Egaleo
Rock the Block - Integrated Participatory Roadmaps for Affordable Co-Living
Rock the Block addresses unsatisfied housing needs via interventions at the level of multi-residence blocks (‘Polykatoikia’), rather than individual households. It delivers an integrated approach comprising physical transformations, communities of care, and institutional protection.
Physical transformations involve investments to improve the green, digital, aesthetic, functional, circular and inclusive dimensions of housing. Neighbourhood community-building and upskilling is enabled by a new ‘Co-living Hub’ to provide communities of mutual support. Meanwhile, institutional protection and advice is provided via a new municipal ‘Housing Office’.
Our main challenges...
The overarching challenge to be tackled is the vicious circle created between low-quality, ageing housing stock (35% before 1960, 50% between 1961-1980, 15% between 1981-2011), and unsatisfied housing needs (rent, heating, disrepair etc.).
Fragmented housing strategies (e.g., Exoikonomo; Loan Programmes) employ ‘households’ as the intervention unit. Shared problems within blocks are continuously addressed at different speeds.
In recent research about housing (ISTOPOL), 43% of households reported that there are management issues within blocks, low levels of agreement among residents and weak mutual support, leading to degradation of both buildings and quality of life.
and proposed solutions
Integrated action plans of investments in green, functional, aesthetic, circular and inclusive housing, funded through a two-fold funding scheme for permanent interventions (up to EUR 120 000 for each block) and new equipment (approx. EUR 160 000).
Neighbourhood-community building, awareness raising, education, and upskilling connected to satisfying housing needs/expenses. Topics include: circularity; soft green skills; inclusion; and accessibility.
Establishment of new municipal institutions in the form of the ‘Co-living Hub’ to support community building and the ‘Housing Office’ providing a one-stop-shop for free housing support and advice.
Key figures
Milestones
The open call ensures equal treatment, transparency and participation
The action plans set out integrated solutions for each polykatoikia
Tender documents will form the basis of the contractual agreement with contractors
The Handbook sets out all the neighbourhood-based joint affordability solutions
Institutionalisation of certain tools of urban and housing policy
Recommendations to policymakers at local, regional and national levels
