"Organization type ": Administracion pública

Foyer di cenni - Cohousing for young people

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Foyer di cenni - Cohousing for young people

Mismatches Price Vulnerable groups
Promotion and production Self-management
Ownership and tenure Rental and temporary tenure

Main objectives of the project

"Foyer di Cenni" is a co-housing initiative aimed at providing affordable accommodation and fostering collaborative living among young individuals such as students or temporary workers. Situated within the innovative social housing complex known as Cenni di Cambiamento, which boasts the largest employment of wooden frames for housing in Europe and achieves A energy efficiency ratings, the project comprises five spacious apartments accommodating a total of 27 beds. These flats were constructed in 2013 by the Real Estate Fund "InvestiRe" and are currently administered by a cooperative.

Date

  • 2017: Ganador
  • 2013: Construction

Stakeholders

  • DAR Cooperative
  • InvestiRe

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Italy, Milan

Description

Between 2009 and 2014, Milan experienced a notable surge in its young population, evident from data provided by universities indicating that out of 200,000 total residents, 50,000 were students originating from outside the region. Despite this influx, only one out of every 17 students from beyond the region found accommodation in the city's five largest universities. Milan's higher-than-average cost of living poses a significant hurdle for both students and young workers, compelling them to rely on an increasingly expensive private rental market.

The Foyer di Cenni project, initially promoted by the DAR Cesare Scarponi Onlus Foundation and subsequently acquired by the DAR Cooperative in late 2017, addresses these challenges. Foyers, a widely adopted residential model internationally and in Europe, offer young individuals a temporary shared housing solution at an affordable cost. Foyer di Cenni caters to twenty-seven individuals aged 18 to 30, providing them with an immersive training and co-housing experience. Situated at 15 Gabetti St. within the Cenni di Cambiamento social housing complex, each Foyer house accommodates 5 or 7 residents and features communal spaces such as kitchen, living room, and two bathrooms. Residents benefit from numerous shared amenities within the complex and engage in various social activities fostering communication and collaboration.

Recognizing the prevalence of job insecurity and geographic mobility among young people, Foyer di Cenni offers temporary housing solutions. Residents are invited to enter into a "social contract," entailing a monthly fee, typically less than €350, based on the chosen room type.

DAR, embracing values of sharing, exchange, and reciprocity, views cohabitation and communal management of spaces as opportunities for social innovation. The Foyer di Cenni project aligns with Milano 2035, a coalition aiming to create youth-friendly cities conducive to collaborative living, fostering community engagement and neighborhood interaction.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Rapid Delivery Housing

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Rapid Delivery Housing

Mismatches Diversity
Policies and regulations Land
Urban Design Modelos De Ciudad Environments Public-private initiative
Promotion and production Public promotion Public-private partnerships

Main objectives of the project

Dublin's metropolitan area is grappling with a housing shortage across both private and public sectors, prompting exploration into methods for swiftly accelerating housing delivery. In Dún Laoghaire, the challenge has been to devise a project that not only addresses the urgent need for social housing but also employs factory-built components to expedite construction while upholding exceptionally high building and energy standards. The new development at Georges Place epitomizes this objective, simultaneously revitalizing the urban landscape and reconnecting the town center with its waterfront. Situated on a former Council Depot site that lay vacant and underutilized, its proximity to the sea, mere hundreds of meters away, renders it an optimal location to meet the pressing demand for high-density family housing with individual entrances.

Date

  • 2019: Ganador
  • 2017: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Dún Laoghaire Municipality
  • Architect: A2 Architects
  • Architect: DLR Architects

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Dublin, Ireland

Description

Until recently, Dún Laoghaire had been marked by a notable physical and perceptual division between the town and its waterfront, a key asset lending the town its distinctive identity. This divide, largely attributed to the presence of a rapid transit corridor, has been successfully addressed through a series of public realm projects, effectively reconnecting the town center with the waterfront. However, alongside these positive changes, the town has experienced a decline in its residential population and retail performance due to competition from out-of-town retail establishments. In response, the Local Authority devised the Dún Laoghaire Urban Framework Plan, a strategic initiative spanning twenty years, aimed at mitigating these challenges. Central to this plan is the revitalization of Georges Place, a previously vacant area with the potential to densify and rejuvenate the town center while strengthening its connection to the waterfront. Notably, Georges Place comprises various building typologies, including two- and three-story houses, multi-story apartment blocks, and pockets of commercial activity. Leveraging the former Council Depot, the project sought to deliver high-density urban dwellings with individual entrances while respecting the area's character.

