Potential and challenges of new living concepts
The realisation of innovative forms of housing such as hall living or self-converted lofts offers new possibilities for the use of living space and promotes communal living. The study "Building and living communally", conducted on behalf of the Federal Office for Housing (BWO), sheds light on the framework conditions, success factors and challenges of these housing models.
The focus is on self-built residential units, which are often built in large halls and are shared by groups or individuals. Residents attach importance to sustainable and individualised living, foregoing excessive private space and sharing communal areas instead.
The projects analysed in Zurich and Bern show that these types of housing use significantly less living space per person than the Swiss average. The high degree of flexibility in the interior design allows for individual customisation, but also entails high time and financial costs.
Legal framework and challenges
Clear but flexible framework conditions and supportive guidance from property developers and authorities are crucial for the successful implementation of these concepts. Building law hurdles and financing issues in particular require customised solutions to make such projects economically viable.
Innovative niche solutions with potential
Although these forms of communal living currently represent a niche, they offer exciting approaches for a more sustainable and diversified use of living space. However, their long-term potential for the affordable housing market remains to be seen.
The study was conducted by the OST and FHNW universities of applied sciences in collaboration with the BWO, the Solidarity Fund Foundation, the Migros Culture Percentage and other partners. It is part of the research focus areas “Affordable housing” and “Adapting the housing stock to changing needs”.