Continent: Europe

Caserne de Reuilly

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Caserne de Reuilly

Mismatches Services Diversity
Urban Design Environments Liveability
Promotion and production Public promotion
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

The Caserne de Reuilly stands as a flagship urban renewal endeavor aimed at providing accessible housing solutions in the heart of Paris. As an integral component of the city's sustainable development strategy, this initiative marks a significant shift in repurposing former military infrastructure for social good. Under the joint efforts of the public housing entity Paris Habitat, municipal authorities, the State, and local stakeholders, the barracks underwent a comprehensive revitalization process, prioritizing circularity principles while preserving its historical significance. Amidst the backdrop of Paris' dense urban landscape, the transformation of Reuilly has not only addressed the shortage of affordable housing but also cultivated a diverse and inclusive community. Now encompassing a mix of affordable residences, student accommodations, childcare facilities, green spaces, and commercial establishments, the area has been transformed from a vacant lot into a thriving neighborhood, embodying the city's commitment to sustainable urban development.

Date

  • 2019: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Paris Habitat
  • Architect: NP2F
  • Architect: Lin Architects Urbanists
  • Architect: Mir Architectes
  • Architect: Charles-Henri Tachon
  • Architect: LACROIX CHESSEX

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Paris
Country/Region: France, Paris

Description

The history of the Caserne de Reuilly dates back to the 17th century, but by the early 21st century, the barracks were in dire need of refurbishment. Consequently, the city of Paris acquired the land from the Defense Ministry with the aim of rejuvenating the area. Collaborating with Paris Habitat, the site underwent a transformation into a new neighborhood featuring social housing, university residences, and commercial zones. The overarching goal was to preserve the historical character while introducing new spaces, fostering a diverse and mixed-use community. In total, the development comprises 582 housing units.

Paris Habitat demonstrated pioneering efforts by integrating the reuse of materials into the project. For instance, lighting fixtures, slates, and paving stones from the barracks were repurposed on-site. In addition to refurbishing the old barracks, new buildings were erected, such as those along Diderot Boulevard, which harmoniously blend with the existing architecture. These buildings incorporate 79 dwellings, a childcare facility, a public parking lot, and commercial spaces. The architectural design responds directly to the surrounding context while embracing contemporary elements, contributing to the coherence of the neighborhood. Addressing the space between the fire station, Reuilly barracks, and the new construction was a key challenge. The proposed structure aims to reconcile various geometries, resulting in a complex yet cohesive architectural form characterized by terraces and indentations. The inclusion of a square between the buildings encourages social interaction, while the lower volume's roof serves as a playground for the childcare facility, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

Similarly, the residential building known as plot B1, comprising 22 housing units, serves as an entry point to the barracks complex. Its colorful façade distinguishes it from the rest of the development while maintaining overall harmony, serving as a visible and inviting gateway to the barracks.

In essence, the new complex exemplifies how to create affordable housing while preserving public ownership, employing high-quality architecture, and embracing a variety of housing typologies to nurture a diverse and inclusive community.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Dublin City Housing Regeneration To Passive-Grade & Community Hub

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Dublin City Housing Regeneration To Passive-Grade & Community Hub

Mismatches Functional adequacy Vulnerable groups Climate change
Promotion and production Public promotion

Main objectives of the project

Municipal housing bedsits had become a problem for Dublin. Many of them remained vacant due to their small dimensions and deterioration. To tackle this issues, Dublin generated a pilot programme in one of the buildings containing this “zero-bed units”. In all, 22 bedsit apartments were amalgamated into eleven one-bed apartments as part of this phase of the project, undergoing a passive retrofit in the process. In addition, the community centre which forms part of the complex was also renovated to a very high standard.