The project was guided by four primary objectives: firstly, to create new housing at optimal densities to maximize the value of brownfield land, while providing family-friendly accommodations with individual access; secondly, to bolster the town's residential population to support its regeneration efforts; thirdly, to establish new pedestrian pathways to channel visitors towards the seafront and commercial hub of the town; and finally, to serve as an exemplar project demonstrating the efficacy of collaboration between public and private sector entities in design and construction.

The outcome of the project manifests in twelve high-quality, energy-efficient A1-rated dwellings. Despite each unit having its own entrance, the development achieves a density of 67 dwellings per hectare, ensuring sustainable utilization of valuable urban land. Notably, the incorporation of shallow, railed-front gardens and small courtyard spaces exemplifies a strategic approach to limiting the external footprint of each house. Architecturally, the design fosters passive surveillance and overlooks public areas, with splayed windows on the first floor minimizing direct sightlines between neighboring units. Additionally, residents have access to shared parking spaces situated within 'home zones,' informal play and amenity areas overlooked by the houses themselves.

A cohesive palette of self-finished materials was employed to harmonize with the area's character and sensitive context, particularly adjoining protected structures. This includes flush-pointed multi-stock buff brickwork, self-colored plaster, graphite zinc standing seam roofing, and simple repeating double-casement triple-glazed windows and doors. Further enhancements such as honed granite railing upstands, powder-coated railings and gates, and herringbone brick paving contribute to the project's aesthetic and functional appeal. Additionally, landscaping elements such as Ash trees along Kelly's Avenue and laurel hedging with lavender beds enhance the threshold spaces of each house.

Construction of the development followed a design-build public works contract, adhering to a rapid delivery program. Planning permission was submitted to the local authority's internal planning process in September 2016, followed by a tender process in February of the subsequent year, with contracts finalized by October 2017. To expedite construction without compromising quality, significant components of the project were prefabricated offsite, ensuring adherence to high standards.

The success of the development was acknowledged through its receipt of the 'Living - Housing Schemes' category award and the 'Sustainability' award at the 2019 RIAI Awards.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

La résidence Gergovie- Rehabilitation to tackle energy inefficiency and social housing

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La résidence Gergovie- Rehabilitation to tackle energy inefficiency and social housing

Mismatches Functional adequacy Diversity Climate change
Urban Design Quality Liveability Participatory processes
Ownership and tenure Protection of social housing

Main objectives of the project

The project concerns the rehabilitation of a building of 299 social housing units, built in 1962. ICF Habitat bought this apartment block in January 2013 in the framework of an acquisition-improvement and this operation will be its first major renovation. The program focuses on improving energy efficiency, restructuring the outdoor, enhancing the building’s comfort and aestheticism. By improving the thermal performance without increasing the rent, ICH Habitat La Sablière tackles its tenants’ energy precariousness.

Date

  • 2019: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Constructor: ICF Habitat La Sablière
  • Architect: A&B ARCHITECTES

Location

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

Description

ICF Housing is the housing subsidiary of SNCF (the train company in France). Born to provide housing to SNCF employees, now ICF Housing is one of the largest housing operators in France. Despite not being just a social housing operator, his aim is to develop diversified housing solutions, with affordable housing at the center of their policies. 84% of their managed housing is social housing. In 2013, they bought an old building in Gergovie street, in the 14th District of Paris.

The building aimed to be rehabilitated, together with the nearby urban space. Yet, the main goal was to achieve a energy efficient building. This was structured in three main objectives: Setting a modernized heating system, performing an insulation work on the building and coupling microgeneration with heat pumps and the use of waste energy. In fact, The collective hot water production system developed by ICF Habitat and its partners won an award at the Trophées Européen de l'Habitat Responsable in the "environmental sustainability" category. The system cuts the cost of domestic hot water production by a factor of 2, while maintaining an affordable level of rental charges. It combines economic and social performance (combating fuel poverty) with environmental performance (introducing 50% renewable energy and dividing energy consumption and CO2 emissions by 2). The system comprises two gas microgenerations coupled with four modular heat pumps designed to recover waste energy (the fumes from boilers dedicated to central heating) and cover the residence's domestic hot water needs. Operation is based on a synergy of exchanges, enabling heat gains at every stage. The cogeneration units are controlled and managed by modular heat pumps developed specifically for this coupled application. Thai changes made the building a front-runner case for the Plan Climat of Paris.

