Date Type: Construcción

Poo Poh Project

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Poo Poh Project

Mismatches Location Price Financing Functional adequacy Cultural suitability Vulnerable groups Demographic/Urban growth
Policies and regulations National policies Local policies Governance Participatory processes
Financing Public funding Demand subsidies Savings systems Public-private collaboration
Urban Design Modelos De Ciudad Services and infrastructure Environments Liveability
Promotion and production Public-private partnerships Self-management Self-promotion Self-construction Cooperatives Favelas/Slums

Main objectives of the project

The community of Poo Poh is formed by 112 families originating from three previous squatter areas within the city. Following the establishment of a savings group and the registration of their multicommunity housing cooperative, they embarked on a quest for new land. Negotiating a favorable price, they collectively purchased the land through their cooperative. This endeavor was part of a broader initiative aimed at securing land and housing for underprivileged families across Pattani. This initiative involved a citywide process of land readjustment and settlement de-densification, facilitating the relocation of some families to new land while allowing others to improve their existing housing conditions.

Date

  • 2005: En proceso
  • 2007: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Constructor: Poo Poh Coopertaives
  • Promotor: Community Organizations Development Institute (CODI)

Location

Continent: Asia
Country/Region: Pattani, Thailand

Description

Situated on the Gulf of Thailand, the provincial capital of Pattani boasts a rich history as a trading hub spanning over a millennium. Formerly the nucleus of an autonomous Malay principality encompassing Yala and Narathiwat Provinces, Pattani pioneered international trade with the Portuguese in the 16th century, followed by engagements with the Japanese, Dutch, and English in the 17th century. Today, it stands as a vibrant city characterized by ancient mosques, thriving fishing communities, and bustling rubber trade, with a predominantly Malay-speaking Muslim population of approximately 45,000 individuals.

In addressing the pressing issues surrounding settlements and housing, prior approaches often imposed resettlement without considering the agency of affected communities. However, a pivotal shift occurred thanks to the intervention of a crucial organization. The Community Organizations Development Institute (CODI), operating under the Thai Government's Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, emerged as a catalyst for change. CODI's core mission revolves around empowering communities and their organizations, recognizing them as pivotal agents of transformation in both urban and rural settings. Within this narrative, two flagship programs spearheaded by CODI played a central role.

The trajectory of housing and community development in Pattani underwent a significant transformation with the intervention of the "Livable Cities" program in 2003. This initiative played a pivotal role in networking informal settlements across Pattani, fostering collaboration with civil society groups and religious organizations to address various facets of urban life, such as environmental sustainability, healthcare, and alternative energy. Noteworthy outcomes included annual canal-cleaning events and the inaugural citywide survey on urban poverty and housing challenges, revealing that approximately 30% of the city's populace (3,895 households, comprising roughly 12,500 individuals) resided in 16 informal settlements characterized by congested and dilapidated conditions, lacking secure tenure.

In addition to the Livable Cities program, the Baan Mankong Program emerged as a linchpin in CODI's repertoire, launched in 2003 to tackle housing issues confronting the nation's most economically disadvantaged citizens. This initiative directed government funds, in the form of infrastructure subsidies and soft housing loans, directly to impoverished communities, enabling them to spearhead improvements encompassing housing, environmental conditions, basic services, and tenure security. Departing from conventional approaches that delivered housing units to individual families, the Baan Mankong Program empowered Thailand's informal communities to drive a people-centric, citywide process aimed at devising comprehensive solutions to land and housing challenges in urban areas.

With support from the Baan Mankong Program, the community network leveraged data from the citywide survey to formulate plans for their inaugural three housing projects. The survey underscored the density of informal settlements in Pattani, highlighting the plight of joint-family households grappling with overcrowded and uncomfortable living conditions. Recognizing the challenges posed by dense settlements, the community opted to initiate resettlement projects to alleviate congestion and enhance living standards. This strategic pivot towards land readjustment was facilitated by the relatively affordable land prices in Pattani amid years of civil unrest and economic stagnation. Poo Poh emerged as the pioneering resettlement project within the city.