Date

  • 2019: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: City of Dublin
  • Architect: Design & Kelliher Miller Architects
  • Passive House Academy
  • EU Horizon 2020 programme

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Dublin
Country/Region: Dublin, Ireland

Description

Decades ago, the local autohority of Dublin implemented the “zero-bed units” as a social housing solution. More than 1,500 bedsits of no more than 26 square meters were built across the city. However, due to its small dimensions, they became progressively unattractive. So, it began a vicious cycle of vacancy, dilapidation and social deterioration. To stop this cycle, the local authorities started a retrofit programme whose goal was to provide tenants with more space, rebuilding the housing units pursuing the transformation into a passive house while pushing for an active community of tenants.
The programme started with the refurbishment of 22 bedsit apartments. They were amalgamated into eleven one-bed apartments as part of this phase of the project, undergoing a passive retrofit in the process. In addition, the community centre which forms part of the complex was also renovated to a very high standard.
Provided the vast majority of tenants were elderly people facing fuel poverty, the passiv house permitted a low-cost and low-maintance energy installations, while improving the health thanks to the clean air generated. The project was certified by MosArt on 1 May 2019, with a space heating demand of 21 kWh per square metre per year, comfortably below the threshold of 25. The newly upgraded apartments have vastly improved thermal performance – up to 80% better than the previous units – and are fully compliant with the current building regulations. Because the apartments will remain in the ownership of the council in the years ahead, one eye is kept on long-term maintenance issues.
How was the passive house achieved? A combination of Blowerproof paint-on airtightness sealant applied at junctions of floors and walls, Siga membranes and tapes at ceiling, and tapes to external windows and doors achieved an average standard of 0.55 air changes per hour (better than the passive house standard of 0.6, never mind the Enerphit standard of 1.0). Achieving these levels of airtightness, especially on retrofit is a result of an excellent teamwork. In terms of external insulation, it was deployed to achieve the requisite U-values on the walls and to eliminate thermal bridges. To the same end, a large concrete eave to the front of the building had to be cut away and the new eave wrapped in insulation. Ceiling heights were very restricted and existing walls also caused problems, so the Council had to work with confined spaces while at the same time trying to keep duct lengths as short as possible. Each of the is equipped with a Nilan Compact P exhaust air heat pump, which provides space and water heating, and ventilation. Insulation is accessible and replaceable (some of them have to be replaced every fifteen years).
The actions were finished in 2019 with a budget of €1.7million.
The central achievement of the retrofit is the ability to transform an outdated building with social and climatic issues into a larger, more comfortable, healthier and more cost-efficient social housing project. It is a clear example of how we can maintain the existing housing units, yet making them a resilient and community centered buildings with a social purpose.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Le Chaperon-Vert (Îlot 5)

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Le Chaperon-Vert (Îlot 5)

Mismatches Functional adequacy Climate change
Urban Design Environments Liveability
Promotion and production Public promotion
Ownership and tenure Protection of social housing

Main objectives of the project

Constructed in the 1950s on land previously occupied by market gardens and a shanty town, Chaperon-Vert briefly claimed the title of the largest low-cost housing estate (HLM) in Île-de-France. Over fifty years later, the district initiated an urban renewal project (ORU) under the auspices of the National Agency for Urban Renovation (ANRU). The decade-long renovation endeavor for Le Chaperon-Vert culminated with the refurbishment of the final block, Building Number 5, encompassing six buildings and a total of 264 housing units.

Date

  • 2019: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Architect: L’agence RVA
  • Architect: Jacques Poirier
  • Promotor: National Agency for Urban Renovation (ANRU)

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Paris
Country/Region: France, Paris

Description

The overarching objective of the renovation project was to enhance the comfort, design, and energy efficiency of the buildings, within the context of a 1960s structure in urgent need of attention. Like many similar housing estates of its time, Chaperon-Vert faced challenges such as space constraints due to surrounding roads and parking lots, leading to significant noise and air pollution as well as a lack of communal green areas. Social issues and energy inefficiency were pressing concerns necessitating urban and housing interventions. "Îlot 5," comprising six buildings, marked the culmination of this ambitious endeavor on the Arcueil side. The architects aimed to preserve and amplify the urban coherence of the complex by restoring its classic modern extrados through the enhancement of concrete structures and brick infills. They also sought to establish a local public park to reflect the scale of the residence and address contemporary housing quality standards through light extensions around the garden that harmonized with the existing rhythm.

