Social, affordable, and co-operative housing in Europe Published in October 2020

This report, published by the Housing Agency, focuses on social, affordable, and co-operative housing solutions across Europe. It compiles case studies from six countries: Switzerland, Austria, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark, showcasing innovative housing designs that address various societal needs, including affordability and sustainability.

The report emphasizes the critical role of sustainable housing in enhancing community well-being and environmental protection. It notes that well-designed housing contributes not only to individual living standards but also strengthens local communities and promotes economic stability. The authors argue that the challenges of providing affordable, high-quality housing are common across Europe, requiring collaborative efforts from various stakeholders, including government bodies and housing associations.

Switzerland has a rich tradition of rental housing, with 42.5% of its population renting homes. The report features eight case studies, including the Hagmannareal affordable housing project in Winterthur, which focuses on creating community spaces and reducing environmental impact through innovative design. The majority of tenants rent from non-profit housing organizations, which provide well-regulated, low-cost options that encourage architectural excellence.

Austria's social housing sector is characterized by significant state intervention, with public funds supporting housing co-ops and ensuring affordability. The report highlights various projects, such as the Maierhof subsidized housing in Bludenz, which emphasizes ecological sustainability and community integration. Approximately 60% of Vienna's households live in subsidized apartments, underscoring the importance of state involvement in providing affordable housing.

France's social housing system, known as HLM, is one of the largest in Europe, managing around 4.6 million units. The report outlines various case studies, including the Maréchal Fayolle housing complex in Paris, which integrates modern design with communal spaces to foster interaction among residents. The French government mandates that cities allocate a portion of their housing as public housing, further emphasizing the importance of affordable living options.

In Germany, public intervention in housing policy is limited, with a focus on publicly subsidized housing. The report features projects like the Spreefeld cooperative in Berlin, which aims to create inclusive communities through a mix of housing types. The trend toward flexible living arrangements and community spaces is highlighted, showcasing how architectural innovation can meet diverse social needs while maintaining affordability.

The Netherlands has a robust social housing sector, with 2.7 million rental properties. The report discusses various projects, such as Holland Park West in Diemen, which aims to create a mixed residential area that fosters community interaction. The emphasis on shared spaces and eco-friendly designs reflects the Netherlands' commitment to sustainable living, even amid challenges of declining social housing availability.

Denmark's housing landscape is shaped by a strong partnership between the government and housing associations, focusing on sustainability and social cohesion. Projects like the UN17 eco village in Copenhagen aim to address all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals through innovative building practices. The report illustrates Denmark's efforts to create affordable housing solutions that enhance community engagement and environmental responsibility.

The report serves as a valuable resource for understanding the diverse approaches to social, affordable, and co-operative housing across Europe. By highlighting successful case studies and innovative designs, it offers insights into how various nations are tackling the pressing issues of housing affordability and sustainability.