Re-structured: Transformation strategy for mass-housing blocks on the example of ERA buildings in Buitenhof, Delft

The omnipresence of the aging mass-housing estates in Europe has created a new frontier for innovative approaches in architecture, particularly in the architecture of renovation. This new movement has the capacity to address two major aspects of contemporary architecture: the role of architects in catering for sustainable development (ecological, economic, and social development) and, more importantly, addressing the needs of changing society (e.g. from monologue to digital). A close look at masshousing projects in the Netherlands reveals the enduring impact of the doctrines in practice at the time of their construction. These principles, predominantly influenced by structuralism, present compelling opportunities for the transformation of selected buildings. Accordingly, a main goal of this graduation project is to study the housing demand of current, multi-cultural, Dutch (in a larger scope: European) society and therefore to explore possibilities for sustainable development, and for improving the living condition in the existing, post-war, masshousing complexes. To do this, this research examines the impact of mass-customization by means of a new, adaptable to the dweller housing structures, introduced in the existing urban fabric with the aim of supporting the development of sustainable communities. From the field survey and publications discussing social problems in the mass-housing neighbourhoods, it can be observed that the existing post-war mass housing model no longer caters to the needs of current and new users. The potential of structures to deal with this shift will be studied through the thorough analysis of relevant and successful mass housing renovation precedents. Through this, research conclusions will be drawn as to the extent and type of design intervention in 3 scales: individual dwelling unit, housing block and local urban settlement (i.e. within 3-4 adjacent blocks)