ABSTRACT
Vienna’s socio-cultural tradition as an open and inclusive city is reflected in its collaborative co-creation housing programme, where future tenants are part of the design process and receive support and subsidies from the city. Nothing seems to be more fascinating than the metamorphoses of rapidly growing cities in the 21st-century — the so-called metropolitan century. Specifically, based on Vienna’s experience and tradition as an open and inclusive city, the essay aims to highlight several examples of collaborative planning that form part of Vienna’s success as a highly livable and affordable metropolis with strong community ties. Vienna’s historical and exceptionally strong social contract is widely regarded as one of the main reasons for the city’s exceptional long-term success in international rankings as the world’s most livable city. Open cities are young and dynamic places that can embrace positive urban change for the social benefit of its citizens.
