SETTING THE SCENE OF THE URBAN REVOLUTION

The Eyes Hearts Hands approach was tested in seven lighthouse districts experiencing different socio-economic and infrastructural challenges.

WORKING MODELS OF AFFORDABLE AND ADEQUATE HOMES

The “lighthouse districts” were cities that led the path towards sustainable, beautiful and inclusive cities. Generally, they all did the following:

a) adopted digital, smart energy efficient solutions, circular and modular renovation toolkits and eco-design, used renewables as energy sources to improve energy efficiency and the sustainability of the district.

b) promoted people-centred business models that favoured energy communities, common spaces, co-investment in renovation, and fostered frameworks to empower residents. Examples were co-investment and resident-owned services, integration of circular economy approaches, as well as innovative financial models that promoted social innovation, access to health and social services, created opportunities for social economy enterprises and improved social inclusion thus fighting energy poverty.

c) experimented co-creation and engagement practices in districts, engaging several disciplines (creative, green, digital, mobility) as a link to the New European Bauhaus.

Denmark

Høje-Taastrup

The creation of a Citizens Energy Community centered around the social housing area of Gadehavegård

Greece

Kozani

Regaining public spaces with the restoration of school buildings and the Agios Dimitrios park.

Belgium

Zoersel

A new multifunctional library building that strengthened social cohesion in the district.

Portugal

Maia

Intervening right in the heart of the city: the social housing neighbourhood of Sobreiro.

Turkey

Izmir

The rich, multi-cultured and ever-changing historical area of Kemeralti.

Croatia

Osijek

A brand-new and sustainable cultural centre for the residents of Osijek.

Italy

Biodistretto

Inclusive social innovation practices for a renovated health and social care district of Nepi.