Sustainable Housing Europe (SHE) – Moving from Extraordinary to Ordinary

The SHE (Sustainable Housing for Everyone) project is a collaboration between public bodies, social housing organisations, and construction companies in Europe. It aims to make eco-friendly, affordable housing more common and practical across different climates and communities in Denmark, France, Italy, and Portugal. The focus is not on inventing new technologies, but on using existing sustainable methods in everyday housing, while involving residents in the process.
Around 600 families are already living in these homes, which use less energy and water through better insulation, solar systems, and smart design. Residents helped shape the homes and received guidance on how to reduce their energy use and bills. Despite slightly higher building costs, residents save money over time through lower utility bills.
The project also encourages participation from residents, local authorities, and builders from the start. This inclusive process has helped create useful tools, like user-friendly home guides and training sessions. In Denmark and France, residents had a strong voice in planning and design, while in Italy and Portugal, future owners helped develop the homes.
SHE has influenced local laws and standards in all four countries, encouraging more sustainable building practices and changes to building codes. The project has also sparked similar housing developments and networks promoting low-energy homes.
Environmentally, the homes reduce heating and cooling energy by up to 40%, use less water, and avoid harmful building materials. Socially, the project has improved health, comfort, and affordability for residents, while promoting walking and cycling over car use.
Overall, SHE shows that sustainable housing can be practical, affordable, and replicable turning the idea of “green living” into an everyday reality.