The pioneering Vienna Model of Housing is currently the subject of a month-long exhibition, taking place from April 1-25 across three Dublin venues. The public exhibition is a joint partnership between the Dublin City Council, Housing Agency, City of Vienna and features a number of seminars and events to introduce a wider debate on housing futures in Dublin and nationally. The exhibition concluded its run in CHQ in Dublin’s docklands on Monday, April 8, and will be hosted by the Rediscovery Centre, Ballymun, until Saturday, April 13, before moving to Richmond Barracks in Inchicore, from April 15-25.

Sustainable, high-quality residential development

The Vienna Model of Housing is internationally regarded for its continued achievement of sustainable, high-quality residential development using a cost-rental approach that in effect delivers housing for all. The model adopts a general needs approach to housing provision and delivers secure, long-term, high-quality and innovative public rental housing in well designed, adaptable and inclusive neighbourhoods. Accompanying seminars will support discussion of integral elements of the Vienna Model such as managing population density, public housing as a sustainable solution and cost-rental. Identified as a significant component within the Viennese Model, cost-rental works to achieve sustainable prices, disrupting the link between price and market values and moderating the boom-bust cycle. This is credited with helping to create housing at a cost that people can afford. [caption id="attachment_49492" align="alignright" width="300"] Brendan Kenny, Dublin City Council, centre; Helene Schauer, MVD Austria; and David Silke, Housing Agency. Photo: Arthur Carron[/caption] Brendan Kenny, deputy chief executive of Dublin City Council, said: “Our plans for future housing investment must adopt a holistic view capable of fostering a socially integrated society living in sustainable and affordable housing. "These are key concerns for Dublin City Council and we are excited to welcome the Vienna Model exhibition and our high calibre speakers over the coming weeks to share their insights on how we continue to make Dublin a great place to live in.

'Basis for an inclusive, thriving, healthy society'

"The Vienna Model of Housing is the living proof that demonstrates how providing high-quality, affordable housing is the basis for an inclusive, thriving, healthy society.” John O’Connor, CEO of the Housing Agency, said: “The Housing Agency is delighted to co-sponsor the Vienna Model exhibition and the associated seminars. Our intention, when we originally thought of bringing the exhibition to Ireland, was to show what has been achieved in Vienna and to share it widely. “We believe the exhibition and associated events provide a timely opportunity to consider in detail a successful housing model that has contributed to making Vienna such an attractive and well-loved city for both its citizens and for visitors. "As we face the considerable challenge of providing affordable housing, for many of our own citizens, there is much to learn from our European counterparts and from Vienna, in particular.” Dr Dáithí Downey, head of housing policy research and development at Dublin City Council, said: “We are looking forward to a robust discussion on all Ireland’s housing futures and this exhibition and programme will support engagement with communities on important matters of sustainable urban development, citizen participation, the use of public spaces and art and how to better use our existing housing stock.” Kathrin Gaál, executive city councillor for women’s issues and housing, City of Vienna, said: “Providing affordable housing in Vienna has been a political priority since 1919.

Vienna rents and land prices not solely determined by market

"Compared to other cities, rents and land prices in Vienna have not solely been determined by the market. Vienna's allocation guidelines ensure that higher income earners and the middle class can access the public housing sector. “That is what’s special about Vienna. What makes us most proud is that you cannot tell how much someone earns simply by looking at their address.” The Vienna Model of Housing Exhibition is open to the public and will be hosted in the Rediscovery Centre in Ballymun from April 10-13; and Richmond Barracks from April 15-25. Free seminars and free children’s workshops will take place across all venues. Register for seminars and workshops online at www.HousingModelDublin.ie.