The Europahaus Project, Langenhagen

The Europahaus Project in Langenhagen, near Hannover, Germany, is an award-winning example of low-cost housing that meets high social, ecological, and architectural standards. Built on a 7,000 m² site, it contains 64 flats in 16 semi-detached, two-storey houses, plus a communal building. The homes were built with prefabricated wooden frames and brick cladding, which cut costs to about 70% of typical German social housing. Funding came from a mix of state subsidies, bank loans, and the private Gundlach Housing Company.
The design encourages community life and environmental responsibility. Cars are kept outside the residential area, and green spaces, gardens, and fruit trees are integrated throughout. Ground-floor flats have private gardens, and first-floor flats have balconies with planters. Residents share a communal building with a kitchen, laundry, guest rooms, and space for a day nursery and homework support. Families use it for social events, and tenants help manage it through a self-governed council.
The project uses eco-friendly materials, 40% higher insulation made from recycled paper, rainwater collection, and a small cogeneration plant that cuts carbon emissions to 40% of normal. This setup lowers both energy use and long-term costs.
Residents include low-income families, refugees, and the previously homeless, creating a diverse community of 13 nationalities. Children’s play areas are designed for easy supervision, and the cooperative environment has eliminated vandalism and reduced rent arrears.
The Europahaus Project has inspired debate and imitation across Germany and Europe, showing that affordable housing can be sustainable, socially integrated, and cost-effective. Its success lies in strong partnerships between local government, research institutions, and the private sector, proving that high-quality social housing can be built at lower cost while fostering community life.