Apart from the climatic action, the project has developed other rehabilitation actions, such as the refurbishment of common areas, the creation of new bicycle/stroller and waste sorting areas, the creation of a new reception desk, the revegetation of entrances and roof, a complete overdo of outdoor areas, including a space for a shared garden, the residentialisation with access control, new intercom system and secure main entrances… Moreover, 5 apartments for people with reduced mobility were created on the first floor, with restructuring of the former entrance halls

Consultation with tenants was key to the project and led to a shared diagnosis and a program of works in line with their expectations. Through interviews at the foot of the buildings and workshops, residents expressed their wishes for the development and evolution of their living environment: dedicated areas (strollers, bicycles), household waste management, green space development, pathways, building approaches, parking organization, relationship with the square, etc. A vote enabled everyone to express their opinion on the choice of the exterior development project. Carrying out a project of this type in an occupied environment presented a certain complexity and many inconveniences. This project was made possible thanks to the strong involvement of the tenants' association, the support of local authorities and public authorities, and the professionalism and innovative spirit of our teams.

The housing units increases the capacity to offer social housing to SNCF employees. This takes on particular importance following the launch of the “housing guarantee” policy, a scheme offering newly recruited railway workers in the Île-de-France region housing at a rent commensurate with their salary level.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Quatre Camins

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Quatre Camins

Mismatches Location Functional adequacy Diversity Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations
Promotion and production Public promotion

Main objectives of the project

The objective of this initiative is to construct public rental accommodations tailored for elderly residents, featuring services specifically designed to enhance mobility and accessibility. Through adaptable rents depending on the tenant’s needs and high-quality architectural design, the building stands as a prominent model of social housing in populated urban areas like Barcelona.

Date

  • 2019: Finalista
  • 2017: Construction
  • 2015: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Architect: Ravetllat Arquitectura
  • Promotor: Ajuntament de Barcelon

Location

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

Description

Located in a unique area near Collserola's range in Barcelona, Spain, the site plan for this project resides within an urban fabric characterized by low density. This fabric consists of a mix of small-scale isolated family housing alongside larger educational and sanitation facilities. Addressing the challenge of integrating with the existing urban and topographical context was a key consideration during the project's implementation. The overarching objective was to adhere to PassivHaus criteria, emphasizing proper ventilation strategies, thermal insulation, PassivHaus windows, airtightness, and reduced thermal bridging. These measures were designed with a focus on simplicity for the inhabitants' ease of use.

The proposed solution involved an L-shaped building aligned with the streets and oriented to maximize exposure to the best views and sunlight, particularly towards the south or southeast. Access to the 44 dwellings, including two adapted units, is provided via a main core with stairs and elevators, supplemented by a secondary evacuation stair. Leveraging the topography allowed for the creation of two significant communal spaces where elderly residents can engage in outdoor activities. The first space, situated on the first floor, comprises a terrace directly connected to the garden, while the other, on the third floor, links with the laundry facilities and roof area.

This housing complex aims to accommodate senior citizens from low-income social segments on a lifetime rent basis. The rent fee is tailored to the users' personal income and the services provided (e.g., healthcare, food), reflecting their individual situations and autonomy levels. This adaptable fee, coupled with housing made for a targeted vulnerable community, constitutes the primary innovation of the project. Given this context, the architectural design prioritizes economic sensitivity towards its residents and emphasizes easy maintenance and energy efficiency of the apartments. Passive energy control measures take precedence to ensure residents' comfort and minimize administrative complexities.

Furthermore, the project seeks to foster social interaction both within and outside the building, promoting recreational activities that enhance residents' physical and mental well-being while fostering social cohesion within the neighborhood. In summary, the final project optimizes the opportunities presented by the site plan and urban context, demonstrating both an active and passive environmental attitude throughout the building's lifespan, as well as a socially conscious approach.

A significant innovation of the project lies in the implementation of passive energy control measures that not only simplify usage and maintenance but also minimize the ecological footprint, rendering the building environmentally friendly. Additionally, successfully integrating senior citizens into an established residential area represents a significant achievement. Future endeavors include incorporating passive energy control measures into standard administrative practices and extending social initiatives to other neighborhoods, thereby enhancing the quality of life for elderly residents and promoting societal diversity.