The intervention involved several key aspects. Initially, restoration efforts focused on the metal shutters and other facade elements, while balconies were replaced with perforated metal to afford greater privacy, matching the color scheme of the extensions. Additionally, interior facades received a light sand-colored aluminum envelope, and a prefabricated reinforced concrete system was installed with brick panel infills. Notably, approximately 1,000 square meters of living space were added by thickening the walls.

Five previously marginalized squares within the district underwent complete redevelopment to improve access to the block's core, foster biodiversity, and introduce new exchange spaces, transforming former parking-dominated areas into vibrant green public spaces. Tenant consultations were conducted to co-design the future of Chaperon-Vert and indoor housing conditions. Energy efficiency was significantly improved, with all homes now achieving a label C energy performance rating (annual consumption less than 150 kWh/square meters) through equipment upgrades and facade enhancements.

The outcome of the intervention is evident in the transformation of 264 dwellings into 249, with 157 renovated or restructured and 92 extended. At the heart of the revitalized enclave lies a landscaped square featuring play and relaxation areas alongside fruit trees.

This final intervention seamlessly aligns with the overarching renovation project, with seven distinct work sites established, each reflecting its unique identity. While red brick remains prominent on the street-facing side (albeit cleaned facades), various facades within the blocks retain their distinct characteristics. Notably, Building Number 5 stands out with its glossy golden metal finish.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Homma Himaan- Homes That Work

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Homma Himaan- Homes That Work

Mismatches Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

Homma Himaan was a service that supports young people in finding a home and work in one ‘package’.

It gave 18–26-year-old adults the possibility of combining housing and part-time employment. Homma himaan worked via a digital apartment and job search platform.

Date

  • 2018: Implementation

Stakeholders

  • Nuorisosäätiö
  • Setlementtiasunnot
  • Y-Foundation
  • Helsinki Youth Department

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Helsinki
Country/Region: Finland, Helsinki

Description

Homma Himaan was a pilot program, closed in 2018. However, the results and the idea are fascinating due to their integration of youth policies, employment and housing. Provided you had entered the program, as a tenant you were offered a work and a house. The tenants received a salary for the work done for the good of the neighbourhood.

Tasks included, for instance, working as the property manager’s assistant, helping out elderly residents and developing the operations on shared premises. This allowed the residents to compensate part of their rent through work. The aim was to support the youth on their path to independence and at the same time create their own well-being within the residential community around them.

The initiative involved Helsinki Youth Department and social housing providers in Helsinki, such as Y-Foundation, Setlementtiasunnot, Nuorisosäätiö and Nuorisoasuntoliitto/NAL-Asunnot (and the aim is to further spread it across the country). Employee (that are also tenants) determines the working hours, depending on their needs. Yet, residents decide on the content of their work.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

HomeLab: Integrating social housing and employment

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HomeLab: Integrating social housing and employment

Mismatches Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations Local policies Public-private initiatives
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

Facing the housing problems also means facing a vulnerability issue. Without giving people the empowerment to maintain themselves, housing will continue to be an issue for those who struggle to get a job or who need social services support. For this reason, HomeLab designed a Social Rental Enterprise model that has been implemented in four Central European countries – Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The model integrates the needs people face in the labour market and in the housing system.
HomeLab is funded under EU Programme for Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI).

Date

  • 2019:

Stakeholders

  • Metropolitan Research Institute (Városkutatás Kft.)
  • EASI programme
  • FEANTSA
  • Habitat Poland
  • Romodrom
  • Hungarian Charity Service of Malta

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Budapest
Country/Region: Budapest, Hungary

Description

The Social Rental Enterprise (SRE) model builds upon the foundation laid by existing Social Rental Agencies (SRAs) in various EU countries, including Belgium, Ireland, Italy, and France. These SRAs serve as vital mediators between private landlords and individuals facing housing challenges, facilitating affordable rental agreements for low-income tenants while providing assurances to landlords.

Expanding upon this groundwork, the Social Rental Enterprise model recognizes the intrinsic connection between housing and employment issues. It operates on the premise that addressing both concurrently is crucial for empowering individuals to maintain their homes and secure sufficient income. By integrating labor and social services with housing support, the SRE endeavors to break the cycle of poverty and bolster the sustainability of intervention outcomes, aiming to reinforce one another.

