The Learning Labs aims to foster knowledge exchange and develop practical, scalable solutions that can be implemented across diverse urban contexts. Through a blend of international expertise, case studies, and collaborative discussions, this series will lay the groundwork for innovative urban planning strategies adaptable to cities worldwide.

During this final session we will explore the complex question of “affordable housing,” analyzing the varying definitions and implementations across different regions and governance structures. It will examine the distinction between social housing and affordable housing, and how these models can address the diverse needs of urban populations.

Session overview

Defining Affordable Housing

The term “affordable housing” can mean different things in different contexts, depending on income levels, local housing markets, and governmental policies. This discussion will focus on how affordable housing is defined in various regions, examining income thresholds, rent-to-income ratios, and the role of government subsidies. We will also explore how affordability criteria impact different social groups, including low-income families, renters, and first-time homebuyers.

Social Housing vs. Affordable Housing

Social housing and affordable housing are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct characteristics, especially in terms of government involvement, target populations, and funding mechanisms. This session will compare the two models, exploring the differences in governance, eligibility criteria, and the impact on socio-economic equity. It will also examine how these housing models address housing insecurity in various urban and rural contexts.

Regional and Governance Differences in Affordable Housing

The implementation of affordable and social housing varies widely across regions and governance structures, influenced by local policies, economic conditions, and political priorities. This discussion will compare how different regions (e.g., Europe, North America, and developing countries) address housing affordability, and how varying governance systems (centralized vs. decentralized) impact housing outcomes.

This session will provide a comparative analysis of affordable and social housing models, helping participants understand the diverse approaches to addressing the housing crisis. By examining regional and governance differences, we can explore how to make housing genuinely affordable for those who need it most, while also ensuring that housing policies promote social equity and long-term sustainability.

Speakers

Robert Temel is a Vienna-based architectural and urban researcher whose work focuses on the social, cultural, and political dimensions of building and city-making. Robert bridges design and policy through research, consultancy, and advocacy. His work centres on housing, cooperative planning, and building culture, promoting collaborative and sustainable urban development. Temel is spokesperson of Plattform Baukulturpolitik, teaches at TU Wien’s Research Unit of Housing and Design, and has chaired the housing cooperative WoGen. Through projects such as Baukultur für das Quartier and Ein Stück Stadt bauen, he explores how process-oriented approaches can improve spatial quality and social value in contemporary urban environments.