Living spaces, cities and regions shaping the built environment for everyone :Urban planning for and with women : peer-learning visit report

The Living Spaces visit to Vienna provided a comprehensive view of the city's approach to urban development, with a particular focus on gender-inclusive design, social housing, and sustainable practices. Over two days, a delegation of representatives from cities, regions, architects and urban planners explored various projects and engaged with local experts to understand the city's strategies and challenges. Vienna's commitment to gender-inclusive design was evident in initiatives like Frauen-Werk-Stadt I, where housing was designed with women's needs at the forefront. By incorporating features that facilitate housework and care work, promote community building, and ensure safety, the city aims to create more equitable living environments for all residents. The city government has a Municipal Department dedicated to Women’s Affairs (responsible for promoting the empowerment of women in the city). Vienna has adopted gender mainstreaming in a number of areas of city administration, but it has had the greatest impact within urban planning. The city's dedication to social housing, was also a highlight of the visit. Through public subsidies and strategic planning, Vienna has maintained a significant stock of affordable housing, providing secure and accessible accommodation for a large portion of its population. This approach has played a crucial role in creating social cohesion and addressing housing inequality. Central to Vienna's housing model is the principle of inclusivity, which seeks to create mixed-income neighbourhoods and prevent socioeconomic segregation. One notable aspect is Vienna's long-standing commitment to public housing, which dates back to the early 20th century with the emergence of ‘Red Vienna’: this historic period (1918-1934) when the Social Democratic Workers' Party of Austria (SDAP) maintained almost unilateral political control over Vienna saw the implementation of progressive social policies aimed at addressing housing shortages and improving living conditions for working-class residents. The legacy of Red Vienna continues to shape Vienna's approach to housing, with a focus on providing affordable, high-quality accommodation for all residents