Tipo de autoría: Promotor

Porto 15 - Cohousing for young people

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Porto 15 - Cohousing for young people

Mismatches Location Services Vacant housing
Promotion and production Public promotion Self-management Cooperatives Site&services
Ownership and tenure Rental and temporary tenure Protection of social housing

Main objectives of the project

Porto 15 stands as a pioneering example of collaborative residence for individuals under 35, marking one of Italy's earliest ventures into cohousing with full public support. This innovative project entails the rehabilitation and subsequent leasing of 18 units within a building owned by ASP - City of Bologna, situated in the heart of the historic city center. Its proximity to the vibrant cultural hub known as Manifattura delle Arti, home to the Museum of Modern Art and the Film Library, further enhances its appeal. The residence offers common spaces for inhabitants to utilize, fostering a sense of community and encouraging active participation in communal life. Residents are invited to engage in this novel form of collaborative living, aiming to create a dynamic and inclusive environment within their shared space.

Date

  • 2017: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Porto15 APS
  • Promotor: ASP - Public Company for Services of the City of Bologna
  • Promotor: ACER-Bologna
  • City of Bologna
  • Constructor: Società Cooperativa SuMisura

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Bologna, Italy

Description

The roots of the Italian cooperative movement date back to the mid-nineteenth century, with Bologna serving as a hub for numerous such initiatives. In 1884, workers from a tobacco company in Bologna formed one of the earliest housing cooperatives, marking a significant milestone in community organization. While the fascist era interrupted this model, the post-war period witnessed a resurgence of cooperative endeavors.

Bologna's housing landscape has recently been overshadowed by a pressing crisis, exacerbated by factors like soaring rental costs, which spiked by nearly ten percent the previous year. The city's mayor has acknowledged the urgency of the situation, attributing it partly to the lingering effects of economic downturns and phenomena like Airbnb, which diminish the availability of long-term rental properties. In response, the city has undertaken measures such as signing the Evictions Protocol to support families facing eviction due to financial hardships.

Despite these efforts, young people continue to struggle to secure affordable housing. Recognizing the potential of cooperative models, Porto 15 emerged as a pioneering venture. As the first public housing initiative in Italy exclusively for individuals under 35, Porto 15 represents a significant social innovation, particularly in a country where around 67% of this demographic still resides with their parents.

Located in the historic city center, the building is structured around 5 floors of residence in the center of Bologna, 18 apartments for rent to live in, 49 potential inhabitants, 5 common spaces for meetings, parties, activities, workshops… Access to Porto 15 involved self-nomination and a selection process based on compatibility with available accommodations. Concurrently with residency, the inaugural group of cohabitants established Porto 15 APS, a social promotion association aimed at supporting collaborative living and engaging in community activities at local and broader levels. The association is the one responsible of the cooperative ethos of the project.

A defining feature of Porto 15's model is residents' active participation and decision-making, exemplified by the creation of a "charter of values" outlining mutual expectations and responsibilities. This collaborative approach not only benefits residents but also enriches the broader community through organized activities and contributions, such as childcare support systems and ecological initiatives.

Moreover, Porto 15's location in the historic center serves as a bulwark against the encroachment of touristification, safeguarding the area's vibrancy and livability for residents. In fact, the agreement among residents include a commitment to give something back to the local community, by organizing activities. For example, tenants might set up a homework club, or do something ecological such as caring for public gardens. This innovative housing project is part of Bologna's broader efforts to redefine cooperative housing, culminating in the city's distinction as the first in Italy to establish a formal definition of cooperative housing and actively encourage private and citizen-led initiatives to repurpose unused city-owned buildings for similar purposes.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Tenant’s democracy in Denmark

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Tenant’s democracy in Denmark

Policies and regulations Building capacity Participatory processes
Promotion and production Self-management

Main objectives of the project

In numerous European countries, social housing landlords have established mechanisms for tenant involvement in governance, with Denmark leading the forefront in this domain, where it has evolved into what is commonly referred to as "tenant democracy." Within this system, tenants of housing associations possess the ability to wield substantial influence over estate management.