Comprising families from three overcrowded squatter settlements, the Poo Poh project witnessed the formation of a robust multi-community housing cooperative, which identified and acquired a cost-effective parcel of private land spanning 3.14 hectares for their new housing endeavor. Notably, a team of three young Thai community architects played a pivotal role in collaborating with the community to craft an aesthetically pleasing layout plan for the new development. In this collaborative process, the community's social dynamics, characterized by bonds of friendship and kinship, informed the spatial arrangement of houses clustered around communal open spaces. Central to the community layout were a mosque and expansive public garden, occupying 56% and 44% of the land, respectively, dedicated to housing plots, public spaces, roads, and community facilities. The exhaustive six-month process of developing the citywide housing strategy and spearheading the inaugural community housing project at Poo Poh engendered a sense of camaraderie and unity among the participating families through spirited planning workshops.

A distinctive aspect of the Poo Poh narrative was the segmentation of planning workshops into separate sessions for men and women, reflecting the entrenched gender roles prevalent in traditional Malay Muslim communities. Initially, joint workshops yielded limited engagement from women, prompting a strategic shift towards segregated sessions. This approach proved instrumental in amplifying women's voices, with their insights driving key aspects of the community's layout plan. Notably, women advocated for the integration of smaller "pocket parks" throughout the community to facilitate supervised play for children, challenging conventional notions proposed by men. This collaborative endeavor not only yielded a more inclusive and functional community layout but also empowered women to assert their ideas and aspirations within the broader community discourse.

Drawing from lessons learned in prior housing projects in southern Thailand, the architects adopted a proactive approach by prioritizing the completion of infrastructure before commencing house construction. This strategic sequence not only ensured the holistic development of the community but also fostered a sense of collective ownership and camaraderie among residents. Notably, community members actively participated in house construction, organized into clusters of six to ten households, wherein they jointly managed construction activities and finances. The formation of a community committee, comprising representatives from each cluster, further facilitated decentralized decision-making and project management. Embracing diverse approaches to construction management, some clusters enlisted local contractors, while others undertook self-managed construction processes, resulting in distinct architectural expressions across the community.

Harnessing the robust social capital inherent within these communities, the project at Poo Poh exemplified the transformative potential of grassroots mobilization, fostering cohesion and cooperative spirit while securing affordable land without compromising resident agency. Moreover, the project served as a catalyst for gender empowerment, amplifying women's voices and fostering their leadership roles not only within the project but also within the broader community fabric.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

314 Houses in Bhuj - Bhimrao Nagar, Ramdev Nagar & GIDC Resettlement

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314 Houses in Bhuj - Bhimrao Nagar, Ramdev Nagar & GIDC Resettlement

Mismatches Location Security Diversity Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations National policies Local policies Public-private initiatives Participatory processes
Financing Supply subsidies Upstream financing Public-private collaboration
Promotion and production Public-private partnerships Participatory processes Self-management Self-promotion Self-construction Cooperatives Favelas/Slums
Ownership and tenure Shared ownership Land ownership

Main objectives of the project

In contrast to conventional slum redevelopment programs in India, which typically rely on contractors and allocate housing units to individual families without community involvement, this groundbreaking initiative in Bhuj demonstrates an alternative approach utilizing government subsidies. In these three projects, community members themselves played a central role in planning and constructing the new housing, supported by thoughtful design interventions that augmented existing social dynamics and leveraged local knowledge for sustainable living in the region's hot climate.

Date

  • 2021: Construction
  • 2010: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Bhuj Municipal Corporation
  • Hunnarshala Foundation
  • Kutch Mahila Vikas Sangathan (KMVS)
  • Sakhi Sangini
  • Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY)
  • Arid Communities and Technologies (ACT)
  • K-Link Foundation

Location

Continent: Asia
Country/Region: Bhuj, India

Description

Bhuj, a historic city in Gujarat, India's westernmost state, has served as the administrative center of Kutch District since 1947. Situated in a region prone to extreme heat, droughts, earthquakes, and cyclones, Bhuj faced a significant setback when it was nearly flattened by an earthquake in January 2001, causing the loss of 7,000 lives and leaving thousands homeless. Within Bhuj, there exist 76 slum settlements, accommodating approximately one-third of the city's population, yet residents lack secure land tenure. These slums, organized along religious and caste lines, often originated from land allocated to lower-caste communities in exchange for services rendered to the city by historical authorities. Despite their ancestral land rights, most residents are still regarded as squatters on public land since Indian independence in 1947.

