Financing and management models as a design tool for circular housing projects

Abstract

Can financing and management models for housing projects guide the design of more circular and inclusive housing solutions? A growing housing crisis in Europe intensifies the pressure on traditional support measures, limiting access to equitable housing. But what if environmental solutions could aid in answering the housing problems our cities are facing? Circular strategies, facilitating reuse and recycling, have the potential to enhance long-term affordability. However, their adoption is hindered by a lack of understanding of the correlation between specific circular design choices and socio-institutional parameters, including management and financing models. This research applies the qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) method to study 22 existing housing projects. The method allows to establish connections between three circular design choices (reuse, two types of adaptable design) and the distinct characteristics of housing projects. Data was collected through site visits, workshops and semi-structured interviews with architects, housing-cooperatives, policymakers, and housing companies in European countries. As a result, the study provides recommendations for designers, policymakers, and project initiators and managers. Furthermore, we identified missed opportunities for linking circular design strategies to project characteristics. The results could assist in making better-informed design choices related to specific contexts.