Date

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: BL- Danish Federation of Non-Profit Housing

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Denmark

Description

Denmark boasts a rich history of equitable housing policies spanning over a century. In 1919, through broad political consensus, Denmark pioneered a national public social housing system accessible to all. Unlike public housing models elsewhere, social housing in Denmark is not confined to low-income households but is open to all residents. Nonprofit housing organizations, where tenants are associates, develop and own the buildings, while residents actively shape their living conditions through a system of tenant democracy. Regulated extensively under Danish welfare policy, nonprofit housing development encompasses stringent controls over financing, design, construction, and management, including waiting lists for housing units. Danish law allows each municipality to allocate up to 25% of its social housing stock for marginalized communities such as refugees, the unemployed, and people with disabilities. Social housing comprises approximately 20% of Copenhagen's housing stock, while market-rate rentals and private co-ops constitute 43% and another significant portion, respectively.

A cornerstone of tenant democracy in Denmark lies in tenant boards. Each housing estate annually elects its tenant board, which subsequently forms part of a larger assembly. This assembly convenes annually to elect a board, approve budgets and rents, determine maintenance and renovation projects, and establish local rules. Tenants hold substantial power in decision-making, with the board having the final say, even on major renovations. Disputes are resolved through municipal assistance mechanisms when necessary, ensuring equitable outcomes. While tenants maintain the majority on the organization's board, municipal representatives often occupy seats as well. Thus, participatory methods, reinforcing local power and horizontal governance are the main features of the model.

To further empower tenant boards, housing associations offer various tools and resources. These include dedicated web portals for board members and a range of courses, such as an annual weekend seminar for local housing company chairpersons and chairwomen, along with meetings held in local settings with high-level executives from the housing associations.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Vivalla renovation

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Vivalla renovation

Mismatches Segregation Services Diversity Vulnerable groups Climate change
Policies and regulations Global frameworks
Promotion and production Public-private partnerships Participatory processes

Main objectives of the project

In 2010, ÖrebroBostäder, a public housing organization, initiated a strategic partnership agreement with construction company Skanska and architectural firm White Arkitekter to renovate the Vivalla district in Örebro. Residents of the housing complex actively participated in the planning process with the assistance of the Swedish Tenants Organisation. Workshops, including sessions for children, were organized to gather insights into residents' needs and preferences. Innovatively, Skanska employed 80 unemployed residents for the renovation and construction work through a unique bid specification. The Swedish Ministry of Employment collaborated with Skanska and ÖrebroBostäder by facilitating frequent informative meetings and interviews with residents. Additionally, the Municipality of Örebro supported ÖrebroBostäder by overseeing and approving the changes in the urban planning of the area.

Date

  • 2023: Construction
  • 2011: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: ÖrebroBostäder
  • Architect: White Arkitekter
  • Constructor: Skanska
  • Örebro City Hall

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Örebro, Sweden

Description

Originally constructed as part of the Miljonprogrammet (Million Program) Swedish government public housing scheme in the late 1960s, the Vivalla neighborhood in Örebro has long struggled with high unemployment and various social issues. Despite its size, equivalent to that of a small town, Vivalla lacked essential amenities and services, and its physical isolation from the rest of the city compounded its challenges. However, through collaborative efforts led by ÖrebroBostäder, White Arkitekter, and Skanska, the entire neighborhood has undergone a transformative revitalization, creating a safer and more positive residential environment.

Initiating a strategic partnering agreement between Skanska and ÖrebroBostäder from 2010, the focus has been on refurbishing and renewing three blocks, with the project expected to conclude by 2024. Alongside renovating approximately 400 apartments, the partners have prioritized the development of green spaces and meeting areas within the neighborhood. Engaging in extensive dialogue with residents, solutions were identified to enhance safety and foster a sense of community. The project encompasses renovations, demolitions, new constructions, and significant alterations to the outdoor landscape. For example, by moving the entrances of selected buildings from the long eastern flank to the western flank, they created entrance spaces where neighbours can meet. By demarcating public and semi-private spaces more clearly, they facilitated the social “territories” that people need for their sense of identity, community, and security.

Energy efficiency was central too. It reduces the impact on the environment and lowers heating costs by installing solar panels, for example. The houses in Vivalla are more energy efficient than the building norm requires. They also tested the latest technology in a variety of climate-smart measures, such as the smarter FTX system where they preheat the outdoor air via ground heating holes in the ground. Moreover, green roofs where installed (with sedum coating)

Notably, the project aimed to introduce features unique to the neighborhood and attract new tenant demographics, aligning the population structure more closely with the municipality as a whole. ÖrebroBostäder demonstrated a commitment to change while preserving existing qualities such as low-scale, car-free walkways, and distinctive red-brick facades. Subsequent stages of the regeneration project have continued to replicate these patterns and designs throughout the district.

