Deepening our understanding of affordable housing

Affordability requires moving from fragmented to integrated perspectives

Cost reductions can be obtained by synergies that emerge when the required functionality of a housing structure integrates all aspects of materials, energy use, but also financing over the whole life-cycle.

Affordability recommends viewing from single buildings to ensembles of buildings

Extending the scope of a building to include its interaction with its neighborhood reveals cost-cutting options by reducing mobility needs, saving commuting time, and enabling mutual support in a localized energy system.

Affordability needs shifting from simple to integrated performance indicators

The shift from fragmented to integrated designs therefore requires performance indicators that reflect this comprehensive view. Essentially, this adds periodized CAPEX and OPEX cost components that ultimately show up in the user costs for tenants and owners.