Like many large cities, Bilbao in Spain’s Basque region urgently needs more affordable housing.
VISESA, a public company funded by the Basque Government, recognised the potential of the Bolueta district, historically characterised by abandoned buildings and environmental degradation. Together with private investors, it purchased unused industrial land and built 1 100 sustainable, energy-efficient and affordable homes, of which ~600 are social housing units.
Using natural building materials, each project meets the highest standards in energy saving, acoustic and thermal comfort, and indoor air quality. All buildings also offer access to outdoor recreational areas. One project, built to standards that ensure optimal energy efficiency, has even been certified the world’s tallest passive house.
Reflecting broad stakeholder engagement, the work is jointly funded by VISESA, the private sector and Bilbao’s city council. Additionally, the community is actively engaged in decision making.
The Housing Solutions Platform is an initiative to identify, debate and promote innovative solutions for affordable housing in Europe by FEANTSA, Housing Europe and the Fondation Abbé Pierre.