The SRE's core assumption is that enabling clients and their families to support themselves is essential for successful integration. By simultaneously addressing labor market and housing integration, the SRE strives to enhance clients' abilities to enter and sustain positions in the housing and labor markets. The provision of additional social services within the SRE framework further enhances clients' prospects for improved stability and security in these realms.

In the realm of housing services, the Social Rental Enterprise (SRE) functions either as the overseer of municipal housing stock, particularly if it owns or operates social housing on behalf of the municipality, or as an intermediary, facilitating agreements between landlords and tenants. As an intermediary, the SRE plays a crucial role in resolving issues such as stock availability, trust concerns, or excessive deposits. It acts as a guarantor for rent payments to landlords and offers affordable solutions to tenants.

Regarding labor services, the SRE operates along two axes: in-country labor mobility and local labor market integration. In regions with high labor demand, whether skilled or unskilled, there is a concerted effort to relocate potential employees from areas with limited job opportunities. This may involve not only interregional mobility but also assisting individuals in moving from remote towns with weak transport links to urban centers with a higher demand for labor. Employment services encompass networking with local employers, assessing human resource needs, and recruiting in areas with an excess labor force but limited job opportunities. Additional services aid in integrating mobile workers into their new environments. This effort necessitates coordination with both employment and social services in regions with weak labor markets. Additionally, employment services extend assistance to the local population.

The target demographic for these services primarily consists of households grappling with housing issues due to unemployment or unfavorable labor market conditions. Within this target group, the SRE prioritizes individuals or households lacking stable housing due to their precarious labor market positions. These individuals receive comprehensive housing and employment services from the SRE to prepare them for participation in available training and employment programs, facilitating their entry into the labor market and providing ongoing mentoring to stabilize their employment situations.

Social services constitute the third component of the SRE. In initiatives like the HomeLab project, social services are partly delivered through personalized case management by social workers and partly through collaboration with national or local institutions. Establishing partnerships with these entities and ensuring that clients receive entitled social benefits are critical tasks for the SRE.

This being said, there is a need to bear in mind that each country applied its own adaptation to the model. For example, Hungary focused on homeless people in Budapest. They, in the framework of HomeLab, provided housing for 20 households, and helped them maintain it through very thorough social work and labour market training. They also implemented the model of HomeLab in Veszprém, where the tourism of the nearby towns is rising the rents for tenants. The pilot is the largest one of HomeLab, involving 75 households, and focusing on different types of vulnerable groups including tenants of the municipal apartments of Veszprém, tenants accumulating arrears, homeless people, people moving into Veszprem in search of job opportunities and finally leaving detention facilites, people having lost the ownership of their apartments as a result of the financial and economic crisis… As for Slovakia, they have selected three microregions with Roma localities (the vast majority being settlements), where the living conditions and basic indicators are similar: most people live in low-standard illegal houses, the unemployment rate is 70% or higher, the acquired level of education is very low and for most of the families the main source of income are state social benefits. Czech Republic approach is based on the concept of help to move the households living in unfavourable housing (legal/illegal hostels, shelters, poor quality housing etc.) to standard housing for affordable price and to help them manage their financial situation by getting employment or other type of legal job. They act on 45 households in total.
The pilots are great examples of how we can handle complex communities with interrelated needs and tackle them with simple housing schemes and constant support, pursuing the empowerment of citizens.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Inhabiting An Enclosed Landscape- 10 Sandstone Social Housing Units On Mallorca

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Inhabiting An Enclosed Landscape- 10 Sandstone Social Housing Units On Mallorca

Mismatches Price
Policies and regulations Land Global frameworks Price control
Promotion and production Public promotion Materials Technology

Main objectives of the project

The material isolation of Mallorca (Balearic Islands, Spain) prompted its residents to cultivate a distinct material culture using the island's scarce resources. This distinctive environment fostered the development of sustainable techniques that resonate strongly with our contemporary pursuit of circularity, offering valuable insights for the future. Leveraging this legacy, IBAVI (The Balearic Social Housing Agency) has devised a scheme comprising 10 social housing units, which modernizes sandstone and timber construction methods while maintaining their inherent sustainability and tradition.