The project has won several awards, such as the Ibero-American Passivhaus Competition 2011 or the European Responsible Housing Awards 2019.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

“Apartamentos Dotacionales” in the Basque Country- The Endowment Accommodation model

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“Apartamentos Dotacionales” in the Basque Country- The Endowment Accommodation model

Mismatches Services Diversity
Policies and regulations Local policies Land Planning
Urban Design
Promotion and production Public promotion

Main objectives of the project

The Department of Housing in the Basque Country is repurposing vacant plots designated for municipal facilities as per urban planning regulations. They are transforming these spaces into residential accommodations with leases extending up to five years. This innovative initiative aims to facilitate access to the housing market for young or socially disadvantaged individuals.

Date

  • 2006: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Department of Housing in the Basque Country

Location

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

Description

Located at the north of Spain, the Basque Country faces a scarcity of both private and public rental accommodations, leading to a delayed residential emancipation for young individuals, often occurring after the age of 30. In response, a pioneering initiative was established in 2006 to repurpose plots designated for municipal facilities, thereby creating a novel housing solution known as the Endowment Accommodation model. These plots, initially earmarked for municipal use as amenities, compelled by urban planning regulations, have been transformed into temporary residential units. Thus, by using the limited options urban planning rules, the authorities managed to build on public land. Apart from developing services for the community, they offer a diverse typology of accommodation (usually less specious than a housing unit) that enriches the diversity of the project and densify cities.

This innovative approach has not only empowered numerous young people to achieve housing autonomy but has also addressed certain social housing emergencies. Over time, the demographic benefiting from this model has expanded beyond solely young individuals. Recent revisions to the governing by-laws now allow older individuals to access this housing temporarily. In exchange for participating in social rental programs by offering their own homes, older homeowners can access more suitable accommodations tailored to their needs—accessible, equipped, and modern. Simultaneously, other families can access larger housing units through social rental programs.

The evolution of this housing model towards publicly managed intergenerational co-housing represents a significant development, facilitating the release of other housing units for social needs. However, challenges persist, primarily concerning communication. Clear communication is essential both with municipal authorities, who may require clarification due to the unconventional use of land, and with the occupants of these accommodation units, who must understand the temporary nature of their lease, limited to a maximum of five years.

The Department of Housing has actively collaborated with municipal technicians and social services to address these challenges. Efforts have been made to streamline communication and transition tenants to more permanent housing solutions after the expiration of their leases. The model has also been a success in Barcelona and Madrid, showing it remains crucial for densely populated cities with limited available land, offering an innovative and much-needed solution to the housing crisis within the constraints of urban planning tools available to local authorities.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Transformation of 530 dwellings - Grand Parc Bordeaux

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Transformation of 530 dwellings - Grand Parc Bordeaux

Mismatches Price Vulnerable groups
Urban Design Quality Liveability
Promotion and production Public promotion
Ownership and tenure Protection of social housing

Main objectives of the project

As the recipient of the 2019 EU Mies van der Rohe Award, this project involved the refurbishment of three social housing buildings comprising 530 units in Bordeaux, France. Originally constructed in the early 1960s, the need for renovation arose after the possibility of demolition was dismissed. Remarkably, the transformation of these dwellings occurred while residents continued to occupy them. A key aspect of the renovation involved extending the existing space by adding a winter gardens and balconies accessible from every room, akin to a traditional house layout. This expansion not only broadened the usable space and mobility within the buildings but also redefined the quality of housing offered while improving the energy efficiency of the building envelope. This project serves as a compelling example of forward-thinking, responsible housing solutions for the future.

Date

  • 2017: Construction
  • 2019: Ganador

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: AQUITANIS
  • Architect: Christophe Hutin Architecture
  • Architect: Frédéric Druot Architecture
  • Architect: Lacaton & Vassal architectes

Location

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

Description

This project presents a bold approach to challenging the existing European housing stock from the post-war era, achieving remarkable results with minimal resources. Rather than opting for demolition, which consumes significant energy, the client recognized and endorsed the benefits of transforming three existing buildings. Through this initiative, social housing, often criticized for its built heritage, serves as a model for relevant and cost-effective transformation, turning perceived deficiencies into generous, inviting, and efficient dwellings that redefine typologies, living conditions, comfort, and aesthetics, thereby enhancing the urban residential landscape.

The transformation imbues all dwellings with new spatial qualities and living standards by meticulously assessing existing strengths to preserve and identifying areas for enhancement. The addition of expansive winter gardens and balconies to each apartment offers increased space, natural light, usability, and panoramic views. Small existing windows are replaced with large glazed sliding doors opening onto the winter gardens. Technical upgrades include renovations to bathrooms, electrical systems, and the replacement of two former elevators with a larger, more efficient one in each staircase. New access halls and improved front gardens enhance the overall environment. Throughout the construction process, all families remained in their dwellings, with no rent increase post-transformation.

