The city of Vienna is a strong example of progressive values within the social housing sector.  It is a city with much to teach with regards to the structure, function, and follow through of affordable living.  

The study visit to Vienna comprised two days, the 14^th and 15^th of September, of keynote address, insightful discussions, tours, and field visits. Participants gained in depth knowledge on the economic and legal structure of social housing in Vienna, as well as on the cultural development of residential buildings within the city. During the first day, Vienna’s largest public housing company Wiener Wohnen presented the history of public housing in Vienna.

This knowledge was complimented by physical examples shown from more than four field visits. City politics in Vienna incorporate inclusive city planning. These inclusionary politics are demonstrated through easy access to affordable housing within the city.  All residents with an income below €80,000 have access to social housing.  This incorporates a huge swath of the city’s population.  Because of this, neighborhoods more easily exemplify mixed-income housing.  The city’s prioritization of affordable housing allows social housing to be open for a vast majority of residents.  Additionally, smart and sustainable living is a core concept to Vienna’s municipality, as well as to the local social and nonprofit housing associations.

The Director of Urban Planning Thomas Madreiter presented the cities view on the urban growth and sustainable policy. Click HERE for the presentation.

Those not able to attend can still view social housing structures in Vienna through the following photos and videos:

Have a look at a rooftop view of collective housing in Vienna.

Go inside a collective housing unit.