Date

  • 2021: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Architect: Siddartha Rodrigo
  • Architect: Juan Moreno
  • Architect: Javier Gavín
  • Constructor: IBAVI

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Description

The historical inhabitants of the Balearic Archipelago possessed a unique understanding that the landscape knows no rear, unlike modern individuals who often overlook the consequences of their actions. Enclosed within their habitat, they were acutely aware of the direct impact of their choices. Despite cultural connections across the Mediterranean, this material isolation compelled them to forge their own material culture from the island's scant resources. This enclosed environment fostered the development of sustainable techniques that resonate strongly with our contemporary pursuit of circularity, offering valuable insights for the future.
Drawing upon this tradition, a novel social housing scheme emerged, revitalizing sandstone and timber construction methods while capitalizing on their inherent sustainability. Located on the outskirts of Santa Margalida, a small town in Mallorca, the scheme comprises ten dwellings and an equal number of workshops on the first floor. Designed to address both the climate and housing emergencies facing the region, the project integrates strategies for energy reduction and creation during construction and use.
The marriage of vernacular local knowledge with contemporary building practices lies at the heart of achieving high sustainability standards. Beyond providing shelter for local families and addressing the housing crisis, the project's broader objective is to catalyze the revitalization of the local building industry. By updating and standardizing traditional methods, it aims to create economic opportunities and foster social sustainability in rural areas.Traditional techniques are adapted and updated in collaboration with local artisans to minimize reliance on fossil fuel-intensive materials. A range of strategies, from passive design features to renewable energy systems, ensure optimal comfort and efficiency without compromising interior living conditions. The project's significance transcends its immediate impact, as it serves as a prototype for future developments by IBAVI. Solutions devised and tested here will be disseminated to effect change on a larger scale within the local building industry. Quantifiable objectives include significant reductions in energy consumption, water usage, and CO2 emissions compared to standard buildings.Aesthetic considerations are imbued with ethical principles, celebrating the unique qualities of the local environment and the intrinsic value of physical presence. Exposed sandstone and timber serve as reminders of the materials' origins and their connection to the surrounding landscape, enhancing the sensory experience of the space.
Inclusivity is embedded in the project's ethos, with publicly owned buildings offering affordable rents to mitigate the impact of soaring housing prices driven by uncontrolled tourism. While its impact on the broader housing market may be limited, it represents a step towards greater social equity and resilience.
Recognized as a NEB Rising Star in 2021, the project exemplifies resilience and circularity in contemporary architectural practice, setting a precedent for sustainable development in the region and beyond.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

ToitMoiNous - An intergenerational and mixed community

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ToitMoiNous - An intergenerational and mixed community

Mismatches Cultural suitability Diversity New family structures
Urban Design Participatory processes
Promotion and production Public promotion Public-private partnerships Self-management Cooperatives

Main objectives of the project

In Villeneuve-d’Ascq, near Lille, a unique hybrid housing complex and cooperative scheme called "ToitMoiNous" accommodates multiple generations. Assisted by "Notre Logis," residents participated in designing the building, which blends social, assisted, and private housing. What sets it apart are the shared spaces like a garden and guest studio, fostering connection among the 40 residents. A "common life charter" promotes solidarity, cultural acceptance, consensus decision-making, sustainability, and inclusivity across generations.

Date

  • 2011: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: ToitMoiNous
  • Notre Logis

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: France, Lille

Description

Formed in June 2011, the association "Habitat groupeté solidaire" initiated the "ToitMoiNous" project, initially targeting seniors but later expanding to include younger families, thus becoming intergenerational. By early 2016, the group comprised 22 families, including 10 retirees, totaling 30 adults and 15 children aged 1 to 17. Membership evolves over time, with new members joining via a coaptation protocol and agreement to the "charter of common life," committing to solidarity and tolerance principles.

Situated on rue du 8 mai 1945 in Villeneuve d'Ascq, the building encompasses 22 housing units, including apartments and intermediate housing for families. Seven units are designated for social rental, 10 for rental-accession, and four for free access. Collective spaces include a common room for activities, a guest room, laundry facilities, a garden, and a workshop.

