immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Tag: soziale Durchmischung

  • Densification changes cities

    Densification changes cities

    The study “Construction activity and displacement”, carried out by ETH Zurich on behalf of the Federal Office for Housing, shows that over the last two decades, settlement development in Switzerland has clearly been inward-looking. New housing is being built in urban areas, primarily through replacement construction and the conversion of industrial and commercial zones, rather than on greenfield sites. In cities such as Basel, a quarter of new flats were built on former industrial sites.

    More flats despite fewer new builds
    Although the number of newly built residential buildings is falling slightly, the net number of flats continues to increase. This is due to the efficiency of densification. In Basel, Geneva and Lausanne, up to twice as many new units are being built per demolished flat than in Bern or Zurich. Densification is thus becoming the central lever for creating living space in densely populated areas.

    Who is being displaced?
    The downside of densification can be seen in the social composition of the neighbourhoods affected. In Zurich in particular, long-term tenants often lose their homes due to demolition or total refurbishment. Those who have to move out often have a significantly lower income, up to 40 per cent less than the average. In contrast, households with above-average incomes move into new builds.

    Migration and income as a risk factor
    The study also reveals structural disadvantages. Asylum seekers, refugees and people of African descent are disproportionately affected by displacement. This means that structural densification particularly affects those who are most dependent on affordable housing and who often can no longer find it in the same municipality. Nevertheless, a considerable proportion of those affected, up to 64 per cent, manage to stay within their municipality.

    Cities in transition – socially balanced?
    From a spatial planning perspective, densification is sensible and necessary. However, it not only changes the cityscape, but also the social structure of neighbourhoods. The challenge in the coming years will be to shape change in such a way that it does not lead to social division, but to mixed, resilient cities with living space for everyone.

  • Statistics on non-profit housing construction 2024

    Statistics on non-profit housing construction 2024

    The proportion of non-profit housing throughout Switzerland is around four per cent, but is significantly higher in urban areas such as Zurich at over 20 per cent. Non-profit property developers are not profit-orientated. They set rents based on actual costs and do not make a profit. This approach helps to make housing more affordable and fulfil the constitutional mandate to promote affordable housing.

    Lower rents compared to the market
    Rents in non-profit housing are on average eight to 20 per cent lower than in conventional rental properties. For example, a four-room flat in the non-profit segment costs an average of CHF 1359, while a comparable flat on the general market costs CHF 1647. These cost advantages make a significant contribution to easing the burden on tenants and promote social mixing.

    Efficient use of living space
    The overall use of living space is lower in non-profit housing construction. While the per capita consumption of one- to two-bedroom flats is nine per cent higher than the general stock, it is 25 to 38 per cent lower for larger flats, such as those with four to five rooms. Overall, residents of non-profit flats use 22 per cent less space, which contributes to the more efficient use of living space.

    A look into the future of non-profit housing
    The brochure “Statistics on non-profit housing construction 2024” provides detailed data and valuable insights into this important segment. Infographics and tables provide a clear overview of the development and importance of non-profit housing. They show how this housing model contributes to the creation of affordable and sustainable living space. A central basis for a socially just housing policy in Switzerland.