Stephen Bates

Social housing is one of the most regulated building types, and standards meant to ensure quality often lead to standardisation, limiting experimentation. Yet, the increasing diversity in households and lifestyles demands innovation over outdated models. With thirty years of housing practice and projects across Europe—in London, Paris, Brussels, Geneva, and Vienna—I argue we must remain ‘resolutely optimistic’. Designing housing involves navigating spatial and budgetary limits, strict codes, and sustainability goals, while challenging a profit-driven industry. It also requires rethinking the individual–collective relationship and co-designing with communities to meet real needs. The rising interest in reusing and renovating existing buildings may offer a path to challenge current regulations and industry norms, enabling the change we need.