The Wir inHAUSer project in Salzburg, Austria, is a comprehensive refurbishment initiative focused on sustainability and social responsibility. The residential complex, built in the 1980s, was upgraded from 75 to 99 units, addressing issues such as poor insulation, high heating costs, and lack of accessibility.
Key features of the project include energy-efficient design with waste heat pumps and heat recovery from sewage water, redensification to reduce land consumption, and barrier-free design with improved natural lighting. The project also implements innovative mobility solutions, such as car-sharing models and high-quality bike infrastructure, aiming to minimize carbon footprint.
A notable aspect of Wir inHAUSer is its collaborative social process, involving tenants in planning and decision-making. The project ensured cost-neutrality for residents after renovation and provided temporary accommodation during the renovation period. Funding came from a combination of regional housing subsidies, EU funding, and additional grants for innovative processes.
The project has received multiple awards for its collaborative planning, carbon-neutral approach, and innovative mobility strategy. It has also had positive externalities on the housing sector in Salzburg, encouraging both social and private housing providers to adopt similar heating systems and mobility management strategies. The total cost of renovation was approximately €19 million, with significant subsidies received.