In 2010, a pivotal change began with Sakhi Sangini, a federation of women's self-help groups, conducting Bhuj's first comprehensive survey of slums. Recognizing challenges in drinking water supply and housing, Sakhi Sangini, along with Kutch Mahila Vikas Sangathan (KMVS) and Hunnarshala, initiated projects to address these issues with modest donor funding. This initiative evolved into the Homes in the City program, aiming to improve housing, sanitation, water supply, waste management, and livelihoods. Although successful in empowering 120 vulnerable families to upgrade or rebuild their homes using low-interest loans and technical support, the program faced limitations due to insufficient funds. The introduction of the Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) Program provided a promising solution. Unlike typical government slum redevelopment schemes led by contractors and developers, RAY aimed for a different approach, acknowledging Bhuj's unique circumstances.

Recognizing the importance of outdoor spaces and community cohesion, a study conducted by students from the Center for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT) in Ahmedabad highlighted that most families in Bhuj's slums occupied 60-80 square meters of land. This finding emphasized the need for a participatory, community-driven housing reconstruction pilot. As a result, a comprehensive plan was devised, involving 314 households across three slum areas. Each household was allocated 65-square meter plots with full infrastructure and permanent land tenure, ensuring community involvement and satisfaction. This broke with how the public sector usually works. Rather than making high-rise buildings made by private promoters, the subsidies were given directly to residents, building community housing.

The initial focus was on Bhimrao Nagar, housing 42 families from the Marwada community, bestowed the land by the king of Bhuj. Out of these, 37 families opted to reconstruct their homes on the same site. Remarkably, five houses in Bhimrao Nagar, constructed with durable materials and in good condition, were exempt from rebuilding. Instead, they were integrated into the project, receiving equivalent tenure rights and infrastructure subsidies as the others.

Following Bhimrao Nagar, attention turned to Ramdev Nagar, an ancient settlement occupied by impoverished families for decades, spanning multiple generations. The dilapidated houses, constructed from tarpaulins, plastic sheets, mud, and cement blocks, highlighted the urgent need for redevelopment. All 116 houses in Ramdev Nagar were slated for reconstruction. Notably, five structurally sound houses in Ramdev Nagar were spared from demolition, included in the project, and granted the same benefits.

Lastly, the GIDC Resettlement site emerged as a temporary refuge following the 2001 earthquake's devastation. Among the 300 shelters in GIDC, 156 were earmarked for rebuilding in the initial phase of the RAY program.

Bhuj distinguished itself by embracing the RAY program through a community-driven approach, a rarity in Indian municipalities. The 314 slum families participating in the pilot project received subsidies directly from the local government, enabling them to collectively construct their homes. Facilitated by members of the Sakhi Sangini women's savings federation and supported by the NGO Kutch Mahila Vikas Sangatan, extensive consultations were conducted across the implementing communities to ensure clarity on the terms, subsidies, and operations of the RAY program. Ultimately, unanimous agreement was reached among the families in the three pilot communities to partake in the scheme.

Prior to the project's commencement, residents in all three communities lacked legal tenure status, relegating them to the status of squatters on public land. Technically, the land they occupied, spanning several generations in some cases, fell under the jurisdiction of the Central Government's Revenue Department. With the approval of the RAY project, the land was formally transferred to the Bhuj municipal government under a 99-year lease. Upon completion of the project, the 314 families involved will receive individual allotment certificates for their 65 square meter land plots, effectively granting them ownership of their dwellings. However, as per the RAY program's stipulations, families are prohibited from selling or transferring their land or houses for a period of 15 years following occupancy.

In each of the three settlements, the inception of the project marked the formation of slum committees. This step was pivotal as it signified the communities' transition from informality to formal inclusion within the legal framework. Those assuming roles in these committees underwent regular training and sensitization sessions facilitated by the women's savings federation and KMVS. These sessions covered a range of topics, including social, physical, and financial aspects crucial for collectively managing both the housing project and the resulting residences. The comprehensive redevelopment of all three communities entailed the creation of new layouts, houses, and infrastructure. The design process was collaborative and participatory, involving a series of workshops where architects engaged with community members, particularly women, to explore the strengths and weaknesses of their previous settlements and devise plans for their replacements. The layout designs underwent continuous refinement and adjustment, with finalization occurring only upon unanimous approval from all families across the three settlements.

