Social Housing re-imagined
A 180-Unit Housing Scheme in Southern Poland.
High-quality social housing is fundamental to creating vibrant, resilient, and sustainable neighbourhoods. It should be recognised as a vital component of integrated urban planning in Poland, helping to shape healthy, inclusive communities. The TBS (Towarzystwo Budownictwa Społecznego) social housing model plays an important role in addressing the housing challenges faced by middle and lower-income households.
Working on a TBS scheme in Southern Poland has been a significant learning experience. The project comprises the development of 180 units in three blocks to ensure financial viability, located on an extremely challenging yet beautiful site.
The aim was to create a financially viable, environmentally sustainable housing scheme that prioritises minimising living costs and promoting good quality design and community well-being. The design process highlighted some systemic challenges that need addressing, such as the rigidity of policy around car parking provision and the inflexibility regarding fragmented urban planning policies.
This scheme incorporates:
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Cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction (80% of the scheme),
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Flexible and adaptable units,
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Well-balanced mix - 30% - 2b / 40% - 3b / 20% - 1b / 10% - 4b,
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Integration of heat pumps, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting,
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Inclusive shared spaces: a community hub, local greengrocer, and creche,
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Well-designed private amenities and shared areas,
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Active travel infrastructure: facilities for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and bicycles,
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Biodiversity enhancements,
Housing and regeneration projects are most successful when design teams comprise not only professionals but also local authorities, housing associations, and local communities, collaborating to co-produce visionary approaches that enrich lives.
Good design is a powerful tool to address major societal challenges. Our work is guided by a commitment to shaping a better, more inclusive world for current and future generations. Good design goes beyond aesthetics—it has a transformative impact on physical and emotional well-being. Good housing strategies should be integrated into the new planning policy standards across Poland. Project team: Aga, Adam Gielniak, Alex Wadas
