ACE general approach to the housing crisis in the EU - Architects’ contribution to affordable and quality housing

The document titled "ACE general approach to the housing crisis in the EU - Architects’ contribution to affordable and quality housing" is published by the Architects' Council of Europe (ACE). This publication addresses the ongoing housing crisis in various European countries, marked by a scarcity of affordable housing, declining quality in new constructions, and subpar living conditions in many existing homes. The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the focus on housing, revealing significant inequalities within society.

The document emphasizes that the housing crisis is intertwined with climate change and societal inequalities, necessitating a shift in focus towards affordable and quality housing as a public priority. It advocates for moving away from short-term economic gains and the standardization of housing solutions, urging a reorientation toward common good and improved quality of life. The ACE notes that despite cultural differences, there are shared challenges and ambitions across Europe, highlighting the New European Bauhaus initiative, which aims to reimagine living spaces to enhance sustainability, inclusivity, and aesthetic appeal.

Housing is a critical issue impacting politics, business, citizens, and professionals. The ACE encourages the EU to adopt a unified approach to housing that incorporates existing national policies. The document posits that housing should be recognized as a fundamental human right rather than merely a commodity, emphasizing the need for quality, accessibility, and sustainability. It advocates for improved public procurement models that prioritize quality, aligning financial incentives with long-term sustainability.

Architectural design competitions are presented as an effective means to foster quality and innovation in housing. These competitions can attract top talent and encourage solutions that meet community needs. The ACE supports the integration of digitalization, urban data, and artificial intelligence into urban governance and design processes to create transparent and inclusive systems for urban development. Streamlining permitting processes and supporting experimental housing models are also highlighted as essential for fostering innovation and reducing delays.

The document discusses the concept of decent housing, which encompasses safety, comfort, and access to basic services. It calls for establishing general criteria for housing quality, ensuring that developments contribute positively to their surroundings. The ACE emphasizes the importance of using healthy, sustainable materials in housing, recognizing their impact on inhabitants' well-being and environmental footprints.

The ACE addresses the dual challenges of mitigating climate change and adapting to its impacts within the housing sector. The document highlights the significance of energy-efficient renovations and the promotion of net/positive energy districts as key strategies. Renovating existing buildings is emphasized as a sustainable alternative to demolition, preserving cultural heritage while enhancing energy efficiency.

The publication outlines the increasing risks housing faces from climate change and geopolitical conflicts. It stresses the need for proactive policies that integrate disaster resilience into housing strategies. Informal housing and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations are also discussed, advocating for innovative solutions to ensure access to safe and dignified housing.

Ensuring equitable access to decent housing is framed as a fundamental goal. The document encourages the development of housing policies that support diverse living arrangements, social housing, and community-driven initiatives. By drawing on local culture and heritage, neighborhoods can foster social integration and resilience.

The ACE concludes by underscoring the need for a balanced approach to housing that incorporates environmental, social, and economic considerations. It expresses a willingness to collaborate with EU authorities to create high-quality housing solutions that align with the European Green Deal and the New European Bauhaus initiative, ultimately enriching Europe’s built environment.