The final layout plans for all three communities in Bhuj were carefully crafted to align with typical settlement patterns found in both rural and urban areas. Emphasizing communal living, houses were organized in clusters around common open spaces, fostering social interactions and providing safe areas for children to play. Beyond housing and basic amenities, the redevelopment plans aimed to enhance overall quality of life by incorporating social and community facilities such as community centers, shops, day-care centers, and health clinics.

Environmental sustainability was a key consideration, with efforts made to retain existing trees and introduce more greenery to increase shade coverage. Basic infrastructure services like metered municipal electricity and water connections were provided to each house, supplemented by innovative "green" solutions such as rainwater harvesting systems and localized water treatment. Additionally, street lights powered by solar panels ensured well-lit common areas at night.

Unlike traditional government-led redevelopment programs, the 314 Houses project in Bhuj stands out for its community-driven approach. By directly empowering residents with subsidies from the RAY Program, they were able to construct their own homes, showcasing the expertise of skilled artisans within the slum communities. This participatory model not only resulted in faster and cost-effective construction but also demonstrated the ability of communities to design and build housing more effectively than conventional government interventions.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Ernestville Home Owners Association

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Ernestville Home Owners Association

Mismatches Security Functional adequacy Vulnerable groups Climate change
Policies and regulations National policies Local policies Participatory processes
Financing Financial actors Cultural actors Public funding Public-private collaboration
Urban Design Environments Public-private initiative Participatory processes
Promotion and production Public-private partnerships Self-promotion Cooperatives Favelas/Slums
Ownership and tenure Protection of social housing

Main objectives of the project

This housing project, collectively planned and managed in Metro Manila, marked a significant breakthrough on multiple fronts. Following the devastation caused by floods, 212 families residing in informal riverside settlements joined forces, establishing a new association. Together, they procured and purchased land for resettlement within the same barangay where they previously resided. Recognizing the constraints posed by the limited land area, they collaborated with a novel government initiative advocating for higher-density, yet affordable housing solutions. This innovative approach ensured that all 212 families obtained secure housing within the confines of the land available.

Date

  • 2017: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Ernestville Home Owners Association
  • Gulod Urban Poor Alliance (GUPA)
  • Foundation for the Development of the Urban Poor, Inc. (FDUP)
  • The Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC)
  • The World Bank
  • Partnership of Philippine Support Service Agencies (PHILSSA)
  • One MERALCO Foundation (OMF)

Location

Continent: Asia
Country/Region: Philippines, Quezon City [Manila]

Description

Quezon City, the largest among the 16 cities constituting Metro Manila, hosts a population exceeding 3 million individuals. Within its borders, nearly a third of the 700,000 households reside in insecurity and substandard housing within informal settlements. Among these, approximately 92,000 families dwell on privately owned land, while the remainder inhabit public land deemed "danger areas," particularly along waterways or allocated for government infrastructure projects. The Foundation for the Development of the Urban Poor (FDUP), a local NGO, had long been collaborating with impoverished communities in Barangay Gulod to address their housing and land tenure issues. In 2007, with support from FDUP, residents of informal settlements in Barangay Gulod banded together to form the Gulod Urban Poor Alliance (GUPA), seeking collective engagement with local authorities. Initially comprising 11 communities, all registered as homeowners associations—a prerequisite for collective land acquisition in the Philippines—the alliance swelled to 34 associations representing 1,801 families by 2021. Over the years, the Gulod Alliance spearheaded initiatives spanning housing, land tenure, waste management, and healthcare.

Following the 2009 devastation wrought by Typhoon Ketsana, Barangay Gulod grappled with extensive damage, particularly within informal settlements lining the riverbanks. In response, the Gulod Alliance, in partnership with FDUP, conducted a post-disaster survey, meticulously mapping settlements and identifying hazards and high-risk areas. Leveraging this data, the alliance advocated for an "in-barangay" (in-the-district) resettlement program, proposing the relocation of vulnerable communities to safer sites within the same barangay—a more humane alternative to distant resettlement sites. This concept was exemplified in the Ernestville community, the first to undergo such a resettlement endeavor.

