Lived Solidarity: Housing Co-operatives

The article "Lived Solidarity: Housing Co-operatives" by Manuel Lutz discusses the importance and benefits of housing co-operatives as a viable solution to the ongoing housing crisis in Europe. Published by Assemble Papers, the work highlights how housing co-operatives can address both affordability and quality of life, making them a significant point of interest for those focused on sustainable housing solutions.

Housing co-operatives are non-profit entities that pool resources from members to provide affordable housing options. Recognized by the United Nations as a means to promote economic viability alongside social responsibility, these co-operatives have gained traction in addressing global housing challenges. Co-operatives prioritize the use value of housing over profit, demonstrating their potential to create affordable living conditions without sacrificing quality.

Emerging in the 19th century as a response to housing crises, housing co-operatives were initially formed by workers and craftsmen. In modern times, particularly in German-speaking countries, they are acknowledged as a third pillar of housing policy alongside rental and home ownership. Approximately 10% of rental housing units in Germany and 5% in Switzerland are occupied by co-operative members, providing homes for around 5 million people. In Austria, this figure rises to 15% of all households.

Housing co-operatives are predominantly urban phenomena, with significant representation in cities like Vienna and Zurich, where they constitute nearly a quarter of the housing stock. However, the German federal government has recently recognized their importance in achieving affordable rents, pushing for renewed focus in a market that had stagnated for years. Despite this potential, many existing co-operatives are preoccupied with maintaining aging buildings rather than expanding their housing stock.

While traditional housing co-operatives focus on maintaining existing properties, new smaller co-operatives are emerging, often initiated by local groups aiming for sustainable and affordable housing. These new entities, however, face challenges such as rising construction costs and limited access to affordable land, particularly in urban areas. Although Germany offers some funding options, these remain exceptional rather than standard, complicating the establishment of new co-operative housing.

Successful examples like Spreefeld in Berlin and mehr als wohnen in Zurich showcase how co-operatives can effectively utilize state resources and member contributions to create high-quality living spaces. These projects emphasize participatory planning, shared facilities, and diverse housing types that cater to various lifestyles, going beyond the traditional nuclear family model. They embody principles of democracy, equality, and solidarity, which are crucial in fostering a stable community.

Housing co-operatives demonstrate how collective efforts can lead to effective and sustainable housing solutions. By balancing individual and community needs, they offer a model for future housing developments aimed at inclusivity and affordability. As Europe grapples with housing challenges, the co-operative model presents a viable path forward, advocating for community-centric living that prioritizes quality, accessibility, and social responsibility.