Longevity in Social Housing : Reimagining Social Housing through Lifecycle-Based Design

Abstract

Throughout Europe, social housing is at a critical turning point, as its role and stability as a housing sector and provider of affordable housing is weakened due to declining government support. While the supply of social housing stock shrinks and declines in quality, new developments often lack future-vision to respond to both emerging and long prevailing issues that challenge the built environment. In this context, this thesis examines how social housing can be reimagined through the lens of longevity. Lifecyle-based design, which encompasses circular building principles, and considerations of environmental and social sustainability, is explored as a potential approach.

An extensive literature review combined with an analysis of case studies established the theoretical background of the two main research topics - social housing and lifecycle-based design. This process resulted in a collection of design strategies, which aims to guide designers in planning long-lasting social housing. The strategies are based on the principles of sustainability, circularity, social equity and affordability. Finally, the strategies are tested and illustrated in a prototypical design, which explores the developed framework in a conceptual manner.

The thesis identified promising opportunities for integrating lifecycle-based design in social housing and highlighted potential mutual benefits. By basing the design of social housing on the objective of longevity, social housing can be established as an essential part of future equitable housing landscapes. Simultaneously, creating a pioneering housing sector can inspire and accelerate other housing forms to develop towards a more sustainable future.