The introduction of the government's new High Density Housing program addressed the shortcomings of previous initiatives, which struggled to keep up with rising urban land prices and construction costs. As communities faced challenges in affording adequate land for individual housing units, the concept of higher-density housing emerged as a solution. This entailed developing more vertically-oriented structures, such as multi-story blocks, to accommodate more families on the same parcel of land. Recognizing the need for such housing solutions, the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC), in consultation with the World Bank, launched the High Density Housing program. This initiative was piloted in the Ernestville project.

In 2008, the 129 families comprising the Ernestville community officially formed a Home Owners Association (HOA), a prerequisite for collective land acquisition in the Philippines. However, they encountered a shortfall in the loan amount offered by the administration, insufficient to cover the full land cost or down payment. Consequently, the HOA members initiated a community savings scheme to bridge this financial gap.

Considerations stemming from their experience with Typhoon Ketsana influenced the community's housing decisions. Some members had their homes destroyed by the typhoon, prompting the association to contemplate low-rise residential buildings, particularly for families residing near the river. Opting for low-rise structures allowed for greater accommodation of families within the limited land area, thereby reducing per-member land costs. After extensive consultations, the HOA resolved to pursue a low-rise housing project in 2011. Guided by technical expertise from NGO staff and local university architecture students, the community association developed plans for two-story core house structures with mezzanine or loft provisions for each unit, maintaining a uniform lot size of 25.6 square meters.

While the housing project was being completed, the support NGO now turned to getting the HOA ready for taking responsibility for its maintenance. With a grant from The Asia Foundation, FDUP conducted a series of intensive capacity-building activities and workshops for the leaders and members of the HOA which resulted in what they called the “Agreement on Community Living”. This agreement essentially laid down all the rules that the community as whole agreed to follow once they moved into their new neighborhood, including the use of common spaces, the kind of house improvements that were allowed, creative ways to generate funds to maintain their units as a community, and even rules on owning pets. Unlike in other housing projects of the government (in off-city resettlement sites, for example) where the rules are handed down by the agency administering the project, the rules in Ernestville were collectively decided by the community, with FDUP/the support NGO serving as the moderator of the discussions, facilitating agreements among members on contentious areas such as care for pets and designating parking areas. Each of the member-unit occupants signed this “Agreement on Community Living” as proof of their commitment to follow the policies and procedures they agreed to as a community.

As a pilot project, the Social Housing Finance Corporation exercised caution in implementing the relatively new concept of high-density, vertical housing. Initially, approval was granted for the construction of the first two buildings, which commenced in October 2014, serving as trial units for the project. Subsequent approval for the remaining ten buildings followed. In 2017, the project was inaugurated, with all units completed.

The project presented economic opportunities for community members, as the contractor agreed to hire 30% of the workers from a list provided by the Home Owners Association (HOA). The construction progress was closely monitored by the HOA, with a designated officer facilitating coordination with the contractor.

According to interviews with community leaders and members, their living conditions have significantly improved compared to their previous cramped spaces. Previously, they paid rent ranging from 2,500 ($52.65) to 3,000 ($63.15) pesos per month, whereas now, their monthly amortization amounts to only 1,400 pesos. The resulting monthly savings of over 1,000 pesos are allocated towards household utilities, food, and their children's education. Additionally, members appreciated the one-year repayment moratorium extended by the government, which alleviated financial burdens for many.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Poun Lue Reatrey Senchey - The resettlement of the Monorom community

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Poun Lue Reatrey Senchey - The resettlement of the Monorom community

Mismatches Location Functional adequacy Services Diversity Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations National policies Local policies Land Governance Public-private initiatives
Financing Financial actors Cultural actors Supply subsidies Upstream financing Public-private collaboration
Urban Design Environments Quality Liveability Inclusion
Promotion and production Self-management Self-promotion Cooperatives Management and maintenance Favelas/Slums
Ownership and tenure Shared ownership Public-private partnerships

Main objectives of the project

Serey Sophoan's journey towards inclusive urban development is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and government collaboration. Initially plagued by slum settlements and eviction threats, the city's poor communities found hope through collective action and partnership-building. With support from organizations like the Asian Coalition for Housing Rights (ACHR) and the Urban Poor Development Fund (UPDF), residents embarked on a journey of self-reliance, leveraging the "Social Land Concessions" regulation to secure land for resettlement projects. For the Monorom community, facing perennial floods and housing insecurity, this initiative offered a lifeline. By actively participating in the design and construction of their new homes, residents not only gained secure housing but also a renewed sense of dignity and empowerment. Today, Serey Sophoan stands as a beacon of inclusive urban development, where community-led solutions pave the way for change.

