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The Hühnerbühl settlement in Horgen is being demolished as it’s beyond economical repair. Despite central heating replacing older systems, the building is in too poor condition for renovation. Issues include thin walls causing noise problems (hearing neighbors), and inability to meet modern standards like accessibility.

Tenants are being forced to relocate. Karin Randegger and her partner René Ineichen lived in the settlement for 27 and 20 years respectively. They liked living there, but the building’s state of disrepair, like damp walls, was apparent.

Finding replacement housing is tough and expensive. The couple faced a 15-month search and encountered high rental costs (over CHF 2,000/month) that they struggle to afford after paying CHF 1150 for their current apartment.

The article is accompanied by photos of the settlement,highlighting the simple,aging kitchens and the overall housing complex before demolition.

How does the cooperative model address the issue of long-term housing security for residents compared to traditional rental options?

Horgen’s Cooperation Initiative: New Cooperative Building Replaces Hühnerbühl Settlement

The Hühnerbühl Transition & The Need for Modern Housing Solutions

For decades, the Hühnerbühl settlement in Horgen, Switzerland, served as a vital, though increasingly outdated, housing solution. Originally intended as temporary accommodation,it evolved into a long-term residence for a diverse community. Though, the aging infrastructure and evolving needs of Horgen’s residents necessitated a forward-thinking approach. The Horgen cooperation Initiative was born from this need – a project focused on replacing Hühnerbühl with a modern, enduring, and community-focused cooperative building. this initiative represents a significant investment in affordable housing and community development within the Canton of Zurich.

Understanding the Cooperative Model in Switzerland

switzerland boasts a strong tradition of cooperative housing (Wohnbaugenossenschaften). These aren’t simply rental properties; they are collectively owned by their residents. This model offers several key advantages:

* Affordability: Cooperative housing typically offers lower rents than comparable private market options.

* Community Focus: Residents have a direct say in the management and development of their housing.

* Long-Term Security: Membership provides a secure, long-term housing solution.

* Democratic Governance: Decisions are made democratically by the members.

The Horgen initiative leverages this established framework to create a truly resident-centric living environment. This differs substantially from traditional rental or ownership models, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and shared obligation. Keywords: Swiss housing cooperatives, Wohnbaugenossenschaften, affordable housing Switzerland, cooperative living.

the New Cooperative Building: Design & Features

The new cooperative building,located near the former Hühnerbühl site,is a testament to modern,sustainable design.Key features include:

* Energy Efficiency: The building utilizes solar panels, geothermal energy, and high-performance insulation to minimize its environmental impact. It aims for a MINERGIE certification, a Swiss standard for energy-efficient buildings.

* Accessibility: All apartments are designed to be fully accessible, catering to residents of all ages and abilities.

* Community Spaces: The building incorporates shared spaces such as a communal kitchen, laundry facilities, a workshop, and a garden, encouraging social interaction.

* Variety of Apartment Sizes: The building offers a range of apartment sizes, from studios to family apartments, to accommodate diverse household needs.

* Green Spaces: Landscaping prioritizes native plants and creates a welcoming green environment for residents.

The architectural design prioritizes natural light and ventilation, creating a pleasant and healthy living environment. The project also incorporates rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems, further reducing its environmental footprint. keywords: sustainable architecture, energy-efficient building, MINERGIE certification, accessible housing, community living spaces.

Resident Involvement & The Relocation Process

The relocation of residents from Hühnerbühl was a carefully managed process, prioritizing their needs and concerns. A dedicated team worked closely with each resident to:

1. Provide Data: Regular meetings and individual consultations were held to explain the project and address any questions.
2. Offer Support: Assistance was provided with finding choice temporary accommodation during the construction phase.
3. Prioritize Re-Housing: Former Hühnerbühl residents were given priority access to apartments in the new cooperative building.
4. Financial Assistance: Support was offered to help residents navigate the financial aspects of the relocation.

This resident-focused approach was crucial to the success of the initiative, ensuring a smooth transition for all involved. The cooperative structure itself further empowered residents, giving them a voice in the design and management of their new homes. Keywords: resident relocation, community engagement, affordable housing support, social housing Switzerland.

Funding & Partnerships: Making the Initiative a Reality

The Horgen Cooperation Initiative was a collaborative effort, relying on a combination of funding sources and partnerships:

* Municipal Funding: The municipality of Horgen provided significant financial support for the project.

* cantonal Subsidies: The Canton of Zurich offered subsidies for affordable housing initiatives.

* Cooperative Membership Fees: Membership fees from residents contribute to the ongoing operation and maintenance of the building.

* Private Investment: A portion of the funding came from private investors committed to social impact investing.

Key partnerships with local construction companies, architects, and social organizations were also essential to the project’s success. This collaborative approach demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in addressing critical housing needs. Keywords: social impact investing, public-private partnerships, affordable housing funding, housing subsidies Switzerland.

long-Term benefits & Future Implications

The Horgen Cooperation Initiative serves as a model for other communities facing similar housing challenges. The benefits extend beyond providing affordable housing:

* Strengthened Community: The cooperative model fosters a strong sense of community and social cohesion.

* Sustainable Living: the building’s sustainable design reduces its environmental impact and promotes responsible resource management.

* Economic Development: the project created local jobs during the construction phase