Demo Groningen

Apartment buildings in Europe, especially those built in the sixties and seventies, are facing a significant problem. Many were constructed as affordable homes for families, but now, after about fifty years, they are old and outdated. During InCUBE, various innovations are being applied to learn how buildings can be renovated in an industrial manner. The best practices and lessons learned will be used in renovating decorative buildings across Europe.

The Dutch housing association Lefier owns eight similar tall apartment buildings that are in need of thorough renovation. Lefier has reserved €12.5 million to renovate one of these buildings, with the majority (€9.7 million) going towards energy-saving changes. This building is being used by InCUBE as a pilot project. For the remaining seven buildings, Lefier has allocated €70 million, with €54 million focused on energy improvements. The renovation of one building is expected to take about 15 months.

The privately-owned apartment complex targeted by InCUBE is located in the Zeeheldenbuurt. Originally built in 1966 for families, the property is now used for student housing. It is quite large, with a total floor area of 9,800 square meters and over 265 students living in shared apartments. However, compared to newer buildings, it has poor energy efficiency, and the apartments need a complete makeover, including floors, windows, kitchens, and bathrooms. This renovation also involves better insulation, ventilation, and lighting to make the living spaces more comfortable. Originally designed for families, the apartments are being redesigned to accommodate 2-3 students each, with each group sharing a living room and kitchen.