ABSTRACT
An innovative strategy for rehabilitating pubhc housing is being adopted in the Netherlands. The strategy, known as Open Building, distinguishes three levels of physical systems and control: the neighborhood, the base building and the individual dwelling. By organizing responsibilities this way, physical adjustments can take place on each level with reduced conflict compared to traditional approaches. Upgrading one-unit-at-a-time, for instance, is less difficult, and allows investment decisions to be targeted and timed with more precision and in smaller increments than in traditional renovation. Each dwelling can now match occupant requirements and ability-to-pay, at costs no greater than making all units the same. Lastly, an Open Building project's common elements can be upgraded without vacating the building, yielding social, economic and technical benefits for all parties.