The project, executed with inhabitants in residence, avoids structural interventions such as changes to stairs or floors, opting instead for additions and extensions designed for full utilization. Internally, only facility refurbishments and finishings were undertaken. The 3.80-meter extensions expand usable space and mobility, seamlessly connecting rooms to the winter gardens, akin to private semi-outdoor spaces found in houses. The energy efficiency of the building envelope is significantly enhanced by these winter gardens, serving as passive solar collectors. Focusing on economy, the budget prioritizes extensions, crucial for substantial and sustainable improvements in dwelling quality, while overall transformation costs remain within budget parameters, aligning with typical expenses for basic facade renovations, insulation, and facilities.

Construction materials and methods were selected to optimize efficiency and minimize disruption. Concrete was exclusively used for foundations, with concrete window sills removed to facilitate floor-to-ceiling openings for double-glazed sliding doors. Thermal curtains enhance interior insulation. Lightweight facades composed of transparent, corrugated polycarbonate panels and aluminum-framed glass, equipped with reflective solar curtains, provide exterior insulation. Glazed handrails line the balconies.

To expedite construction, prefabricated modules were employed, erected like scaffolding in front of the buildings. Precast slabs and columns were transported to the site and assembled into a freestanding structure using a crane. Efficient planning and scheduling allowed for a swift transformation, completing each apartment within 12-16 days: half a day for laying concrete slabs, two days for adapting the old facade, two days for installing the new facade, and 8-12 days for interior renovations.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España
Fundació Mies van der Rohe Barcelona

Circle House

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Circle House

Mismatches Climate change
Promotion and production Public promotion

Main objectives of the project

Circle House represents Denmark's pioneering venture into circular housing, aiming to disseminate knowledge and expertise on circularity principles throughout the construction sector. Positioned as a scalable lighthouse project, it offers a blueprint for sustainable construction within market parameters. Situated in the Lisbjerg Bakke district on the outskirts of Aarhus, Denmark, the project comprises 60 social housing units scheduled for completion in 2023. In 2018, a pilot program was already built on the site.

Date

  • 2018: En proceso
  • 2023: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Constructor: Realdania’s Innovation Program in Construction
  • Promotor: Danish Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Technology Development and Demonstration Program
  • Architect: Vandkunsten Architects
  • Architect: Lendager Group
  • Architect: 3XN/GXN

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Denmark

Description

Beyond its primary function of providing housing, Circle House serves as a showcase for innovative approaches to circular architecture and construction, with the overarching objective of ensuring that 90% of its materials can be reused without any loss of value, thereby advancing sustainability within the industry. The project's buildings are designed to be dismantlable, allowing their structural components to be reused with minimal loss of value. Circle House comprises a variety of building systems that can be assembled, disassembled, and reassembled into other structures while retaining their economic and aesthetic value. It encompasses three typologies: a mix of two- and three-storey terraced houses and 5-storey tower blocks, including approximately 100 m2 of communal facilities. The building density on site ranges from 65% to 80%.

The project is focused on addressing the challenges associated with circular construction, including the renewal of traditional business models and the development of legislation that supports recycling. As a result, Circle House examines value chains, business models, business cases, and regulatory frameworks. The project disseminates its findings and achievements through extensive discussions about circular construction across the industry.

Funding for the project was provided by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency and the philanthropic association Realdania. Additionally, over 30 enterprises from the Danish construction sector, spanning the entire value chain, are involved in the project. The architectural design of the building was conceived by a Collaboration Studio consisting of 3XN/GXN, Lendager Group, and Vandkunsten Architects.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Norwich Council Houses in Goldsmith Street

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Norwich Council Houses in Goldsmith Street

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

Main objectives of the project

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

Date

  • 2019: Ganador
  • 2008: En proceso

Stakeholders

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

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Norwich, United Kingdom

Description

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

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

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

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

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

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

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

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

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

Main objectives of the project

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

Date

  • 2023: Ganador
  • 2011: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Constructor: Himmerland Boligforening
  • Promotor: Aalborg Municipality

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Denmark

Description

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

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

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

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

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Apartments for graduates - Affordable housing to retain talent

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Apartments for graduates - Affordable housing to retain talent

Promotion and production Public promotion

Main objectives of the project

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

Date

  • 2015: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Poznań Social Housing Association (PTBS)

Location

Country/Region: Poland, Poznan

Description

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

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

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

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

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España