A significant achievement of the initiative is the Residents Builder program, providing work placements for unemployed residents in the renovation. Designed to reduce segregation and facilitate entry into the labor market, around 80 individuals have participated in placements with Skanska and subcontractors. Additionally, efforts to combat segregation have led to a more diverse population within the neighborhood, accompanied by the opening of new services such as the "Trainstation" education center, offering opportunities for skill development among young people in areas like music, photography, and digital literacy. The goal is that 70% of tenants must have an income. This will even increase diversity in the community.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Opengela

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Opengela

Mismatches Vulnerable groups
Financing Supply subsidies Demand subsidies Sustainable development financing Public-private collaboration
Ownership and tenure Protection of social housing

Main objectives of the project

Emerging from the recognition that a significant portion of the population faced barriers in accessing traditional bank loans due to insufficient income and repayment capacity, the 'MAS OPENGELA' mechanism, combining public and private funds, provides loans with a 15-year repayment period. These loans aim to assist low-income households in fully financing home renovations. Additionally, OPENGELA facilitates coordination among neighbors for refurbishment projects and fosters dialogue among building owners to facilitate successful renovations.

Date

  • 2019: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Constructor: Basque Government
  • Promotor: Bilbao Municipal Housing
  • Constructor: Bilbao/Bilbo municipality
  • Constructor: Eibar municipality
  • Basque Energy Agency (EVE)
  • Debegesa
  • Gabineteseis
  • Zabala innovation
  • GNE Finance
  • Housing Europe

Location

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

Description

In the 60s and 70s Spain build a large amount of social housing units. However, the vast majority of them were in a regime that after decades, the old tenant become the sole owner of the housing unit. Then, social housing stock has been reduced. As a result, all over Spain, low-income communities manage low-quality and old buildings in need of refurbishment, but without having the budget to tackle the deficiencies. The OPENGELA project wants to address this.

The main point of the project are their offices, working as One-Stop-Shops. Located in the neighbourhood of the refurbishment, in those offices, a multidisciplinary team helps the owners to manage their renovation. Basically, their work consists on, first, achieving an agreement among all the owners of the building to do the refurbishment. As condominium, to make the building accessible, there is a need on an agreement among the owners which is always risky and difficult when low-income people must do a financial effort to it. Secondly, the office guide the owners on how to access subsidies and financial help. All can be asked and managed from the office, reducing the inconveniences to residents.

OPENGELA serves as a prime example of a public-private partnership, comprising various public entities including the Basque Government, Basque Energy Agency (EVE), Bilbao Municipal Housing, and Debegesa, alongside two European-level organizations (FEDARENE and Housing Europe). The private sector is represented by three specialized firms: GNE Finance for financing, Gabineteseis for communication, and Zabala for European affairs. While Bilbao Municipal Housing and Debegesa have taken the lead on projects within the current setup, private partners such as GNE Finance and Zabala contribute expertise in novel financial instruments, as well as technical, social, and legal aspects to the consortium.

OPENGELA also offers financial support through MAS OPENGELA (Social Support System Fund) – a blend of public and private funds – which offers refundable loans in 15 years to help low-income households cover the investment needed to renovate their homes. This system helps residents cover 100% of the investment. The application process is streamlined: it not linked to life insurance, there is no cancellation fee, the payment deadline is up to 15 years and the nominal interest rate is 5.95% or 6.45% depending on the energy efficiency ambition. Moreover, the age limit was extended to access those loans. Now, access to them is up to 70 years old.

