New Affordable Municipal Apartments in Vienna Now Open for Applications

Vienna's latest municipal housing initiative has launched, offering 102 new affordable apartments in the Wehlistraße 161A building located in the city's second district. Starting from March 31, interested residents can apply for these modern housing units designed to promote community living.

The new building, which will be ready for occupancy in a few months, features attractive living spaces equipped with balconies or terraces. In addition, it boasts two communal rooftop gardens designed for urban gardening as well as a shared courtyard area intended to foster neighborly interactions.

Characterized as a 'Greenhouse,' this environmentally-friendly structure incorporates advanced features such as thermal insulation, energy-efficient building components, district heating, and solar panel installations. These elements not only enhance the building's sustainability but also contribute to energy conservation and climate protection, continuing Vienna's century-long tradition of social housing.

Local officials have emphasized the importance of this project in addressing the need for affordable housing in Leopoldstadt. The district's leader highlighted that these modern apartments are designed to ensure a high quality of life and provide essential facilities for harmonious community living.

The new residential complex is designed as a 'vertical garden,' incorporating greenery throughout its facade, which will include climbing plants and living walls. Each apartment will also have access to planter boxes, and the roof will feature additional green spaces. This thoughtful landscaping not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to cooling the building in summer and improving the local microclimate.

Energy-wise, the complex is classified as a low-energy building, equipped with thermal insulation, district heating, energy-activation components, and photovoltaic systems, ensuring a comfortable yet resource-efficient living environment.

Key features of the new municipal housing project include:

• 102 affordable apartments ranging from 35m² to 100m², each with balcony or terrace access
• Intensively green facades and roof gardens
• Two rooftop gardens dedicated to urban gardening
• Shared courtyard area designed for community gatherings
• Community room with kitchen facilities
• Energy-efficient construction with thermal insulation
• District heating and energy-activation components
• Photovoltaic systems
• Underground parking with 47 spaces
• Approximately 200 bike parking spots

This new generation of municipal housing represents a significant expansion of Vienna's affordable housing options. The 'Gemeindebau Neu' program complements the existing subsidized housing initiatives, ensuring residents benefit from reasonable rents and secure, indefinite rental agreements. Importantly, no initial investment is required from tenants.

As of now, there are 28 municipal housing projects in various stages of construction or planning across Vienna, with 13 already completed, providing new homes for approximately 13,000 residents.

For those interested in applying for one of the new apartments, applications are open to residents with a valid Vienna housing ticket who demonstrate a genuine housing need. More information and the application process can be found on the Vienna Housing Advisory website.

The new apartments are expected to be ready for occupancy in the early autumn of 2025.