Shared spaces, tools, and service exchanges are integral to all members' commitments. Each household contributed to the building's architectural design, partnering with the architect. The project is supported by the social landlord "Notre Logis" under a predefined agreement delineating responsibilities and preserving association members' autonomy.

The ToitMoiNous association annually elects its office and board of directors, conducting monthly meetings where various commissions handle tasks. Decisions, preferably achieved through consensus, are made by qualified majority vote. Commissions cover "green spaces," "well-being," "communication," and "recruitment and reception of new members."

Tenant participation in decisions is facilitated through delegation from the lessor. The association may engage non-resident members for neighborhood activities.

As a hub for exchanges and shared experiences, group housing promotes openness, citizenship, and ecology. Solidarity is a core value, fostering better communal living while respecting privacy and active city engagement. A Charter outlines fundamental values and reciprocal commitments, while internal regulations govern group housing implementation. Embracing sustainable development, the project integrates energy-efficient standards, proximity to amenities, services, leisure, and public transport.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Prêt à impact- the Social and Environmental Impact Loan

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Prêt à impact- the Social and Environmental Impact Loan

Mismatches Financing
Financing Financial actors Sustainable development financing Public-private collaboration

Main objectives of the project

Caisse d'Epargne has introduced the Social and Environmental Impact Loan (Prêt à impact) to bolster the engagement of its real estate and social housing clientele in social and environmental causes. In this initiative, the interest rates of each loan will be linked to the non-financial social or environmental performance of the borrowers, with the potential bonus being directed towards supporting charitable associations.

Date

  • 2020: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Caisse d'Epargne

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Paris
Country/Region: France, Paris

Description

Caisse d'Epargne, a longstanding private bank in France renowned for its investments in social housing and public sector ventures, aimed to incentivize its clients to adopt more ambitious social and environmental standards in their social housing endeavors. Drawing on these principles of the institution, the initiative introduces an incentive mechanism where social landlords can benefit from an interest rate indexed to their non-financial performance for each loan.

The bank's endorsement extends to both social and environmental criteria, encompassing social inclusion, disability support, aging population care, urban diversity, occupant health, energy efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions reduction, environmentally responsible practices, and sustainable mobility. Performance in each area is assessed through specific indicators. Should the client meet the predefined objectives annually throughout the loan term, they enjoy a rate increase, which they may choose to contribute to a charitable cause. In cases where objectives are not met, the contractual rate applies without penalty. Through this scheme, Caisse d'Epargne aims to recognize and encourage its clients' efforts in reducing their environmental impact and supporting societal causes, fostering more sustainable and responsible project developments.

It is worth noting that Impact Loans are available not only to social housing providers but also to real estate enterprises, with distinct criteria applied. Real estate entities focus on providing healthy and diverse housing options, while social housing emphasizes inclusion. In both cases, affordable housing schemes are fostered.

The inaugural Impact Loan was initiated by Caisse d'Epargne Ile-de-France in partnership with the Regie Immobiliere of the City of Paris, the second-largest social housing provider in Paris. This 25 million euro loan will cater to the needs of the social landlord, enabling it to secure an interest rate increase of 15 basis points by dedicating at least 20% of annually allocated dwellings to a priority population, as per French law. Both parties have agreed to allocate 50% of the bonus amount annually to a social housing foundation.

This scheme is hailed as highly innovative in Europe, notably for integrating non-financial performance into its mechanism. Similar initiatives exist in the Netherlands. Amidst the COVID-19 recovery phase, this French scheme facilitates social housing investment programs under optimal conditions while fostering a profound social commitment.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Maison Biloba Huis - Housing for senior citizens

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Maison Biloba Huis - Housing for senior citizens

Mismatches Cultural suitability Diversity Vulnerable groups New family structures
Promotion and production Public-private partnerships Cooperatives

Main objectives of the project

The Biloba House in Brussels, Belgium, is dedicated to providing a shared, solidarity-based living environment that fosters multiculturalism and intergenerational connections within the local community. Designed primarily for independent older individuals from diverse backgrounds, the house offers approximately 15 individual living spaces equipped with private kitchens, living areas, and bathrooms, along with shared facilities for communal activities, cooking, and relaxation, complemented by a small garden. Additionally, the Biloba project extends its services beyond accommodation, encompassing a range of offerings such as care center for seniors experiencing isolation and seeking companionship, open to residents of all ages. Alongside accommodation, the project provides support services including midday meals, household assistance, and various leisure activities, enriching the overall living experience and promoting a sense of belonging and community engagement. A center open to the community and for the community.

