Learning from co-housing initiatives — Between Passivhaus engineers and active inhabitants

The resource titled "Learning from co-housing initiatives — Between Passivhaus engineers and active inhabitants" presents a comprehensive analysis of co-housing initiatives in Europe, focusing on their potential to contribute to sustainable housing and energy transition. Authored by Lidewij Tummers from Delft University of Technology, the document underscores the importance of self-managed housing in addressing contemporary challenges such as accessibility, affordability, and sustainability.

Co-housing has re-emerged as a viable response to the current housing crisis in Europe, where traditional housing markets are increasingly inaccessible to low- and middle-income households. Residents often come together to create and manage housing projects that not only prioritize affordability but also emphasize mutual care, shared responsibility, and low-impact living. These initiatives challenge conventional notions of housing by integrating social, environmental, and economic goals.

The research identifies co-housing projects as significant models for reducing energy consumption and integrating renewable energy within the housing stock. The study reveals that while the applied technologies in co-housing are not necessarily innovative, the collaboration among residents leads to effective decision-making regarding energy and resource management. This collaboration positions residents as “prosumers,” effectively bridging the gap between energy production and consumption.

The document emphasizes that the design and engineering of co-housing projects significantly influence their success. It highlights the necessity for an integrated approach that combines technical and social aspects to achieve optimal energy performance. The research calls attention to the role of engineers in facilitating this integration and emphasizes the need for collaborative design processes that include input from residents.

Co-housing initiatives face various institutional barriers that can hinder their realization. The study identifies inconsistencies in planning and housing policies across different European countries, which often treat co-housing as a minority interest rather than a viable alternative to mainstream housing. The authors argue for a shift in perspective that recognizes residents as active participants rather than mere beneficiaries of housing solutions.

The resource discusses how co-housing aligns with broader sustainability goals, particularly in relation to the UN's New Urban Agenda. Co-housing initiatives are seen as instrumental in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable urban development by creating inclusive and resilient living environments. The study suggests that integrating co-housing into urban planning frameworks could enhance social cohesion and environmental responsibility.

Looking ahead, the research proposes that co-housing could serve as a model for future housing policies, emphasizing the importance of self-organization and community engagement. The authors call for more empirical studies to assess the actual impact of co-housing on sustainability and energy performance, thereby providing a clearer understanding of its potential as a scalable solution for housing challenges in Europe.