Date

  • 2010: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Poun Lue Reatrey Senchey community members
  • The Municipality of Serey Sophoan
  • The Banteay Meanchey Provincial Government
  • Asian Coalition for Housing Rights (ACHR)
  • Community Savings Network of Cambodia (CSNC)
  • Urban Poor Development Fund (UPDF)

Location

Country/Region: Cambodia, Sisophon

Description

Serey Sophoan, known as Sisophon in its historical context, stands as a microcosm of Cambodia's secondary cities grappling with urbanization's complexities. A 2009 survey revealed that 17% of its population, roughly 7,300 people, inhabited 19 slum settlements, situated precariously along rivers, roadsides, and railway lines. These communities faced isolation, insecurity, and the looming threat of eviction. However, collaborative efforts spearheaded by the Asian Coalition for Housing Rights (ACHR), Serey Sophoan District Authority, the national Community Savings Network of Cambodia (CSNC), and the Urban Poor Development Fund (UPDF) initiated a transformative journey. Through collective savings (supported by the UPDF) in 2005, local women formed groups, managing common loan funds to address emergencies, household needs, and livelihood challenges. The establishment of savings groups laid the groundwork for community organizing and small-scale upgrading projects, buoyed by partnerships forged with various levels of government, particularly with the Municipal Governor, fostering a newfound sense of empowerment and possibility among the urban poor.

After a survey, the inception of the Asian Coalition for Community Action (ACCA), a ACHR program, in 2009 marked a pivotal moment for vulnerable communities facing imminent eviction threats. One of them was Monorom - a settlement of 30 households that was also built along the river, right across from Poun Lea Meanchey. The ACCA program played a pivotal role in empowering vulnerable communities across Asia to mobilize, establish networks, and pool resources through collective savings, enabling them to engage in negotiations with municipal governments to tackle poverty and housing challenges on a citywide scale. Additionally, the program was underpinned by the 2001 regulation of "Social Land Concessions," a mechanism aimed at securing land for landless individuals or groups. This regulation granted beneficiaries the right to farm and build houses on state-owned land, essentially affording them ownership rights for the concession period. Notably, the provision of land to communities free of charge, along with a collective land certificate, represented a groundbreaking initiative by the Banteay Meanchey provincial government to promote communal ownership and utilization of land, departing from the conventional model of individual ownership.

Leveraging the 2001 regulation of "Social Land Concessions" and the support of the ACCA, the Monorom community embarked on a groundbreaking resettlement project. Covering an area of 30,000 square meters (7.4 acres), the new land provided a canvas for transformation with assistance from UPDF. A team of youthful and visionary community architects collaborated with the Monorom community to orchestrate a participatory process for designing the layout of their future settlement and conceptualizing their residences. After extensive deliberations and refinements, a layout plan was devised, allocating 30% of the land (16,500 square meters) for infrastructure, including roads and public spaces, and dedicating 60% (13,500 square meters) for 30 spacious residential plots. These plots, spanning 455 square meters each (13 m x 35 m), were envisioned as "self-sufficiency" areas, intended not only for housing but also for fostering food production and livelihood activities. Featuring ample space for vegetable gardens, fruit trees, fish-rearing ponds, and livestock enclosures, these plots aimed to promote self-reliance and sustainability. Subsequently, the community members, in collaboration with architects, embarked on designing the houses. Despite the land being raised above normal flood levels, the decision was made to elevate the houses on tall pre-cast concrete columns, considering Cambodia's susceptibility to floods. Each dwelling, encompassing approximately 30 square meters, comprised wooden structural elements and walls finished with timber boards or fiber cement boards. Reflecting Khmer tradition, the houses were designed to harvest rainwater during the monsoon season, channeling it into large pots for consumption and sanitation purposes during the dry season. The construction was swiftly executed, culminating in residents moving in by the end of 2010.