Date

  • 2016: Construction

Stakeholders

  • SLRB
  • Constructor: E.MM.A
  • Promotor: Le Foyer Schaerbeek

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Belgium, Brussels

Description

In pursuit of diversifying the social housing landscape, the Brussels government tasked SLRB, the overseeing body of the Brussels social housing sector, with fostering innovative projects that address specific housing needs. This directive led to the creation of the Biloba House, a unique initiative situated in the heart of a vibrant Brussels neighborhood. Biloba House stands as a pioneering model of community housing tailored specifically for the elderly demographic.

The genesis of the Biloba project stemmed from a poignant observation: many senior citizens, often immigrants with decades-long ties to the neighborhood, were grappling with unmet housing needs. In response, Biloba was conceived with the objective of galvanizing active participation from seniors, their families, and the broader community to enhance overall quality of life and housing standards, enabling seniors to age in place within their familiar surroundings.

Comprising 15 senior housing units, alongside a communal space and day care center on the ground floor open to all residents, Biloba House serves as a hub where neighborhood seniors assume active roles as integral members of the community. It is a sanctuary where social connections flourish, fostering a sense of belonging and shared responsibility among inhabitants. Functioning as both a meeting point and a sanctuary, Biloba ensures that its residents, whether residing within its walls or within their own homes, age gracefully and with dignity.

Central to the ethos of Biloba House are deeply ingrained values of autonomy, freedom, respect, benevolence, self-sufficiency, and solidarity, as outlined in the residents' charter. The local social housing entity, Le Foyer Schaerbeek, oversees housing management and construction, while the E.MM.A. association manages the day care center and communal space.

Perhaps most notably, Biloba's integrated approach succeeds in retaining the aging population within their familiar environs, avoiding displacement from places where they have established enduring roots. This preservation of community ties underscores the project's significance in ensuring dignified aging for its residents.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Palazzo del Carbone - Student Housing

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Palazzo del Carbone - Student Housing

Mismatches
Urban Design Liveability Public-private initiative
Promotion and production Public-private partnerships
Ownership and tenure Public-private partnerships

Main objectives of the project

The Palazzo del Carbone stands as a testament to the revitalization efforts undertaken in Reggio Emilia's historical center, providing much-needed housing for the burgeoning student population attending the local university. This initiative, valued at 5 million Euros, was brought to fruition through a collaborative public-private partnership involving the municipality, Institute Immobiliare Italiano del Nord, the University, and ACER Reggio Emilia, the local public housing management entity.

Date

  • 2014: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: ACER Reggio Emilia
  • Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia
  • Insitute Immobiliare Italiano del Nord

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Italy, Reggio nell'Emilia

Description

The Palazzo del Carbone, a historic edifice dating back to the 1500s-1600s, stands prominently in the heart of Reggio Emilia, situated within the Emilia-Romagna region of Northeastern Italy. Alongside notable landmarks such as Palazzo Busetti and Musei Civici, it has undergone extensive restoration and renovation as part of a city-funded project orchestrated by the Reggio Emilia town hall. While meticulously preserving its outward historical charm, the building has been repurposed to accommodate student living spaces and commercial units. This transformation has yielded 20 fully equipped apartments, boasting a total of 56 sleeping accommodations. Ranging from 50 to 120 square meters in size, the apartments offer rental rates starting as low as 160 Euros per bedroom or 320 Euros per unit, inclusive of common charges, elevator access, and wireless internet connectivity. Commencing in 2014 and concluding in 2016, this investment initiative has provided affordable, high-quality housing options for 450 students enrolled in the food innovation program and music school, hailing from 11 different countries.
One of the major innovations of the complex is to place a youth housing access project in the very heart of the city.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España