THE ROLE OF RENOVATION MEASUREMENTS AND DESIGN STRATEGIES IN PROVIDING AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Abstract

New design methods are developing in response to the housing affordability issues. Strategies
that utilize more creative approaches rather than formulaic ones are now required. Renovating
existing social housing developments is one way to improve affordability. New renovation
techniques as an alternative to demolishing large social housing projects is a strategy to provide
more affordable housing. This research examines the role of renovation strategies in providing a
more cost-efficient consequence. Also, the new design principles' impact on adding quality value
rather than cost is investigated. This research aims to determine how renovation and
redevelopment of social housing provide greater affordability and quality than the demolition
and rebuilding of estates. For this purpose, the study conducts a comparative case study to assess
the renovation measurements of large social housing projects in two European cities. Findings
suggest that principles used to renovate social housing in Europe increase the chances of
improving housing affordability and quality, mainly due to the redefinition of minimum housing
standards. The comparative analysis of case studies indicates that the redevelopment of most
large-scale social housing projects has led to changes in tenure, typology, density, and delivery
methods. The most significant shift in social housing is toward public-private partnerships,
mixed-use development projects, sustainable architecture, and new living forms. After many
years of standard dwellings, some European countries began to experience a new era in social
housing design.