For years, the Monorom community faced the daunting challenge of potential eviction and devastating annual floods that frequently destroyed their homes. However, their relocation to more secure and spacious land marked a significant turning point in their lives. This resettlement endeavor underscored that providing adequate housing for impoverished communities does not necessarily demand extensive resources. Instead, when communities are actively engaged in the process and receive support from local authorities and other stakeholders, significant progress can be achieved. Since the completion of the project, Monorom residents have thrived in a secure and well-structured community, fostering strong social connections and advancing their livelihoods. Furthermore, the project has emerged as a benchmark for addressing food security and implementing resettlement initiatives. The strategies employed, including collective savings, collaboration with local government, and the introduction of "social land concessions," have set a precedent for the province to emulate.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Tunkhel Village

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Tunkhel Village

Mismatches Functional adequacy Services Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations Local policies Land Building capacity
Financing Financial actors Cultural actors Savings systems
Promotion and production Self-management Self-promotion Self-construction Cooperatives
Ownership and tenure Shared ownership

Main objectives of the project

Mongolia, known for its fiercely independent nomadic herders, is undergoing urbanization, prompting urban dwellers to seek more communal solutions to address issues such as poverty and housing. In Tunkhel Village, ten impoverished families in a timber town embraced collective action, departing from the individualistic ethos, to collaboratively rebuild their deteriorating Soviet-era housing using energy-efficient methods. Their initiative not only transformed their living conditions but also influenced government housing policies.

Date

  • 2009: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Tunkheliin Hugjil savings group
  • Architect: Yagaanbandi
  • Asian Coalition for Housing Rights (ACHR)
  • Urban Development Resource Center (UDRC)

Location

Continent: Asia
Country/Region: Mongolia

Description

Tunkhel Village, nestled in Mandal District amidst the forest-clad mountains of north-central Mongolia and located 126 km from Ulaanbaatar along the railway line to Russia, sustains a population of approximately 3,721 individuals residing in 980 households. Despite the stunning natural scenery, the village grapples with multifaceted challenges. Formerly reliant on timber production as its primary industry, Tunkhel faced economic downturns following the closure of state-run lumber mills at the conclusion of Mongolia's socialist era. Consequently, unemployment surged to 60%, accompanied by escalating poverty, alcoholism, and social issues. Predominantly, residents inhabit unserviced ger areas characterized by unpaved, unlit roads strewn with uncollected refuse, prompting many to seek alternative livelihoods such as seasonal market gardening and livestock rearing. Presently, livestock outnumber humans by a ratio of ten to one in this settlement.

Since 2009, Tunkhel Village has witnessed the establishment of 17 community-managed savings groups, facilitated by the Urban Development Resource Center (UDRC), a non-governmental organization based in Ulaanbaatar. In April of that year, UDRC, in collaboration with the Asian Coalition for Community Action (ACCA) Program, initiated a comprehensive community upgrading initiative in Tunkhel. A joint committee, comprising representatives from community savings groups and local government entities, was instituted to oversee the project's execution. Subsequently, an agreement was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) and action plan, whereby the local government pledged office space for village-based ger (1) area development operations. The collaborative efforts between community groups and the local government culminated in the inauguration of the village's inaugural joint community development project—a wooden bridge spanning the river. This venture, funded entirely by the local government and staffed by community volunteers, addressed a longstanding infrastructure need within a mere two weeks of construction.

The success of this initial collective endeavor instigated a series of communal projects, including the establishment of children's playgrounds, implementation of waste-collection systems, inauguration of a community products shop, and renovation of a destitute widow's dilapidated dwelling. Emboldened by these accomplishments, the savings network proposed a housing project spearheaded by the Tunkheliin Hugjil savings group. This proposal, endorsed in August 2009, initially garnered the interest of all 16 households within the savings group, though ultimately, six families opted to pursue independent avenues, securing loans from the nascent community fund to acquire land and houses elsewhere. Over the ensuing three months, the remaining ten families collaborated to raze their antiquated residences and erect modern replacements.

Each family procured a loan amounting to $3,750 (equivalent to 5 million tugrik) from the village-level revolving fund for house construction, bearing a 6% annual interest rate repayable over five years at a monthly installment of 110,000 tugrik (approximating US$83). In adherence to individual financial capabilities, repayment terms were collectively determined and contributions remitted into the community's bank account. Leveraging Mongolia's abundant land resources, the families availed themselves of their entitlement to 7,000 square meters of government-allocated land, thereby assuming ownership of their respective plots. The newly constructed single-story, semi-detached dwellings, designed by the residents, feature a three-room living area spanning 42 square meters. Crafted from locally sourced timber and incorporating energy-efficient innovations to mitigate winter heating expenses, these residences are interconnected to the village's central steam-heating system, modernized in 2019. Additionally, the houses share communal outdoor pit latrines and boast double-glazed windows and insulated galvanized iron roofing sheets conducive to weathering Mongolia's harsh winters. Salvaged construction materials from the former residences supplemented the predominantly new building supplies, ensuring cost-effectiveness in the project's execution.