OPENGELA was first established by two pilot projects, one in Otxarkoaga (Bilbao) and the other in Txonta (Eibar). In the first case, work is done on five buildings encompassing 16 house numbers with a total of 240 homes. Other courses of action will also be undertaken from there, such as the refurbishment of the old shopping centre and the launch of business initiatives in premises which are currently empty. As for the case in Txonta, the pilot Project works on a total of 221 homes in 17 house numbers. The renovation will follow current standards of energy efficiency and accessibility. Te result is clear: more than 800 people have already benefit from the project. Furthermore, the financial solution has facilitated the uptake of building renovation in vulnerable areas without compromising the debt level of neighbours. On average, applicants allocate 26.20% of their income to cover debts with banks, which allows a low margin of debt to deal with financing. OPENGELA managed to mobilise private investment of 3.2 million €. Now the methodology is implemented in other locations.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Wir inHAUSer Project

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Wir inHAUSer Project

Mismatches Functional adequacy Climate change
Urban Design Liveability
Promotion and production Public-private partnerships Innovation
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

The residential housing estate Friedrich-Inhauser-Straße is undergoing a thorough renovation and densification initiative, increasing the number of residential units from 75 to 99. Constructed in the 1980s, the complex is also undergoing enhancements with an innovative energy- and mobility-focused approach. Key aspects of the project involve barrier-free design and a social-scientific process engaging residents impacted by the refurbishment. Each household is assured the opportunity to return should they opt to do so.

Date

  • 2020: En proceso
  • 2022: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Constructor: Stadt Salzburg
  • Promotor: Heimat Österreich
  • SIR (Salzburger Institute for Regional Planning and Housing)

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Austria, Salzburg

Description

The residential complex Friedrich-Inhauser Straße, erected in 1985, undergoes an extensive refurbishment due to its below-average energy condition resulting in high heating costs for the tenants occupying the 75 apartments. The necessity for a comprehensive modernization effort stems from various factors including the lack of barrier-free access, inadequate lighting, and urgent requirements for balcony, roof, and moisture insulation upgrades. This refurbishment initiative holds increased significance as it sets a precedent for similar housing estates in Salzburg to follow suit in the future.

Ownership of the buildings lies with the Salzburg municipality, which entered into a 100-year lease agreement with developer Heimat Österreich, stipulating below-market rates in exchange for district renovation. Facilitating the grant via a specific regional subsidy mechanism for housing, the Salzburg regional authority played a pivotal role in supporting the project. A collaborative planning process ensued, involving the Salzburg University of Applied Sciences and the Salzburg Institute for Regional Planning and Housing (SIR), funded by the Climate and Energy Fund under its "Smart Cities Initiative."

Residents were actively engaged through surveys to identify issues and needs, with their input factored into the design process. A multi-partner steering group was established to align on common targets and goals, ensuring a successful renovation process. Quality standards were agreed upon to uphold excellence across various project aspects.

In line with Austria's limited-profit-housing association model, a general contractor was engaged, alongside Energy Consulting Austria (ECA) for heating and power supply system design, and MO.Point for mobility services. The creation and management of the 'mobility point' were entrusted to FAMILY OF POWER e-Carsharing, facilitating various non-carsharing options such as bike-sharing and cargo-bike-sharing.

The overarching goal of the refurbishment is to reduce the carbon footprint by implementing sustainable concepts encompassing energy, mobility, and building materials. This includes insulation, construction of an extra floor using hybrid material, and a switch from natural gas to a heat pump system deriving energy from multiple sources. The temporary accommodation of the tenants was ensured by five other social housing providers in the city, who offered their dwellings for the temporary need.

Insulation of the exterior of the building with cellulose were installed. An extra floor was constructed with hybrid material (wood and concrete). The architect made the decision to keep the original wooden structure and shape of the building. As for the energy system, refurbishing the heating system of the complex was done. Natural gas was switched to a heat pump which derives 45% of its energy from wastewater, 30% from waste air, and 25% from biomass pellets and photovoltaic panels on the roof with very low temperatures.

A major innovation was offering the “Mobility Point”: a room of approx. 25 m² (accessible to all residents using their own key), comprising sharing products (mobility modules): bicycle basket trailers, bicycle child trailers, e-scooters and e-bikes, an e-cargo pedelec and an e-car. The charging stations for the e-mobility modules are located directly in or in front of the Mobility Point. In contrast the number of parking spots was reduced compared to the usual number. Moreover, they set up of a parcel room to save unnecessary journeys and related CO₂ emissions. It contains the MYFLEXBOX, an intelligently networked and flexibly usable locker system in which parcels and other items can be safely deposited and picked up around the clock.

The project's achievements have been recognized with multiple awards, including the klimaaktiv: GOLD award for sustainable residential and service buildings. Furthermore, its positive impact on the housing sector in Salzburg has spurred adoption of similar strategies by both social and private housing providers.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

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

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

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