • 2009: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Architect: Nathalie de Vries
  • Architect: Jacob van Rijs
  • Architect: Winy Maas
  • Architect: Blanca Lleó

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Madrid
Country/Region: Madrid, Spain

Description

The opening of the European borders has caused a real estate boom in Spain. The value has been in¬creased enormously, thus leading to an enormous production of housing. This operation is facilitated in Madrid by a giant new neighborhood that sur¬rounds the old city. A series of new cities that are mainly constructed of blocks that surround a pri¬vate patio, with a more or less introverted archi¬tecture with small windows, somehow opposes the extraverted Spanish culture.

In PAU de Sanchinarro, one of these new cities, situated on the northeast edge of Madrid, two plots are given to develop a possible “escape” from the uniformity and claustrophobia of this “sea of six-story-high blocks.”

The first escape’ in this neighborhood was the Sanchinarro Mirador (2005): an apartment build¬ing in which a huge void on the 15th floor offered an open view to the surrounding mountains and over the new neighborhood.

The second escape has been created by an “open¬ing” a given block on all levels. Blocks of eight houses are seen as separate prefabricated fig¬ures. They are positioned in a checkerboard pat¬tern next to and on top of each other in such a way that they leave openings for communal gardens in between. A perforated block appears, in which shadow and ventilation compensate for the strong climatic constraints. It creates views from the street through the building. It creates views from the houses to the surrounding area. It defends against the claustrophobic conditions of the existing developments

Authors:

Fundació Mies van der Rohe Barcelona