In a departure from conventional practices prevalent in Mongolia's ger areas, where residents typically erect high fences surrounding their properties, the project participants opted for a unified, inviting perimeter fence encouraging openness and community engagement. Noteworthy solidarity was exhibited during World Habitat Day celebrations in 2009, drawing volunteers from across Mongolia to assist in constructing this inclusive enclosure, symbolizing support for the pioneering collective housing endeavor.

Following the project's culmination, the local government allocated a disused building to the savings network, repurposed as a community center. Utilizing residual project funds, the facility underwent renovations, evolving into a vibrant communal hub frequented for social gatherings, meetings, and commercial activities. The center offers diverse services ranging from hairstyling and watch repair to mobile phone and computer maintenance, augmenting its significance as a vital community asset.

(1) A Ger district represents a common type of residential area found in Mongolian settlements. These districts typically comprise parcels containing one or more standalone traditional mobile dwellings, known as gers (thus named after them), enclosed by wooden fences standing at a height of approximately two meters. In other regions, gers are commonly referred to as yurts.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

PACE and Phyllis Wheatley YWCA rehabilitation

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PACE and Phyllis Wheatley YWCA rehabilitation

Mismatches Financing Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations National policies Public-private initiatives
Financing Financial actors Public funding

Main objectives of the project

Washington, D.C. is addressing the significant deferred maintenance requirements and the challenge of high utility bills faced by affordable housing properties and non-profits. Through the implementation of Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing in affordable housing projects, the city is making sustainable upgrades accessible to an underserved market. This initiative demonstrates that green retrofits and housing affordability can complement each other effectively.

Date

  • 2018: Finalista
  • 2016: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Dantes Partners
  • US Department of Housing
  • Washington DC Mayor
  • Architect: Miner Feinstein Architects

Location

Continent: North America
Country/Region: United States of America, Washington D.C.

Description

The property assessed clean energy (PACE) model represents an innovative approach to financing energy efficiency and renewable energy enhancements on private property. PACE financing, commonly established within a "land-secured financing district," akin to an assessment district or local improvement district, typically involves local government-issued bonds for projects like streetlights or sewer systems. Recently extended to encompass energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives, this model allows property owners to undertake improvements without substantial upfront costs. Participants in a PACE program, opting in voluntarily, repay improvement expenses over a defined period—typically 10 to 20 years—through property assessments, secured by the property itself and billed as an addition to property tax obligations.

Although PACE financing is accessible across much of the USA, the Phyllis Wheatley YWCA project stands out as the first instance where it has gained approval for a Department of Housing and Urban Development-assisted mixed finance public housing property. By synergizing with affordable housing subsidies, this pioneering mechanism facilitates the preservation of low rents, ensuring the property's sustained status as public affordable housing for a minimum of 40 years, all while reducing its environmental impact.

The Phyllis Wheatley YWCA, a nationally registered historic edifice, fulfills the needs of marginalized women by providing secure housing and counseling services. Originally erected in 1920 and significantly renovated in the early 1990s, the building is experiencing resident attrition. While only 30 units retain full amenities, thanks to the rehabilitation the rest now have shared shower rooms and kitchens on each floor, each unit now includes a toilet and sink. Additionally, the restoration of the first-floor common areas to their historic splendor entails the removal of current utilitarian finishes. Thanks to PACE financing, newly installed photovoltaic systems, sophisticated computerized control integration for mechanical and electrical systems, and stormwater management solutions optimize the building's technological efficiency.

Washington DC exemplifies how national programs can be used to maintain social housing and improve them. Benefiting from what was once thought for private owners can lead to useful results for the public administration, too. The result is the enhancement of a historic social housing building in a gentrified neighborhood, generating a more diverse and vivid environment also in the surrounding community.

This project was completed in December of 2016 and won 3rd place in the renovation category for the Affordable Housing Conference of Montgomery County Design Awards, 2018.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

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

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

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