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.

Dublin City Housing Regeneration To Passive-Grade & Community Hub

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Dublin City Housing Regeneration To Passive-Grade & Community Hub

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

Main objectives of the project

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

Date

  • 2019: Construction

Stakeholders

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

Location

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

Description

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

Le Chaperon-Vert (Îlot 5)

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Le Chaperon-Vert (Îlot 5)

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

Main objectives of the project

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

Date

  • 2019: Construction

Stakeholders

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

Location

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

Description

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Main objectives of the project

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

Date

  • 2021: Construction

Stakeholders

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

Location

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

Description

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

Palazzo del Carbone - Student Housing

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Palazzo del Carbone - Student Housing

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

Main objectives of the project

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

Date

  • 2014: Construction

Stakeholders

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

Location

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

Description

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

Cenni di cambiamento

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Cenni di cambiamento

Mismatches Price Functional adequacy Services Diversity New family structures
Policies and regulations Public-private initiatives
Financing
Urban Design Services and infrastructure Environments Quality Public-private initiative
Promotion and production Self-management Self-promotion Cooperatives
Ownership and tenure Rental and temporary tenure

Main objectives of the project

Cenni di Cambiamento stands as a notable social housing development in Milan, distinguished as Europe's larges residential architecture project featuring a self-supporting wooden structure. This innovative housing complex embodies a vibrant community ethos, incorporating self-management initiatives, a variety of housing unit types, and pioneering energy-efficient buildings.

Date

  • 2017: Ganador
  • 2013: Construction
  • 2009: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Architect: Studio Rossi Prodi
  • Promotor: Fundazione Housing Sociale
  • Redo

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Italy, Milan

Description

In 2009, the FIL1 Fund secured three areas owned by the municipality of Milan for the development of experimental residential buildings for rent, including the site on via Cenni. This international competition aimed to explore architectural excellence, rethink residential construction forms, and introduce innovation and social elements. Among over 140 submissions, Studio Rossi Prodi Associati's project was selected by the jury. The construction was made in 2013.

The Cenni di Cambiamento complex, featuring four 9-storey towers, represents one of Europe's pioneering residential projects constructed with wooden load-bearing structures. Recognized for its energy efficiency, the groundbreaking structure received the Legambiente award in January 2014 for its environmentally friendly innovation. Additionally, it was honored at the Gyproc Italia Trophy in Saint Gobain in 2014 and nominated for the Mies Van der Rohe Award in 2015. Despite the extensive use of wood, the visible finishes both internally and externally resemble those of conventional buildings, owing to the advantages of the X-Lam construction technology.

Central to Cenni di Cambiamento is the active involvement of residents in organizing neighborhood activities and managing communal spaces. The Fondazione Housing Sociale spearheaded the community engagement process, culminating in the establishment of the Officina Gabetti 15 (OG15) association in 2015. This association aims to foster various activities and community gatherings, including solidarity purchasing groups, creative workshops, sports, recreational, educational, and cultural events for members and the wider community.

Located on the ground floor, Cenni di Cambiamento hosts a plethora of amenities, including a cafeteria, physiopilates center, diner, art therapy space, multifunctional areas for art, music, and theater, a neuropsychiatry clinic, a socio-educational center for individuals with disabilities, a day center for minors in challenging situations, a playroom, a music school, and a coworking space. Moreover, it facilitates neighborhood trading activities to support small entrepreneurs, artisans, and traders, fostering collaborative business development in a quality and affordable space.

A significant portion of cultural activities also takes place at Cascina Torrette di Trenno (via Giuseppe Gabetti 15), an old building integrated within the complex. Acting as an urban cultural hub, it hosts various events and activities such as concerts, cinema screenings, festivals, and children's programs throughout the year.

Furthermore, Cenni di Cambiamento offers a diverse range of housing typologies, including foyers managed by a cooperative. This residence model, widespread at an international and European level, provides young people with temporary shared housing solutions at sustainable costs. The foyer project, developed by the Social Housing Foundation and managed by DAR=casa, accommodates 27 young individuals aged 18 to 30, offering not just cohabitation but also guidance towards personal and professional autonomy through orientation services and training opportunities.

Cenni di Cambiamento is a project promoted by the Lombardy Real Estate Fund managed by Redo, a benefit company dedicated to creating quality and economically sustainable living spaces. Guided by principles of social responsibility, environmental sustainability, inclusion, and functionality, Redo's interventions range from affordable housing projects to urban regeneration initiatives. The Social Housing Foundation serves as the social technical advisor, overseeing the structuring phase and collaborative placemaking of the project.

To be a tenant, income requirements are established, following the rules for social housing in Milan. Moreover, one has to be resident in the city or its surroundings.

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.

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.

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.

JAspern - Cohousing in Vienna

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JAspern - Cohousing in Vienna

Promotion and production Self-management Self-construction Cooperatives

Main objectives of the project

In Seestadt Aspern, located in Vienna, certain areas were designated for construction groups, leading to the implementation of a cohousing project by the JAspern construction group. This project consists of 18 residential units and stands out as one of the pioneering participatory housing initiatives in Seestadt Aspern. Noteworthy features include adherence to the highest energy standards, akin to passive house levels, as well as exceptional user comfort. Furthermore, the project embraces an innovative socio-cultural approach to community living and boasts a comprehensive building ecology concept, making it a well-rounded success.

Date

  • 2014: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Architect: POS

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Vienna
Country/Region: Austria, Vienna

Description

Vienna boasts a rich history of social housing, yet experiences of cohousing are relatively uncommon. JAspern represents a departure from the norm, paving the way for new community-building approaches. Remarkably, this project is not led by a traditional developer but rather by a collective of 18 pioneering families who collaborated closely with architects and constructors to bring their vision to life.

The building itself adheres to rigorous PassivHouse standards, ensuring exceptional quality. Notably, features such as point-supported ceilings, a flexible facade grid, and spacious room heights of 2.8 meters enhance adaptability in terms of usage, apartment layouts, and room sizes. Urban ecological considerations are also prominent, with provisions for urban gardening and extensive green roof areas. At the heart of the building lies a vibrant roof terrace equipped with a meeting lounge, a launderette, and spaces for urban gardening, fostering daily activities such as gardening, grilling, socializing, and celebrations.

Furthermore, JAspern served as a testing ground for the quality assurance tool "monitor aspern seestadt," underscoring its commitment to ongoing improvement and innovation. The building features a central ventilation system with highly efficient heat recovery and individual volume flow control in each apartment. Energy supply is bivalent, utilizing both district heating and heat pumps.

Facilitating community engagement is the JAspern salon, a versatile multifunctional space standing at four meters high and optimized acoustically and climatically. This space, capable of accommodating up to 60 people, serves as a hub for both the house community and external individuals, hosting a diverse range of activities and events. Additionally, the building incorporates amenities such as a communal workshop, conveniently accessible via a ramp from the courtyard, and a bicycle garage located in the bustling basement area.